Part-Time Technical Support Specialist – Light Microscopy Core Facility
Brandeis University
About the Role
Are you a dependable, curious researcher who loves hands-on lab work and optics? Brandeis University is seeking a Part-Time Technical Support Specialist to join the dynamic Brandeis Light Microscopy Core Facility.
This half-time role focuses on assisted-use imaging—running cutting-edge experiments on behalf of internal Brandeis researchers as well as external academic and industry client partners. Working closely under the direction of the Facility Manager, you will operate world-class instruments, train users, maintain equipment, and support day-to-day facility operations.
Why Join Us?
Health & Wellness Benefits: Unlike many part-time positions, this 0.5 FTE role is eligible for university health insurance benefits.
Flexible Scheduling: We value schedule consistency and offer flexibility in structuring your 17.5 hours per week—whether you prefer working a few hours across 5 days or concentrating hours across 2–3 consistent days.
Professional Growth: Cross-train with our Facility Manager, participate in technical workshops, network with regional imaging communities, develop skills across advanced imaging platforms.
What We Are Looking For (Key Traits)
Dependability & Rigor: Consistent, reliable performance in sample handling, data management, and instrument care.
A Growth Mindset: A genuine excitement to learn new microscopy modalities, advanced software workflows, and operational best practices.
Proven Lab Experience: Comfortable working in a wet lab environment with biological samples.
Hands-on Microscope Proficiency: Solid practical familiarity with light microscopy instruments and digital image acquisition.
Core Responsibilities
Assisted-Use Imaging & Data Delivery (35%):Perform assisted-use imaging for external industry, academic, and internal Brandeis researchers.
Handle biological samples, operate imaging systems, execute first-pass image processing, and deliver organized, documented data.
Maintain precise project records to ensure high-quality results and client satisfaction.
User Training & Technical Support (25%):Provide consultation, basic-to-intermediate training, and technical support to core users.
Demonstrate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) following facility guidelines.
Assist users with image acquisition strategies and introductory processing/analysis (e.g., ImageJ/Fiji).
Instrument Maintenance & Quality Control (20%):Perform routine maintenance, quality control checks, and performance assessments across facility instruments.
Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs with instrument manufacturers/service engineers.
Maintain SOPs for data quality and reproducibility; assist in supervising student workers.
Facility Operations & Administration (15%):Manage user booking accounts, process training requests, and track usage data.
Maintain operational spreadsheets, inventory, and periodic usage reports.
Ensure user compliance with lab safety, risk assessment, and health protocols.
Outreach & Professional Development (5%):Participate in professional workshops, facility tours, and imaging network events.
Support outreach activities for academic and industry users while cross-training on facility systems.
