Research Assistant 2

McGill University View all jobs

  • Canada
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Please refer to the job aid for instructions on how to apply.If you are an active McGill employee (ie: currently in an active contract or position at McGill University), do not apply through this Career Site. Login to your McGill Workday account and apply to this posting using the Find Jobs report (type Find Jobs in the search bar).Primary Responsibilities:FIB-SEM Operation & Advanced Techniques
  • Operate FIB-SEM systems for site-specific milling, cross-sectional analysis, and 3D tomography.
  • Prepare TEM lamellae and perform micro/nano-scale modifications using ion beam techniques.
  • Collaborate with researchers on experimental design and execution.
SEM Operation & Imaging
  • Operate SEM systems for high-resolution imaging and elemental analysis (EDS).
  • Prepare samples for SEM, including mounting, coating, and cleaning.
  • Optimize imaging parameters and acquire high-quality images for diverse research applications.
Ultramicrotomy & Sample Preparation
  • Prepare ultra-thin sections (50–100 nm) of biological or material samples for TEM analysis using ultramicrotomes.
  • Embed, trim, and orient samples in resin or other media for optimal sectioning.
  • Apply staining and coating techniques as required for electron microscopy.
User Support & Training
  • Train graduate students, postdocs, and visiting researchers in ultramicrotomy and electron microscopy techniques.
  • Provide technical guidance on sample preparation strategies and imaging best practices.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
  • Perform routine maintenance and calibrations on ultramicrotomes, SEM, and FIB-SEM instruments.
  • Diagnose and resolve minor operational issues.
Documentation & Compliance
  • Analyzes and interprets research data and disseminates the results. Writes research reports.
  • Writes theoretical or methodological reports, papers or articles related to research activities.
  • Maintain detailed records of sample preparation, imaging procedures, and instrument logs.
  • Ensure adherence to institutional safety protocols and proper handling of chemicals and biological materials.
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
  • Education:
  • Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Materials Science, Biology, Physics, Engineering, or related field.
  • Specialized training in ultramicrotomy and electron microscopy preferred.
  • Experience:
  • Hands-on experience with ultramicrotomes, SEM, and FIB-SEM in a research or academic setting.
  • Familiarity with TEM, SEM and AFM sample preparation and microfabrication processes.
  • Skills:
  • Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail for ultramicrotomy.
  • Strong understanding of electron/ion beam interactions with materials.
  • Proficiency in imaging software and data analysis tools.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills for multidisciplinary research environments.
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.Knowledge of French and English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # 4 on a scale of 0-4.Hourly Salary: $42.30Hours per Week: 35 (Full time)Location: Strathcona Anat&DentSupervisor: ProfessorPosition Start Date: 2026-04-26Position End Date: 2027-04-27Deadline to Apply: 2026-04-20This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement.McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, .

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