What are the responsibilities and job description for the Scientist, Cryo-EM position at Spectrix Analytical Services, LLC?
Scientist, Cryo-EM
Job description
The BPO Scientist, Cryo EM:
· Prepare, optimize, and QC proteins and antibody fragments for Negative staining and cryo‑EM studies.
· Execute Negative Staining and cryo‑EM sample preparation workflows: Vitrobot grid freezing, optimization of buffer/detergent/lipid composition, concentration and buffer exchange strategies.
· Operate and maintain cryo‑EM support instruments; assist with on‑instrument checks and routine maintenance tasks.
· Perform cryo‑EM data collection with internal and external facilities (Glacios/Titan Krios or similar); ship / receive samples and manage sample logistics.
· Perform basic cryo‑EM data handling tasks (preprocessing, motion correction, CTF estimation) or coordinate such processing with the structural biology team and computational partners.
· Coordinate with protein sciences team and occasionally conduct protein–protein and protein–ligand interaction assays relevant to cryo‑EM projects (analytical SEC, SPR, SEC‑MALS, Refeyn, etc.) and integrate results into decisions about sample preparation.
· Maintain accurate experimental records, ELNs, sample metadata, and datasheets in internal databases; ensure traceability and reproducibility of samples and results.
· Communicate results clearly and promptly to multidisciplinary project teams; escalate technical issues and propose practical optimizations to improve throughput and success rates.
· Operate independently in a lab environment and adhere to lab culture for cryo‑EM and protein operations.
· Bachelor’s OR Master’s degree with ≥2 year cryo-EM experience; OR a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline.
· Practical experience with cryo‑EM sample preparation (Vitrobot or equivalent) and familiarity with single‑particle cryo‑EM workflows.
· Experience performing routine protein QC assays (SDS‑PAGE, Western blot, DLS, analytical SEC, mass spectrometry or similar).
· Strong laboratory record‑keeping and sample metadata management skills.
· Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
· Prior experience with membrane protein purification, proteoliposomes, or nanodisc assembly.
· Exposure to cryo‑EM data collection platforms (Glacios, Titan Krios) and basic image preprocessing (motion correction, CTF estimation).
· Experience with biophysical interaction assays (SPR, SEC‑MALS, Refeyn).
· Track record of contributing to publications or technical reports; ability to present findings to project teams.
· Strong attention to detail, organization, and quality control mindset.
· Problem solving and experimental troubleshooting under time constraints.
· Collaborative communicator who can translate experimental results into next‑step actions for project teams.
· Ability to multi-task effectively and maintain reproducible workflows.
*Spectrix offers flexible schedules, competitive salaries, and a committed work environment to its employees; the company provides automatic benefits of life insurance and short and long term disability insurance. Optional benefits for full time employees include health, dental, and vision insurance, college loan assistance, and an employer matched retirement savings plan. Spectrix is not a placement agency.
Spectrix is an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Spectrix complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.
- Spectrix is participating in the E-Verify program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (phone number: 888-897-7781, and website: www.dhs.gov/E-Verify).
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
Experience:
- Cryo-EM: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $35 - $45