Research Professional 4-Imaging Research - Department of Neuroscience

About The Job

The University Imaging Centers (UIC) is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Spatialomics Lead Technician to join our team of specialized imaging professionals. As a core facility network serving internal and external researchers, the UIC operates across three campuses—Jackson Hall, Snyder Hall, and the Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building. This role sits at the intersection of histology, advanced optical imaging, and genomics. The position is a critical component of the UMN Spatialomics Initiative. The primary responsibility of the Spatialomics Technician is to provide end-to-end laboratory services, validation, and advanced instrumentation operation for multi-omic spatial profiling platforms. Key equipment includes the Bruker/ NanoString GeoMx DSP, Bruker/NanoString CosMx SMI and the Lunaphore COMET system. The successful candidate will work closely with the Spatialomics Biomedical Core, UMGC, MSI and diverse research clients to ensure high-quality spatial biology data generation.

Essential Responsibilities

• 45% Execute complex multiplexed immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and in situ hybridization protocols tailored to spatial genomics and proteomics assays. Collaborates with other researchers or teams to design experiments and studies that utilize spatial imaging techniques to address specific research questions. Validate customized tissues and tissue microarrays (TMAs). Handle and dilute chemical reagents, probe libraries, and multi-fluorophore antibody panels with strict adherence to quality control and aseptic techniques.
• 35% Operate, calibrate, and maintain high-end spatial biology platforms and multi-spectral slide scanners. Monitor sample runs on cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics and spatial proteomics systems, ensuring optimal operational parameters and troubleshooting technical system errors. Collaborate directly with vendor support teams and the UIC to ensure equipment functionality, routine biosafety compliance, and efficient data pipeline routing. Manage laboratory inventory, monitoring consumption of proprietary consumables, reagents, and slide kits.
• 20% Manage the intake and scheduling process for investigators submitting projects to the UMN Spatialomics Initiative. Serve as preceptor or technical resource, training advanced core users on basic slide preparation guidelines or equipment usage. Liaise with others to analyze results and draw conclusions based on the resulting data, contributing to scientific publications and presentations Ensures the accuracy and reliability of image data and analysis methods, implementing validation processes when necessary Will work as a team to optimize machine learning, pattern recognition, and data mining to analyze data May be responsible for maintaining hardware, software, and instrumentation, and/or using technology to create imaging SOPs for research

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: