Department Overview
The purpose of the Electron Microscopy Technologist Trainee position in the Electron Microscopy section is to create a training opportunity that will provide technical assistance for high quality patient care testing services that support the overall patient care activities of OHSU Hospitals and Clinics and the Department of Pathology. The Histology Trainee will learn to prepare and process samples for electron microscopy, perform testing using a transmission electron microscope, review and compile images for interpretation by faculty, and perform maintenance of equipment and supplies under the supervision of a Electron Microscopy Technologist. Trainee must meet all training objectives and requirements in one year.
Function/Duties of Position
Prepares and processes samples for electron microscopy:
- Receives and processes all tissues for electron microscopy. This includes fixation, dehydration, clearing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
- Performs processing using manual, automated processors and/or microwave processor.
- Using light microscopy identifies cellular structures pertinent to diagnosis and trims block accurately to retain these structures for viewing at the ultrastructural level of testing.
- Works interactively with the faculty to determine appropriate and optimal sampling strategy and EM approach for individual cases.
- Communicates effectively with all customers including physicians, nurses, coworkers and outside clients.
- Communicates clearly promoting excellent customer service and teamwork.
Performs testing using a transmission electron microscope system, following written procedures:
- Views, identifies and photographs diagnostic features at the ultrastructural level.
- Produces computerized digital images and stores images in designated database.
- Assesses quality of specimen preparation and adjusts preparatory procedures as necessary.
Maintenance of equipment and supplies
- · Performs standard maintenance on the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and chiller.
- · Contacts the service contract provider as soon as possible when repairs on the TEM or chiller are warranted.
- · Monitors the lab operation, minor repairs and maintenance including the ultramicrotome and other equipment.
- · Performs inventory and orders supplies, according to established procedures.
- · Prepares and provides specific EM fixative to other laboratories and outside facilities.
Other Duties as Assigned
Required Qualifications
- Training position must meet these qualifications within 12 months of start date.
- Bachelor’s degree in chemical or biological field
- One years of experience performing electron microscopy including ultrastructural electron microscopic examinations and digital imaging in a clinical or research pathology program.
Preferred Qualifications
- Completed university level microscopy courses.
- Background in biological TEM.
- Background in histology
- Experience using Beaker AP
- Certified Electron Microscopy Technologist (CEMT)
Additional Details
Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation; working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature control problems in building.
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu