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Electron Microscopy Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Electron Microscopy information

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$10.7K

$69.1K

How much do electron microscopy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for electron microscopy in Virginia is $68,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is electron microscopy?

Electron microscopy is a technique that uses a beam of electrons to create highly detailed images of specimens at the nanometer scale. Unlike traditional light microscopes, electron microscopes can resolve much smaller structures, making them invaluable for research in biology, materials science, and nanotechnology. There are two main types: transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which looks through thin samples, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which images surfaces. Electron microscopy is widely used for analyzing cells, viruses, metals, and other materials that require very high magnification and resolution.

What are electron microscopy jobs?

Electron microscopy involves creating high-resolution images of specimens. Electron microscopy technicians use an electron microscope in a laboratory setting to make these images. As a technician in this specialized field, you work with both biological and non-biological specimens, and your duties focus on creating images for research or medical diagnosis purposes. While using the electron microscope, you track and prepare samples and ensure that the resulting pictures meet the needs of the researcher or medical professional who plans to use them. Your responsibilities include maintaining the microscopes, handling samples, and performing other lab tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electron microscopy specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electron Microscopy Specialist, you need a solid background in materials science, biology, or a related field, supported by relevant academic qualifications or laboratory experience. Familiarity with electron microscopes (such as TEM and SEM), sample preparation techniques, and image analysis software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate data, troubleshooting equipment, and collaborating effectively with research teams.

What are some common challenges faced by electron microscopy professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Electron Microscopy professionals often encounter challenges such as handling delicate specimens, maintaining instrument calibration, and interpreting complex image data. Working in this role requires a high attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols to avoid sample contamination or equipment damage. Collaboration with researchers and technicians is frequent, as teams work together to optimize imaging parameters and troubleshoot technical issues. Staying updated on new imaging techniques and regularly participating in training can help professionals overcome these challenges and contribute more effectively to research projects.

What is the difference between Electron Microscopy vs Transmission Electron Microscopy?

AspectElectron MicroscopyTransmission Electron Microscopy
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in materials science, biology, or related fields; specialized training in microscopy techniquesSimilar credentials; often requires additional training in sample preparation and electron optics
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial labsHigh-vacuum environment, specialized labs for detailed imaging
UsageGeneral term for electron-based imaging techniquesSpecific type of electron microscopy focused on thin sample imaging

Electron Microscopy is a broad field encompassing various techniques, including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). TEM is a specialized form of electron microscopy used for high-resolution imaging of thin samples. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, TEM technicians focus specifically on preparing and operating TEM instruments for detailed internal structure analysis.

More about Electron Microscopy jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia?

For Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Electron Microscopy jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Electron Microscopy job openings:

Electron Microscopy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electron Microscopy job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,132 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position that focuses on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and defect characterization in materials.
The research conducted in Prof. Zhou's laboratory focuses on advanced in-situ/ex-situ electron microscopy and spectroscopy, materials for quantum information science, and phases and phase transitions in ferroic materials.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and execute novel in situ and ex situ electron microscopy studies of thin film heterostructures and devices for quantum computing
  • Publish results in high-impact journals
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering or a closely related field, with a dissertation emphasizing electron microscopy
  • Extensive experience with TEM and complementary techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
  • Strong expertise in TEM specimen preparation (e.g., focus ion beam (FIB) milling and conventional methods)
  • Experience in electric-field mapping (using electron microscopy and related techniques) or in EELS is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in written and spoken English for effective communication with collaborators and sponsors
  • Excellent analytical and record-keeping skills, with strong attention to detail.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086399. Attach the following documents: a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box .
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Review of applications will begin on August 24, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment, and the appointment may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions about the position, please contact Lin Zhou, Associate Professor, at linzhou@virginia.edu .
For questions regarding the application, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered at University of Virginia. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
Job Profile
J0267 - Research Associate - 12 Month
Career Stream and Level
No Career Stream-No Level
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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