Extensive experience with TEM and complementary techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray ...
Extensive experience with TEM and complementary techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray ...
Research Associate in Chemical Engineering
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$57K - $60K/yr
Techniques that will be applied include glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and custom transport measurements.
Research Associate in Chemical Engineering
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$57K - $60K/yr
Techniques that will be applied include glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and custom transport measurements.
Scanning Electron Microscopy information
What is scanning electron microscopy?
A Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) job involves operating and maintaining an SEM instrument to analyze the surface structure and composition of samples at high magnification. Professionals in this role prepare specimens, adjust imaging parameters, and interpret results for research, quality control, or failure analysis. These jobs are common in industries like materials science, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and nanotechnology. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of electron microscopy principles are essential for success in this field.
What does a typical day look like for someone working in scanning electron microscopy?
In a Scanning Electron Microscopy position, a typical day often involves preparing samples, calibrating and operating the SEM instrument, capturing high-resolution images, and analyzing microstructural features. You may collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, or quality control teams to interpret results and support research, development, or production goals. Documentation of findings and the upkeep of laboratory equipment are also regular responsibilities. Many SEM professionals spend part of their time troubleshooting instrumentation issues and optimizing imaging parameters to achieve the best results. The work can be a blend of independent tasks and collaborative efforts, depending on the size and focus of your organization.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in scanning electron microscopy, and why are they important?
To excel in a Scanning Electron Microscopy role, you need a background in materials science, physics, or a related field, along with hands-on experience operating electron microscopes and analyzing microstructural data. Familiarity with SEM instrumentation, image analysis software, and sample preparation techniques is often required, and certifications in microscopy can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for producing accurate analyses, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary research or industrial teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Scanning Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia?
The most popular types of Scanning Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia are:
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For Scanning Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scanning Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Scanning Electron Microscopy jobs in Virginia are:
Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering
Charlottesville, VA • On-site
Full-time
Re-posted 12 days ago
University Of Virginia rating
7.9
Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
210th of 623 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:
QUALIFICATIONS:
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 .
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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