SEM/FIB Technician

Staff – Non Union

Job Category
Non Union Technicians and Research Assistants

Job Profile
Non Union Hourly – Research Assistant /Technician 4

Job Title
SEM/FIB Technician

Department
Technical Operations Quantum Matter Institute Faculty of Science

Compensation Range
$28.05 – $32.95 CAD Hourly

Posting End Date
November 10, 2022

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the Posting End Date above.

Job End Date

Aug 31, 2024

Job Summary

The Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute (Blusson QMI) at UBC is a world-leading venture into research of systems and phenomena explicitly involving quantum mechanics. One of its core areas of strength is research into various condensed matter systems that employ sophisticated electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.

The Quantum Materials Electron Microscopy Centre (QMEMC) located at UBC/QMI is looking for an experienced specialist in SEM/FIB and sample preparation. This state-of-the-art centre is supporting not only quantum material research but a wide range of projects both with academia and industry. The candidate will be responsible for the preparation and SEM analysis of samples involved in those projects, including preparation of ultra-thin lamella for TEM analysis employing atomic imaging and ultra-high resolution momentum-resolved Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy techniques.

Under the direction of the QMEMC Director, the SEM/FIB Technician will take the lead in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a Tescan SEM/FIB, as well as a sample preparation lab. The successful candidate will provide training and support to researchers, maintain and optimize the SEM/FIB operation, work closely with equipment vendors, develop and maintain training procedures, develop and implement advanced techniques, assist and advise users on specimen preparation and data analysis, provide proof-of-concept service, and engage in research activities. This includes working with researchers to frame problems and the approach to their resolution, developing the optimal equipment and techniques to explore and find answers to these, and mentoring students and other researchers.

Organizational Status

The SEM/FIB Technician reports to the QMEMC Director and provides support to other researchers as requested.  The incumbent makes decisions regarding design, construction and maintenance of research equipment, plans and oversees the operation of complex research equipment, and provides mentoring and coaching to students and other researchers.
Work Performed

Research

• Operate, maintain, and manage a Tescan Amber SEM/FIB with an Omniprobe, EDS, EBSD and vacuum transfer module
• Design, modify, and perform experiments using the SEM/FIB
• Advise and collaborate with users to develop and optimize sample preparation protocols
• Prepare lamella for transmission electron microscopy measurements both with FIB and mechanical polishing
• Oversee the development of the SEM/FIB and sample prep lab and increase their capabilities
• Develop scripts and hardware to support projects using the SEM/FIB
• Perform EDS and EBSD analysis
• Collaborate with users to prepare sample analysis reports and figures for publication
• Support the lithography of apertures for TEM and EELS (holographic apertures, slits, etc)
• Maintain a clean and safe working area in the sample preparation lab, adhere to all safety procedures and rules
• Identify research opportunities into new equipment that will allow researchers to broaden the scope of their work and prepare and write proposals to rationalize allocation of funds to the project
• Work closely with vendors in obtaining equipment quotes for various projects
• Research and develop new experimental techniques that will increase and maintain scientific excellence and prepare reports on these, and other, research activities
• Depending on qualifications, assist in the maintenance and operation of an aberration corrected Nion UltraHERMES200 STEM optimized for W-q experiments

Facilities Operation

• Ensure that maintenance plans are in place and implemented for the SEM/FIB and sample prep equipment, working with suppliers and contractors when necessary
• Troubleshoot complex equipment and systems problems as needed
• Keep detailed maintenance records for various systems
• Develop and maintain operating procedures and usage guidelines for various systems
• Prepare official reports and maintain statistics regarding QMEMC and UBC performance related metrics for grant proposals and other university related administrative requirements

Fostering Learning

• Provide training, instruction, and advice to students, researchers, and external users related to SEM/FIB and sample preparation
• Prepare and present SEM/FIB and sample preparation workshops as required
• Attend tradeshows and other technical events

Undertake other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of the position.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
To retain its standing as a UBC Global Research Excellence (GREx) Institute, Blusson QMI must demonstrate its potential to move from internationally excellent to globally exceptional, both in terms of academic impact and translational impact. Ultimately, errors in judgment that lead to the inability to complete research projects in a timely and effective manner could mean that Blusson QMI will not meet the required deliverables to secure additional funding and/or revenues. Poor decisions or errors in judgment may also result in unreliable results in experiments and research, experiments being postponed or cancelled, or major damage to property and safety of persons.
Supervision Received
Works with minimal supervision from QMEMC Director. Is called upon to use technical knowledge to resolve complex problems that have been previously encountered and have established methods, principles or guidelines for resolution. Receives supervision from QMEMC Director on unusual problems or on matters which depart significantly from established procedures.
Supervision Given
Provides ongoing training, support, advice, and mentoring to students and other researchers.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• University degree or technical certificate in Electron Microscopy, Material Science, or Physics
• Minimum of 4 years experience in SEM/FIB, thin lamella preparation for TEM, and overall sample preparation
• Demonstrated ability to creatively solve problems
• Computer skills, including use of office suites and web apps
• Proven awareness of safe work practices
• 6 years experience in thin lamella preparation with SEM/FIB
• 3 years experience in sample preparation using mechanical polisher or similar techniques
• 2 years experience in lab management such as a sample preparation lab
• 2 years experience in EDS and EBSD
• Experience with user training
• Experience working in a user facility and writing scientific reports in collaboration with users
• Experience with scripting for electron microscopes
• Experience preparing apertures using a SEM/FIB
• Basic knowledge in TEM