Senior Microscopy Optical Imaging Research Engineer

Senior Microscopy Optical Imaging Research Engineer

Redwood City, CA

To develop a dynamic, integrated view of biological systems in health and disease, the Chan Zuckerberg Institute for Advanced Biological Imaging (CZ Imaging Institute) aims to push forward the development and application of new imaging technologies over the next 10 to 15 years. CZ Imaging Institute researchers will collaboratively develop breakthrough biological imaging systems centered around grand challenges that push the boundaries of what we can see and measure to obtain deep insights into the architecture of complex biological systems at the molecular level.

As an extension of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s Imaging program, the CZ Imaging Institute ( will create breakthrough technologies — hardware, software, biological probes, data, and platforms — that will be made available to the scientific community and adopted worldwide through a combination of direct access to the Institute, open sharing of advances, and commercial partnerships.

The Opportunity

The Chan Zuckerberg Imaging Institute is seeking a hands-on Senior Microscopy Optical Engineer who thrives in an exploratory environment, embraces complex technical challenges, and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of what is possible in optical imaging. A successful candidate will drive conception, design and development of innovative optical systems, aiming to generate breakthrough imaging technology for the life sciences.

What You'll Do

• Lead and execute experimental optical projects from concept to prototype, utilizing rapid prototyping techniques.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and external partners to develop innovative optical solutions for imaging challenges.
• Design and build custom optical systems, components, and experimental setups tailored for specific research applications.
• Perform optical simulations, modeling, and analysis to validate new concepts and approaches.
• Explore novel imaging techniques and technologies, including but not limited to: multi-spectral imaging, computational optics, holography, and non-linear optics.
• Document research outcomes, prepare reports, and present findings to the team and external stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in optics and imaging technologies, identifying opportunities for novel applications within our nonprofit research objectives.
• Strengthen relationships with strategic suppliers and other CZI and Biohub entities to complement the in-house platform teams.
• Collaborate closely with CZII leadership to understand mission drivers, integrating emerging mission trends into product roadmaps.
• Coordination with internal teams with some interaction with external suppliers.

What You'll Bring

• PhD (or Master’s Degree with relevant complementary experience) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• At least 3-5 years post-PhD relevant professional experience in optical design, prototyping, experimentation ideally in R&D settings.
• Strong knowledge of microscopy fundamentals, techniques, and equipment.
• Expertise in optical fabrication and assembly, lenses, mirrors, sensors, lasers and other optical components.
• Deep understanding of imaging technology, microscopy, spectroscopy, and relevant camera systems.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and work independently on unconventional and high-risk technical projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new technological challenges.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and working across multidisciplinary teams.

Nice to have -

• Experience working in a startup environment.
• A passion for working on cutting-edge projects with a high scientific impact.

The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Network requires all employees, contractors, and interns, regardless of work location or type of role, to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, including a booster vaccine dose, if eligible, by their start date. Those who are unable to get vaccinated or obtain a booster dose because of a disability, or who choose not to be vaccinated due to a sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance must have an approved exception prior to their start date.

Compensation

New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. To determine starting pay, we consider multiple job-related factors including a candidate’s skills, education and experience, market demand, business needs, and internal parity. We may also adjust this range in the future based on market data. Your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range during the hiring process.

What We Provide

• Resources to collaboratively develop breakthrough biological imaging systems that push the boundaries of what we can see and measure.
• An environment where nothing is considered impossible, where bold and creative thinking are the norm, and where a collaborative culture allows teams of people from multiple disciplines to accomplish more than any single person can achieve alone.
• Access to collaborators and resources at partner organizations in the CZ Biohub Network and beyond.
• Competitive compensation and benefits commensurate with experience.

We offer a robust benefits program that enables the important work employees do every day. Our benefits include healthcare coverage, life and disability insurance, commuter subsidies, family planning services with fertility care, childcare stipend, 401(k) match, flexible time off and a generous parental leave policy. In addition, we honor our commitment to career development and our value of scholarly excellence through regular onsite opportunities to learn from the world's leading scientists.

The CZ Biohub Network is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity of thought, ideas and perspectives. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive organization where all employees feel inspired and know their work makes an important contribution. Therefore, we provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit resumes/CVs through this website or directly to managers. The CZ Biohub Network does not accept unsolicited headhunter and agency resumes. The CZ Biohub Network will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with the CZ Biohub Network.

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