The Rockefeller University

Organization Overview

Neurobiological discoveries have been fueled in recent years by rapid development of optical imaging tools. At the Rockefeller University, the Laboratory of Neurotechnology and Biophysics has developed a wide portfolio of advanced neurotechnologies that allow for large-scale and whole-brain optical recording and manipulation of neuroactivity at high spatiotemporal resolution across model systems. As such, there is major untapped potential for biological impact by making these and other commercially-yet-unavailable neurotechnologies more broadly available to the biological user community at Rockefeller University and beyond. Founded in 2022, the Miller Brain Observatory (MBO) is generously supported by a gift from the Elizabeth R. Miller Family. The core mission of the MBO is to refine, disseminate, and provide long-term support of cutting-edge neuroimaging tools to maximize biological impact and facilitate the transition of advanced commercially unavailable optical neurotechnologies to address user-defined, neurobiological questions. This is being accomplished by offering advanced brain imaging tools; generating and maintaining a critical mass of long-term optical and computational expertise to ensure continued innovation, continuity, and management of knowledge; and providing extended support of the user base.

Overview

The Optical NeuroImaging Engineer will play a pivotal role in construction, refinement, maintenance, and application of custom optical neuroimaging technologies to various neurobiological projects in collaboration with the research community at the University. This position requires both a strong emphasis on custom optics and microscopy instrumentation development and hands-on experience with characterization and application of such systems in vivo. This role presents an ideal opportunity to work with cutting-edge optical technologies in a dynamic and collaborative research environment. The engineer will directly contribute to the development and refinement of bespoke optical setups and their integration into neurobiological research projects, ensuring that these systems meet the evolving needs of MBO userbase.

Responsibilities

• Construction, refinement, and application of advanced optical systems and custom microscopy setups to support collaborative neuroimaging experiments.
• Serve as a technical resource for optics and custom instrumentation within the MBO, providing hands-on guidance and experimental support to collaborators.
• Serve as a contact person to get firsthand user feedback for iterative improvements of instruments and processes for discussion with the MBO team.
• Troubleshoot and maintain optical and imaging equipment at the MBO.
• Work closely with project collaborators to integrate imaging data acquisition with data processing and analysis pipelines.
• Assist in training MBO users on custom optical neuroimaging equipment, providing expert guidance on best practices.
• Identify unique project needs and tailor optical systems to meet these requirements.
• Create detailed documentation of optical system designs, configurations, and workflows.
• Keep abreast of the latest advancements in optics, microscopy, and instrumentation, applying new knowledge to enhance ongoing and future projects.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Optical Sciences or a related field (e.g., System Neuroscience)
• Strong educational emphasis on development of custom microscopy systems and their application to (system) neuroscience
• 3-5 years of experience in optics, microscopy and custom instrumentation within (system) neuroscience context
• Experience building and maintaining custom microscopy techniques, including but not limited to multi-photon, confocal, and fluorescence microscopy
• Strong programming skills in Python, MATLAB for large-scale image analysis, system automation and hardware integration
• Familiarity with advanced imaging processing and analysis methods, statistical analysis, and visualization
• Familiarity with Zemax OpticStudio or similar optical design software for optical modeling, simulation, and analysis of imaging and non-imaging systems
• Experience with AutoDesk or similar CAD software for rapid prototyping, modeling, and simulation of mechanical designs
• Able to independently troubleshoot and maintain complex optical systems
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt custom solutions to meet the needs of various research projects
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to both experts and non-experts
• 3-5 years experience working in a neuroscience or biological research environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Sciences or System Neuroscience with a strong emphasis on development of custom microscopy system and their application to (system) neuroscience is preferred
• In vivo experience with advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as calcium imaging, voltage imaging, and optogenetics
• Experience with animal models (e.g., rodent, flies, fish) and behavioral assays
• Experience with computational imaging, computer vision, machine learning frameworks
• Experience with big data technologies and high-performance computing

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This job requires the ability to remain in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time, dexterity to grasp and manipulate objects with fingers, mobility including ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds within the workspace. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who can perform the essential functions for the position.

The Rockefeller University is an equal opportunity employer – veterans/individuals with disabilities. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics protected by applicable local, state or federal law, including but not limited to disability and protected veteran status.

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on various factors, including but not limited to organizational budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The hiring range provided represents The Rockefeller University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Compensation Range: Min

USD $80,000.00/Yr.

Compensation Range: Max

USD $110,000.00/Yr.