Scientist, Advanced Microscopy

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 (https://czii.org/) 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 position is focused on developing novel hardware technologies to extend the capabilities of cryogenic FIB-SEM to enable a deeper understanding of cell architecture and function at molecular resolutions. In this, the 3D cellular structure of unstained, vitrified cells is to be systematically imaged at the highest possible resolutions. The challenge is that contrast of non-lipid structures is very low in the SEM, and the research will focus on developing alternative contrast strategies using an in-tool AFM.

This on-site position will be based in Redwood City, CA.

What You’ll Do:

• Develop improved methods and workflows for imaging and analyzing unstained biological samples within the FIB-SEM (with AFM)
• Explore novel approaches for successively imaging the surface of FIB-milled vitrified biological samples using the AFM or related scanning probe optical methods 
• Collaborate closely with platform and technical research teams at CZII
• Collaborate broadly with the scientific community
• Write papers and present findings at scientific conferences
• Mentor and train junior researchers in the lab
• Keep up-to-date with the latest research in the field and identify new areas of investigation.
• You will understand the challenges and opportunities for the Institute, and prioritize where to focus our efforts in biological research as well as how to best apply novel technology developments to provide the highest impact and results to the scientific community

You have: 

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering or related field
• A strong track record of research accomplishments in AFM imaging
• Excellent analytical skills 
• Ability to design and fabricate instrumentation
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Outstanding attention to detail, accuracy, and procedures
• Must have the ability to multitask and work with technology developers in a highly collaborative environment

Nice to have: 

• Experience with cryogenic imaging
• Python or other coding expertise
• FIB-SEM on biological samples
• Near-field optical imaging experience

Compensation:

The Redwood City, CA base pay range for this role is $108,000.00 - $148,500.00.  New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. Actual placement in range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview 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

If you’re interested in a role but your previous experience doesn’t perfectly align with each qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply as you may be the perfect fit for this or another role.

Benefits

We offer a robust benefits program that enables the important work employees do everyday. 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.