Postdoctoral Research Associate in Advanced 3D Bioimaging

About the role

The Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a strong background in optics to develop and apply advanced three-dimensional microscopy methods. The successful candidate will contribute to custom 3D tracking and light-sheet instruments designed to visualize individual antigen-antibody binding events. This highly interdisciplinary position combines optical instrument development, hardware control, biological sample preparation, experimental design, and quantitative data analysis. The project will use new microscopy approaches to address scientific challenges relevant to pathogen detection, host-pathogen interactions, and algal biofuel development. The position offers the opportunity to work across optics, engineering, biophysics, and biological imaging within a collaborative national laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, align, and optimize custom optical systems for 3D tracking and light-sheet microscopy.
• Develop and integrate optomechanical hardware, detectors, and instrument-control software.
• Plan and conduct experiments that visualize and quantify individual antigen-antibody binding events.
• Prepare and functionalize microscopy samples, including slides and surfaces, and handle biological specimens such as bacteria and viruses.
• Develop data-processing and analysis workflows for advanced imaging experiments.
• Communicate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations.

Requirements

• PhD in engineering, physics, biophysics, chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. The degree must have been completed within the past five years or be completed before the appointment begins.
• A strong background in optics, including experience designing optical layouts and performing precision alignment.
• Experience developing optomechanical hardware and instrument-control software.
• Experience with basic laboratory sample preparation, including slide functionalization and solution preparation.
• A demonstrated record of scientific achievement through peer-reviewed publications and presentations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to conduct research independently and collaboratively.

Qualifications

• Experience with single-photon detection methods, including single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) detectors, time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC), or photon antibunching measurements.
• Experience developing instrument-control software and quantitative data-analysis workflows.
• Experience with light-sheet microscopy or three-dimensional single-particle tracking.
• Comfort working in a wet-laboratory environment, including synthesis and biological sample preparation.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)