Research Associate II, Structural & Cellular Biology (Proteomics & CryoET)

Join the Prevedel group at EMBL Heidelberg to develop next-generation optical imaging techniques for deep tissue and in vivo microscopy, with applications in biology and neuroscience. This role combines hands-on research with laboratory management responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical, optical, and electronic components of custom light microscopes for three-dimensional imaging in scattering biological tissue.
• Construct, align, and adapt custom microscopy setups for specific life science applications and imaging conditions.
• Develop and maintain hardware control and data acquisition software (LabView, Python, Matlab, or similar), including automation of imaging workflows and post-processing pipelines.
• Maintain and develop the group’s codebase and GitHub repositories, and provide cluster computing support for large-scale data analysis.
• Program and customize computational data analysis packages, including three-dimensional visualization and quantitative analysis of imaging data.
• Design custom optomechanical components using CAD software for microscope construction and sample interfacing.
• Collaborate closely with biologists and EMBL instrumentation workshops to ensure practicality and usability of microscopes, including custom sample mounts and environmental control.
• Conduct continuous technology watch to keep the group’s microscopes at a cutting-edge level in hardware and software.
• Train and provide technical assistance to students and postdoctoral fellows in the group.
• Represent the lab in the Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit’s lab manager network, participate in joint weekly meetings, and contribute to cross-unit technical coordination.
• Manage general lab organization, including ordering supplies and equipment, maintaining databases, and overseeing laser and chemical safety protocols.

Requirements

• MSc, or preferably a PhD, in optical engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with advanced optical systems, including alignment and characterization of complex microscopy or spectroscopy setups and pulsed laser systems.
• Strong programming skills in one or more of: LabView, Python, Matlab, or similar.
• Proficiency in CAD software for the design of optomechanical components.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks independently and reliably.
• Pragmatic, hands-on mindset focused on finding practical solutions.
• Fluency in English and strong communication and presentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with computational optics, image analysis, or large-scale data processing on compute clusters.
• Familiarity with laser, biological, and chemical safety regulations in a research laboratory environment.
• Prior experience with biological sample preparation and handling.
• Experience supervising students or junior researchers in a technical setting.
• Keen interest in the biological and neuroscientific applications of novel optical technologies.

Pay

Grade 5 or 6, with a monthly salary starting from €4,147.92 to €4,713.20 after tax (before 12.99% EMBL social security deductions), plus other paid benefits.

Schedule

Initial contract for 3 years, with the possibility of a fixed-term extension based on individual performance.