Research Scientist, Expansion Microscopy Engineering

About the role

This is an engineering-oriented science role focused on optimizing, validating, and applying the entire expansion microscopy pipeline: fixation, anchoring, gelation, softening, staining, imaging, and quality control. The position involves critical analysis of parameters, meticulous execution, and sharp observation of results to refine upstream chemical processes and innovate beyond current limitations.

You will report to the Head of Scalable Chemistry and collaborate with other Mindspan teams—Optical Physiology, Microscopy and Optics, Automation and Industrialization, and Computation and Analysis—using logic and evidence to advance work that enhances overall pipeline performance.

Responsibilities

• Fixation and tissue intake: Develop and standardize intake and fixation protocols for brain tissues. Characterize and optimize chemical conditions to improve downstream expansion microscopy performance. Define parameters for acceptable incoming samples and ensure compatibility with the rest of the pipeline.
• Anchoring, gelation, softening, and staining: Optimize anchoring chemistry, gel formulation, and conditions for gelation and softening. Measure these steps quantitatively and refine labeling and staining in the context of gel parameters.
• Imaging: Collaborate with the Microscopy team to develop acquisition protocols and acquire images. Work with the Computational team on image processing and data interpretation to establish quality control metrics that inform optimization of earlier steps.
• Documentation and training: Maintain detailed protocol records, including the reasoning behind each parameter, to ensure reproducibility. Collaborate with the Automation and Industrialization team to translate validated protocols into robotic execution. Contribute protocols and data to open resources for training others.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, bioengineering, biophysics, neuroscience, or a related field.
• Strong foundation in hydrogel and polymer network chemistry, protein chemistry, and practical intuition for reaction design, analysis, and interpretation.
• Essential experience with confocal imaging, immunostaining tissues, and a solid understanding of optics.
• Hands-on experience with expansion microscopy and light-sheet microscopy is a strong plus.
• Comfort with computational data analysis (Python, Fiji, etc.) and building quantitative metrics for analysis.
• Track record of independent method development, with thoughtful benchmarking and invention.

Skills

• Quick and agile, yet focused; creative, yet disciplined.
• Strong detail orientation with exceptional organizational, planning, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Proficient in writing, able to work independently, lead, manage, and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Self-motivated with a commitment to high-quality standards and a service-oriented mindset.
• Good judgment in balancing flexibility and focus, action and planning, speed and thoughtfulness.
• Open to giving and receiving constructive feedback to advance scientific missions and personal growth.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and family benefits.
• Matching retirement contribution.

Pay

Competitive salary ranging from $120,000 to $159,000, depending on experience.

Schedule

This is an in-person role. Flexible hours may be required at times.