Scientist – Advanced Light Microscopy

The Allen Institute accelerates science for a healthier world through large-scale research designed to answer some of the most complex questions in biology. Our multi-disciplinary teams generate foundational knowledge, tools, and data to understand how our brain, cells, and immune system work. We share our work openly so others can build on it, move faster, and ask bigger questions. We drive discovery forward and create new possibilities for improving human health.

The goal of the Neural Dynamics accelerator is to understand how the brain generates flexible behavior. We aim to uncover the algorithms—implemented by dynamics in brain-wide neural circuits—that allow animals to build internal models, process information, and choose actions.

We are searching for a Scientist to help build next-generation light microscopy systems, predominantly light-sheet microscopes, and to use them to image expanded tissue. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, with deep expertise in optics and microscopy, hands-on experience with expansion microscopy and tissue labeling, and enthusiasm for working across the full imaging pipeline. You will design, build, align, and optimize custom microscopes;

prepare specimens for imaging; acquire large datasets; and analyze them to extract biological insight. This position requires close collaboration with biologists, engineers, and data scientists to ensure that new instruments are both technically excellent and scientifically productive.

At the Allen Institute, we believe that science is for everyone – and should be open to everyone. We are dedicated to combating biases and reducing barriers to STEM careers more broadly. We also believe that science is better when it includes different perspectives and voices. We strive to make the Allen Institute a place where everyone feels like they belong and are empowered to do their best work in a supportive environment.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for our open positions.
This is a limited term position expected to last through September 2029, with the possibility of extending based on project goals and funding.

• Design, build, align, and characterize custom light microscopy systems
• Optimize imaging performance for expanded specimens
• Prepare biological specimens for imaging, including tissue expansion and labeling workflows
• Operate microscopes to acquire high-quality, large-scale imaging datasets
• Analyze imaging data to extract quantitative biological insights, and develop or adapt analysis workflows as needed
• Collaborate with biologists to translate scientific needs into instrument and workflow improvements
• Document protocols, system designs, and analysis methods to support reproducibility and sharing
• Present results internally, via talks and progress reports, and to the external community, via conferences and publications

Note:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

• PhD in physics, optics/photonics, bioengineering, neuroscience, biophysics, or a related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience

• Deep experience in optics and light microscopy, including hands-on building and alignment of optical systems
• Demonstrated experience with expansion microscopy
• Track record of writing software for hardware control and instrument automation (e.g., acquisition software, device integration, Python, or similar)
• Demonstrated proficiency in conducting collaborative,…