Research Scientist Engineer Deep Brain Two Photon Imaging and Optogenetics
A 501(c)(3) science-and-technology research institute/foundation operating direct Neuro-AI research, life-sciences programs through Radial, and an open-science residency program.
About Astera Institute
Astera Institute supports and operates open public-goods work for science and technology. Its current activities include neuroscience-informed AGI research, AI-enabled life-sciences programs, open datasets and publishing infrastructure, and residencies for early-stage projects.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
You will develop deep-brain optical implants and surgical procedures for primate and rodent research. You will run two-photon imaging and holographic stimulation experiments, optimize optical systems, analyze neural population data, set expression strategies, perform validation surgeries, and mentor research staff.
Requirements
- PhD or equivalent research experience in neuroscience, bioengineering, physics, or a related field
- 0–4 years of experience
- Rodent or primate survival-surgery experience and stereotaxic injection experience
- Experience with in vivo two-photon calcium imaging or holographic optogenetics
- Experience with two-photon optical alignment, system characterization, and in vivo use
- Scientific computing proficiency for neural-data analysis using Python or MATLAB and Suite2p, CaImAn, or comparable pipelines
Responsibilities
- Design and iterate GRIN lens or microprism assemblies for deep-brain imaging
- Develop and help execute surgical implantation procedures
- Run two-photon imaging and holographic photostimulation experiments
- Run holographic targeting, power calibration, and closed-loop stimulation
- Lead computational analysis of neural population data
- Set viral and transgenic expression strategies
- Perform rodent survival surgery, viral injection, cranial-window implantation, and headbar installation
- Mentor research associates, technicians, and junior scientists at senior or principal levels
- Contribute to publications, talks, open data, tooling releases, and scientific-community engagement
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package