Postdoctoral Scientist (Optical Engineering) - Rodriguez Lab

Location: Yale University

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

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The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

We have an outstanding opportunity for an optical engineering-focused Postdoctoral Scientist to join the lab team of Dr. Cristina Rodriguez, Freeman Hrabowski Scholar, based in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Yale University. The focus of their research is to develop optical microscopy tools for visualizing critical biological processes deep within their native context, with a particular focus on applications in neuroscience. To this end, the lab combines tools from physics and engineering, including multiphoton microscopy and wavefront shaping. Using these novel imaging tools, the lab seeks to advance our understanding of previously underexplored biology, while contributing to the education and training of the next generation of diverse scientists. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting https://rodriguezlab.yale.edu/

About the Postdoctoral Scientist role:

This role is an ideal fit for an intellectually curious, creative, and driven scientist ready to gain further professional training while bringing passion for discovery and enthusiasm for contributing to the Rodriguez lab’s goals. The ideal candidate thrives on collaboration, demonstrates strong communication skills, and is committed to professional growth and development.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Full access to HHMI’s on-demand online training courses and skill-building seminars.

• Generous and stable research funding from HHMI.

• Joining the vibrant Yale research community.

• The chance to be part of a tight-knit, collegial, interdisciplinary lab team.

• Mentorship from a leader with a growth mindset who values scientific curiosity and interdisciplinary thinking.

• Opportunities to learn and collaborate through Dr. Rodriguez’s affiliation with Yale’s Wu Tsai Institute.

What you’ll do:

• Design and build a state-of-the-art deep-tissue imaging platform with integrated advanced optical tools, including wavefront shaping.

• Write scientific manuscripts describing research findings.

• Attend local and national meetings to present research findings, learn about the latest advances in the field, and develop a scientific network.

What you bring:

• A PhD in physics, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, or a closely related area of study is required.

• Experience with optical engineering and optical microscopy is required.

• Experience with wavefront shaping would be a plus.  

• A self-motivated mindset with the persistence to explore innovative research and address challenging scientific problems.

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle challenges creatively.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss findings clearly in diverse settings.

• A flexible and adaptive approach, willing to learn new techniques, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

• Meticulous approach to work with a high level of attention to detail.

• Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and congenial environment.

• Strong commitment to research integrity.

Application Instructions:

• Please make sure to include a cover letter detailing your interest in this position as part of your application.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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