The role
This is a hands-on job optimizing, and applying, staining technologies for the multiplexed investigation of expansion microscopy (ExM)-processed brain tissue. The role involves screening binders to specific molecular targets, implementing fluorophore conjugation strategies to achieve target multiplexing, and developing tissue-wide ultrastructure staining methods. Efforts will be put towards optimizing, applying, and scaling existing methods. You will report to the Head of Molecular Labeling Technologies, and work, as needed, with other Mindspan teams (Scalable Chemistry, Optical Physiology, Microscopy and Optics, Automation and Industrialization, and Computation and Analysis), using logic and evidence to advance your work so as to boost performance for all.
The position is intended for someone who wants to uncover the 3D molecular details of the brain with cutting-edge detail. Its multidisciplinary nature will require someone who enjoys learning about and solving problems in chemistry, microscopy, and biology. It also requires teamwork, systematic documentation, analysis, and iterative problem solving, to arrive at working protocols, apply them, and share them.
What you'll own
Binder discovery. You will screen and discover binders (e.g., antibodies) to image molecular targets in expanded brain tissue.
Bioconjugation. For the purposes of increasing molecular multiplexing and achieving high signal intensities, you will modify binders with fluorescent molecules as well as other chemistries in a fashion that leads to multiplexed readouts.
Staining chemistry. In addition to staining for specific molecular targets, you will develop and apply technologies that can stain and investigate cellular morphologies at scale, to delineate brain wiring.
Imaging. Characterization of staining will be performed through fluorescence microscopy. You will perform image analysis to quantify results to ensure desired outcomes are obtained.
Documentation and training. You will keep protocol records that others can execute along with the reasoning behind each parameter. You will collaborate with the Automation and Industrialization team to translate validated protocols into robotic execution and contribute protocols and data to the open resources we train others on.
What we're looking for
You have a Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, bioengineering, neuroscience, or a related field. You have a strong foundation in conventional immunostaining of tissues as well as experience in advanced, multiplexed methods. You have experience with bioconjugation and fundamental skills in synthetic and polymer chemistry.
You should be experienced with fluorescence microscopy techniques and fluorophore chemistry. Experience with expansion microscopy and tissue clearing techniques is a plus. Also, you should be comfortable with routine image analysis (Python, Fiji, etc.) and be able to quantitatively evaluate microscopy data. You have a track record of independent method development where the benchmarking was as thoughtful as the invention. You are quick and agile, yet able to focus; creative, yet disciplined.
You are detail oriented and have exceptional organizational, planning, interpersonal, and communication skills. You are good at writing, and can work independently as well as lead and manage. You can prioritize and multitask as needed. Self-motivation, commitment to high quality standards, and a service-oriented mindset are all key. You have good judgment, balancing flexibility and focus, action and planning, speed and thoughtfulness, as appropriate. You are open to giving and receiving feedback, constructively and thoughtfully, to advance scientific missions and personal growth.
This is an in-person job. Flexible hours may be required at times.
What we offer
The chance to build the staining pipeline of a new research institute alongside some of the most adventurous scientists in the field, with real autonomy and a direct line to the people setting the scientific agenda. You will get to contribute to addressing one of the most important unmet medical needs of our time, as part of the initial team. You will learn lots of things that probably cannot be learned any other way, as you solve problems, build, and work with others. As Mindspan grows, we expect this role to grow with it. We are excited to invest in someone who wants to take on increasing responsibility over time.
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and family benefits, and a matching retirement contribution.
Competitive salary $120,000 to $159,000, depending on experience.
