E11 Bio - Scientist I/II, Expansion Microscopy

Convergent Research, Alameda, California

The role

We are seeking a mission-aligned scientist or engineer who is equally comfortable at the bench, the microscope, and with quantitative data analysis. This role combines sample preparation, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, with engineering-driven technology development focused on quick iterative troubleshooting and standardizing and automating protocols. You will collaborate closely with molecular biology, imaging, and computational teams to ensure we consistently prepare high quality specimens to support our ambitious scaling goals towards whole-brain connectomics.

The role forms a critical part of our sample production pipeline and will be responsible for expansion microscopy development and iteratively improving protocols. Your work will drive two overarching outcomes: improving gel performance and improving the quality, reproducibility and scalability of sample production. This combines hands-on experimental work with defining quantitative metrics to assess mechanical and optical gel properties, image quality and pipeline throughput.

All jobs

E11 Bio - Scientist I/II, Expansion Microscopy

Convergent Research, Alameda, California

The role

Nice to have

Experience working with advanced optical microscope modalities (e.g., spinning-disc confocal or light-sheet microscopy).

Experience designing or applying quantitative scoring systems for expansion microscopy or imaging data

Experience with scaling expansion microscopy throughput in routine production environments

Experience automating lab workflows (e.g., liquid handlers, microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi, scripting in Python)

Strong engineers new to these techniques are encouraged to apply, as are creative experimentalists from outside neuroscience who have developed expansion microscopy or similar methods in other fields. We’re looking for self-starters that iterate quickly and find creative, practical solutions to complex problems. Experience working in fast paced startup-like research environments where roles span multiple technical domains is preferred.

In 6 months, you will have

Fully onboarded into the E11 production pipeline and be consistently generating high-quality gels for imaging

Identify and standardize expansion microscopy QC metrics (e.g, measuring mechanical or optical properties) and stage gate thresholds, and integrated their routine measurement into the pipeline

Increased production gel yield by 50% without a reduction in quality

In 12 months, you will have

Improved the quality, reproducibility, and scalability of the pipeline, both in throughput and in the physical sample sizes we can process (for example, by developing methods for high-quality whole-brain gelation and expansion)

Increased the reproducibility of our protocols so that technical variability between and within samples processed in parallel is reduced by 50%

Reduced hands-on protocol time while improving outcomes and reproducibility, for example through in-house automation development or automation partnerships.

We offer -

An opportunity to help change the world and work with a world-class interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers on a field-defining moonshot

Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan; parental leave.

Generous time off + paid holidays.

401K matching up to 6% of base salary

Ample healthy and energizing food including daily lunches.

Stipend for fitness and wellness activities.

E11 Bio - Scientist I/II, Expansion Microscopy

The role

E11 Bio - Scientist I/II, Expansion Microscopy

The role

What you will do

Nice to have

In 6 months, you will have

In 12 months, you will have

About Convergent Research

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