Apply for Job Job ID362572 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyResearch-Researchers Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9742R5 Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job About the Job About the Job: The University of Minnesota (UMN) has launched a major initiative to establish a Medical Discovery Team (MDT) in Optical Imaging and Brain Science. The team includes several newly hired tenure-track faculty members who have experience in multi-photon microscopy. They are focused on the development, advancement and application of cutting edge, innovative technologies, for imaging neuronal activity across multiple spatial scales. UMN is seeking an Opto-Mechanical Engineer to work directly with this team of researchers in the development and refinement of novel technologies to support this unique research program. Typical instruments will be microscopes comprised of ultrafast lasers and a wide range of custom designed optical, electro-mechanical, electro-optical, and acousto-optical components. The Opto-Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for task and project level activities, including the design, testing, integration, and maintenance of new optical modules that expand the capabilities of our existing systems to probe brain function. We seek someone who generates great ideas and is ready to work collaboratively with our researchers, industry partners, and suppliers to deliver solutions to technical challenges. The Opto-Mechanical Engineer will also receive direct training from our Senior Optical Engineer, who has over 10 years of experience in optical engineering and experimental physics. Position Responsibilities: Design and Maintenance - 70% * Align and maintain optical systems (commercial products and custom designs). * Based on existing designs, assemble and optimize wide-field and other custom multi-photon microscopes. * Create optomechanical designs using 3D CAD modeling software packages such as Autodesk Inventor. * Perform optical designs and simulations in software such as ZEMAX. * Characterize the performance of commercial and custom optical systems. * Add custom and commercial opto-mechanical features to existing systems. * Write and edit code in scientific computing and automation software (e.g. MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, ScanImage). Collaboration and Training - 30% * Meet regularly with members of the Optical Imaging and Brain Science MDT to discuss, prioritize and review tasks. * Clearly explain design concepts, theory of operation, and instructions to researchers in the biological sciences. * Advise researchers on the purchase of commercial optical components and equipment. Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering, Physics, or Optics and 1 year of related experience or equivalent combination of education and work experience to equal 5 years. Additional skills include: * Strong technical aptitude in engineering theory, principles, and practice. * Ability to rapidly learn to align and maintain complicated optical systems. * Ability to learn to create and read optomechanical designs in 3D CAD modeling software packages such as Autodesk Inventor. * Proficient in at least one programming language. * Ability to clearly explain design concepts, theory of operation, and instructions to researchers in the biological sciences. * Ability to prioritize multiple project tasks and work on projects for more than one research group. * Excellent communication, verbal, and written skills. Preferred Qualifications: * Previous experience in photonics. * Familiarity with scientific computing or automation software (e.g. MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW). About the Department The University of Minnesota's Medical Discovery Team (MDT) on Optical Imaging and Brain Science is a multi-disciplinary effort focused on mapping the detailed circuits that underlie sensation, perception and complex behaviors in the developing and mature brain. State-of-the-art optical imaging and optical stimulation techniques that provide sub-micron spatial resolution will be used in experimental model systems of health, injury and disease. These techniques include two-photon and three-photon imaging and holographic stimulation of individual cells using two-photon optogenetics. Recent advances in optics help preserve the high spatial resolution even when examining multiple brain regions simultaneously. Thus, the activity from large ensembles of cells will provide near complete wiring diagrams underlying specific behaviors in the healthy brain as well as in diseases such as Alzheimer's, epilepsy, autism, stroke, and vascular dementia. Moreover, to create synergy across the MDT's, researchers in the Optical Imaging MDT may collaborate and lend their technologies to the Addiction MDT and the Nikon University Imaging Center (UIC) core facilitates. Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. This position will remain open until filled. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. Diversity Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering... For full info follow application link. The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.