End-to-End Optical Engineer for Neural Imaging

Astera Institute; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Astera Neuro is building and refining optical instruments for large-scale neuroscience research. You will design precision systems for two-photon imaging and photostimulation, and you will own projects end-to-end—from concept through fabrication, integration, and reliable operation.

You will collaborate with scientists and industry partners, iterate from rough ideas toward working instruments, and contribute to a team that values openness and open science.

Qualifications

• PhD, MS, or BS with 3-12 years of experience in optical engineering, biomedical engineering, physics, or a related field.
• World-class generalist who has built precision hardware in demanding industry settings.
• Resourceful: machine one part, 3D‑print the next, and outsource when needed.
• Comfort starting from rough ideas and guiding toward a working instrument.
• Deep fundamentals in optical design and fabrication.
• Collaborative and eager to learn the science around you.
• Track record of owning complex instruments end-to-end.
• Experience making and defending design tradeoffs across performance, manufacturability, cost, and timeline.
• Experience equipping and running an optical workshop or prototyping facility.

Responsibilities

• Design precision optical systems for neuroscience experiments, such as large field-of-view, high-speed two-photon imaging and photostimulation microscopes.
• Develop an advanced miniature two-photon microscope capable of simultaneous imaging and photostimulation in freely moving animals.
• Build electronics, control hardware, and software that interface the optical systems with data acquisition and the rest of the research stack.

Skills

Optical engineering

Precision hardware

End-to-end ownership

Hands-on problem-solver

Machining / 3D printing

Education

PhD, MS, or BS with 3–12 years in optical engineering / related field

Tools

CAD/CAM

3D printing

PCB layout / electronics design

DAQ integration

Job description

Astera Neuro is building and refining optical instruments for large-scale neuroscience research. You will design precision systems for two-photon imaging and photostimulation, and you will own projects end-to-end—from concept through fabrication, integration, and reliable operation.

You will collaborate with scientists and industry partners, iterate from rough ideas toward working instruments, and contribute to a team that values openness and open science.