Data Scientist, CryoSEM Blockface

The Team

To develop a dynamic, integrated view of biological systems in health and disease, the Chan Zuckerberg Institute for Advanced Biological Imaging (CZ Imaging Institute) aims to push forward the development and application of new imaging technologies over the next 10 to 15 years. CZ Imaging Institute researchers will collaboratively develop breakthrough biological imaging systems centered around grand challenges that push the boundaries of what we can see and measure to obtain deep insights into the architecture of complex biological systems at the molecular level.

As an extension of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s Imaging program, the CZ Imaging Institute (http://czii.org/) will create breakthrough technologies — hardware, software, biological probes, data, and platforms — that will be made available to the scientific community and adopted worldwide through a combination of direct access to the Institute, open sharing of advances, and commercial partnerships.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Scientist to join our team in developing cutting-edge algorithms and software tools for improving and analyzing images acquired using newly developed, state-of-the-art cryogenic block face focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (cryoFIB-SEM) coupled with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and other readout modalities.

This role is ideal for candidates with a strong background in image processing, and a passion for advancing scientific discovery through computational innovation. Expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is strongly preferred and will play a key role in driving novel solutions in data analysis and interpretation. We value critical thinking, problem-solving ability, and clear communication in our vibrant, collaborative environment.

What You'll Do

• Design, implement, and optimize novel algorithms for 3D volumetric image correction, registration and reconstruction followed by segmentation, and analysis in multi-modality cryogenic FIB-SEM and AFM image stacks.
• Design and implement precise, automated data collection schemes to enable high-throughput FIB-SEM and AFM data acquisition.
• Develop robust, scalable software packages and pipelines for automatic processing and reconstruction of large-scale imaging datasets.
• Apply and adapt AI/ML techniques, including deep learning, to automate feature detection, denoising, classification, and other tasks.
• Collaborate closely with biologists, microscopists, and software engineers to understand research goals and tailor computational solutions.
• Prepare technical documentation, user guides, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations.

What You'll Bring

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Material Science, Physics, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in image processing, especially for 3D or volumetric data.
• Proficient in programming languages such as Python and C++.
• Experience with scientific computing libraries and frameworks (e.g., NumPy, SciPy, scikit-image).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Compensation

The Redwood City, CA base pay range for a new hire in this role is $153,000.00 - $210,100.00. New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. Actual placement in range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process.

Better Together

As we grow, we’re excited to strengthen in-person connections and cultivate a collaborative, team-oriented environment. This role is a hybrid position requiring you to be onsite for at least 60% of the working month, approximately 3 days a week, with specific in-office days determined by the team’s manager. The exact schedule will be at the hiring manager's discretion and communicated during the interview process.

Benefits for the Whole You

We’re thankful to have an incredible team behind our work. To honor their commitment, we offer a wide range of benefits to support the people who make all we do possible.

• Provides a generous employer match on employee 401(k) contributions to support planning for the future.
• Paid time off to volunteer at an organization of your choice.
• Funding for select family-forming benefits.
• Relocation support for employees who need assistance moving

If you’re interested in a role but your previous experience doesn’t perfectly align with each qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply as you may be the perfect fit for this or another role.

#LI-Hybrid