(Senior) Scientist, Optical Technologies

The role

This scientist will design and execute experiments using optical and vibrational spectroscopy to characterize biological systems. The role involves developing experimental workflows and contributing to the scientific strategy of a founding-stage venture.

What you will do

• Design and execute experiments using advanced optical and vibrational spectroscopy measurement techniques to characterize biological systems.
• Own a portfolio of internal and external experiments, coordinating work across CROs, university core facilities, academic collaborators, and internal teams.
• Develop, refine, and document experimental workflows, protocols, and SOPs.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation, identify sources of experimental variability, and improve data quality and reproducibility.
• Stay current across relevant fields to identify promising new experiments and applications.
• Contribute to the scientific strategy and technical roadmap of a founding-stage venture.

Required qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in physics, biophysics, chemistry, engineering, bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Deep hands-on experience developing and applying optical microscopy and vibrational spectroscopy techniques such as Raman microscopy, IR spectroscopy, or related methods.
• Strong experimental background and demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot complex experiments.
• Solid understanding of the physics and engineering of optical instrumentation.
• Strong scientific judgment and the ability to distinguish meaningful biological signals from technical artifacts.

Nice to have

• Experience developing or optimizing advanced Raman spectroscopy (e.g. CARS, SRS) or IR spectroscopy (e.g. photothermal IR), or related techniques.
• Experience working with biological samples such as cells or tissue.
• Familiarity with cell culture or live cell assays is a plus.
• Familiarity with molecular or cell biology sufficient to understand literature and adopt new experimental protocols.
• Programming or scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for instrument automation and experimental data analysis.
• Experience working with external collaborators, university core facilities, or CROs.
• Previous experience in startup, translational, or highly interdisciplinary research environments.

Benefits

• healthcare coverage
• annual incentive program
• retirement benefits
• a broad range of other benefits

About the company

Flagship Pioneering invents and builds platform companies that have the potential for multiple products that transform human health, sustainability and beyond. Flagship Labs is their innovation foundry where teams originate, test, and scale breakthrough technologies.