An Optical or Laser Engineer researches and develops technology that uses the science of light (optics). Optical technology includes fiber optic cables, which enable high-speed internet connections across long distances, and lasers, which can be used to make very small incisions and measurements. Works closely with scientists and engineers from other fields on advances in technology.
Open Postdoc Position - Rowland Institute
Open Postdoc Position - Rowland Institute
Company:
Harvard University
Job Location:
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Category:
Neuroscience
Type:
Full-Time
School:
Faculty of Arts and Sciences Department/Area:
Optical microscopy Position Description The brain computes through distributed neural circuits on millisecond timescales. To understand how the brain operates, the Z. Wang Lab at the Rowland Institute at Harvard develops optical tools to record and control neural activity across the entire brain at cellular and millisecond resolution. By combining advanced microscopy, genetically encoded voltage indicators, two-photon optogenetics, and zebrafish neuroscience, we aim to enable causal interrogation of brain-wide neural dynamics at single-cell and single-spike resolution. We invite applications for a postdoctoral fellow to develop an integrated optical platform for simultaneous whole-brain voltage imaging and targeted optogenetic stimulation in larval zebrafish. The system will combine a high-speed light-sheet microscope, a two-photon holographic stimulation system, and software for instrument control, synchronization, and image acquisition. This project builds on our recent paper (Nature Methods 2026, in press, preprint) on voltage imaging of neurons distributed across the larval zebrafish brain at over 200 Hz. The postdoctoral fellow will play a leading role in designing, building, integrating, and validating the next-generation platform. More information is available at https://www.wang-lab.science. Basic Qualifications Applicants must hold, or expect to soon receive, a Ph.D. in physics, optics, engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Candidates should have experience in one or more of the following areas:
Optical microscope design and construction;
Light-sheet or multiphoton microscopy;
Holography, spatial light modulators, or wavefront shaping;
Laser optics, high-speed imaging, or experimental control;
Microscope-control and data-acquisition software development.
A strong record of research in optical imaging, microscopy, scientific instrumentation, or related fields is preferred. Additional Qualifications Experience in neuroscience, optogenetics, or zebrafish research is helpful but not required. Special Instructions To apply, please submit:
A brief statement (maximum 1 page) describing past research, future interests, and motivation for joining the Z. Wang Lab
A curriculum vitae
Contact information for two referees, who will be asked to submit letters of recommendation through the application system
Contact Information Zeguan Wang, Ph.D.
The Rowland Institute at Harvard Northwest Building 52 Oxford St. Cambridge, MA 02138
Contact Email:
zeguanwang@fas.harvard.edu Salary Range $67,600-$80,000/year. Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as years of experience, training or qualification, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.
Minimum Number of References Required:
2
Maximum Number of References Allowed:
3 Keywords optics, microscopy, imaging, systems neuroscience, voltage imaging, optogenetics HigherEd360 is part of the HigherEdJobs network.
