Microbial Quantum Sensing Research Scientist

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Biological Systems and Engineering (BSE) Division has an opening for a Research Scientist to join the Advanced Biofuels and Bioproducts Process Development Unit (ABPDU), focusing on quantum sensing and biological imaging in bioreactor systems. As a part of a larger self-driving bioreactor program, this role will develop novel sensors to generate predictive data from bioreactors. You will contribute to a research team dedicated to understanding microbial heterogeneity in bioreactors through advanced imaging and sensing tools.

This position has an anticipated start date of September 15, 2025.

What You Will Do:

• Lead projects integrating quantum sensing measurements in biological systems, with a focus on understanding microbial behavior and interactions in bioreactors.
• Design, build, and operate custom fluorescence microscopes for quantum measurements of microbial stress conditions.
• Develop and maintain expertise in fluorescence microscopy, widefield microscopes, LED and CW laser light sources, and detectors (EMCCD, sCMOS, APD, and SPCM).
• Troubleshoot complex laboratory equipment and perform routine maintenance.
• Collaborate with researchers at UC Berkeley, other areas within Berkeley Lab including the Applied Mathematics and Computational Research Division (AMCR), and industrial partners.
• Participate in proposal writing, editing, and submission for funding from the Department of Energy (DOE), other agencies, and private sources.
• Supervise and mentor early career researchers, including graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and technicians.
• Provide guidance on experimental design, data analysis, and scientific interpretation. 

• Utilize image analysis software, including FIJI Trackmate, Image J, and Matlab.
• Foster a collaborative research environment by developing and implementing training programs on quantum sensing and biological imaging techniques.
• Provide detailed six-monthly reports that can be used as part of manuscript for peer reviewed journals.

What is Required:

• A Ph.D. (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Bioengineering, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or a related discipline and minimum of 3 years of relevant experience developing and applying quantum sensing measurements in biological systems and biological imaging in microbial populations or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy, widefield microscopes, and laser light sources. 
• Knowledge of quantum properties of nanodiamond defects.
• Familiarity with flow cytometry and oxidative stress assays.
• Knowledge of yeast cell cultivation and sterile technique.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects with strong organizational, and record-keeping skills.
• Strong analytical skills including experience identifying issues, troubleshooting complex problems, and recommending appropriate solutions.
• Demonstrated record of publication and a successful record of grant writing.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including experience promoting and presenting scientific projects to a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including experience collaborating with a variety of scientific, operations, and technical teams.

Desired Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. in Bioengineering, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or a related discipline.
• Experience working as a Postdoctoral Fellow in a national lab environment.
• Experience working with fluorescence microscopy and widefield microscopes (custom and Nikon Ti2), LED and CW laser light sources, EMCCD, sCMOS, APD, and SPCM detectors, confocal microscopy, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy.
• Demonstrated programming skills in LabVIEW, Python, ImageJ, and Matlab, including familiarity with LabVIEW instrument control, automation, and data acquisition.
• Experience with bioreactor automation and microfluidics.
• Knowledge of nanoparticle and biological imaging in plant root systems.

Notes:

• Application Deadline: For full consideration, please apply with a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume and a cover letter describing your interest by July 28, 2025.
• Appointment Type: This is a full time, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay, 5 year (benefits eligible), Career-Track Term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years and that may be converted to career based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• Salary Information: This position is expected to pay $81,076 - $129,737 annually for job code S05.1. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group.
• Background Check: This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite at the West Berkeley Biocenter (Potter St.) — Bldg. 977 located at 717 Potter Street Berkeley, CA 94710. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Starting May 7, a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.