Research Technician

About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a highly motivated and accountable Research Technician to join a fast-paced program developing automated, real-time microscope control systems for image-guided single-cell isolation and photoactivation. The role focuses on building hardware and software systems that enable real-time, region-of-interest (ROI)-specific laser ablation and photoactivation, integrated directly into automated microscopy and spatial single-cell analysis workflows (Image-seq). This is a hands-on position requiring strong execution, ownership, and attention to detail in both real-time hardware control and optical instrumentation design.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS in Physics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with FPGA programming and hardware design (e.g., Xilinx/AMD Vivado or equivalent)
• Experience with real-time signal processing, hardware-software interfacing, and firmware development
• Demonstrated strong work ethic, accountability, and reliability
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently

Preferred:

• Experience interfacing real-time hardware control systems with microscopy or optical imaging platforms
• Background in optical instrumentation design or optical system integration
• Background in real-time data acquisition and processing (e.g., AXI Stream interfaces, USB protocols)
• Interest or prior exposure to biological or biomedical applications of engineering systems
• Experience with device firmware development for Windows-compatible systems

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities:

• Design, program, and optimize FPGA-based hardware platforms for real-time microscope control, including ROI-specific laser ablation and photoactivation
• Develop real-time signal processing pipelines to interface microscope hardware (scanning systems, detectors) with control electronics
• Contribute to the design and integration of optical instrumentation supporting real-time, image-guided targeting
• Integrate real-time hardware control systems with microscope acquisition software to enable fully automated workflows
• Develop and maintain device firmware and communication protocols (e.g., USB, AXI Stream) for hardware-software integration
• Support development of automated Image-seq and spatial single-cell analysis workflows, including real-time calibration, testing, and validation on biological samples
• Collaborate with lab members on applying real-time-controlled ablation/photoactivation systems to live-cell and tissue-based experiments
• Maintain rigorous documentation, troubleshoot hardware/software and optical issues, and clearly communicate results and technical progress

This position is best suited for candidates who are highly driven, detail-oriented, and capable of executing at a high level in a demanding, interdisciplinary research environment spanning real-time engineering systems, optical instrumentation, and biology.

Documents Required:

Resume

Cover Letter

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.