The Department of Ophthalmology's Enigma project is reimagining the experimental neuroscience pipeline with big data and AI at its core. A central goal of the project is to build a foundation model of the visual brain—a “digital twin” that captures neural activity and intelligent behavior at unprecedented scale and resolution. This ambitious project spans multiple institutes including the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford Bio-X, and the Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence Institute, bringing together experts in systems neuroscience, AI, and engineering. This ambitious initiative promises to offer unprecedented insights into the brain's algorithms of perception and cognition while serving as a key resource for aligning artificial intelligence models with human-like neural representations.
We are seeking a Science and Engineering Associate with strong mechanical and mechatronic design skills to develop next generation neurophysiology and intracortical brain-interfacing technology. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in prototyping lightweight, highly scalable, precisely controlled mechanical systems, e.g., precise linear actuation of Neuropixels probes, enabling the team to record neural activity and understand the brain at unprecedented scale.
This role is ideal for individuals who thrive at the rapidly evolving interface of neuroscience, engineering, and software development, and want to contribute to a uniquely interdisciplinary effort. This position is embedded within a vibrant team of neuroscientists, engineers, and software developers led by Andreas Tolias (toliaslab.org), Tirin Moore (moorelabstanford.com), and collaborators.
Role & Responsibilities:
- Develop scalable and modular systems for neural recordings and animal behavior experiments
- Design, prototype, and fabricate electro-mechanical components used in experimental neuroscience, including 3D-printed and machined parts
- Design or integrate new approaches to miniaturized linear actuation and control, e.g., via piezoelectric motors, and online monitoring systems, e.g. via embedded cell-phone cameras and real-time, closed-loop computer vision software.
- Maintain design libraries and documentation for versioning, reproducibility, and team collaboration
- Collaborate closely with systems engineers and researchers to find creative solutions to evolving experimental needs
- * - Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field
- Strong experience with CAD tools (e.g., Fusion, OnShape, SolidWorks) for mechanical design and prototyping.
- Familiarity with software programming for system integration and control.
- Experience with rapid prototyping using 3D printers and fabrication methods.
- Practical understanding of fabrication tolerances, material selection, and mechanical fabrication processes.
- Experience applying engineering principles to develop scalable and modular systems for experimental applications.
- Ability to design, prototype, and fabricate electro-mechanical components.
- Ability to write clear documentation, maintain design libraries for versioning and reproducibility, and perform
- Administrative duties related to research projects.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Associate Degree or certificate of completion in a related engineering or related scientific discipline and three years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and relevant experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Experience applying scientific and engineering principles and practices to perform technical services and support.
- Experience with data analysis, experimental process, design, and development of prototypes, equipment, and/or systems related to area of specialization.
- Ability to write clear documentation, perform administrative duties, and research protocol maintenance related to research studies and/or scientific/engineering projects.
- Experience with software applications, systems, or programs relevant for the job.
- Ability to interpret and determine validity of data and check own work.
- Ability to communicate, liaise, and work with staff, students, faculty, and outside vendors.
- Ability to effectively supervise and train a diverse work staff.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently grasp lightly/fine manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds.
- Occasionally stand/walk, sit, twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasp forcefully.
- Rarely kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other), reach/work above shoulders, use a telephone, writing by hand, sort/file paperwork or parts, operate foot and/or hand controls, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh >40 pounds.
- * - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May be exposed to high voltage electricity, radiation or electromagnetic fields, lasers, noise > 80dB TWA, Allergens/Biohazards/Chemicals /Asbestos, confined spaces, working at heights ?10 feet, temperature extremes, heavy metals, unusual work hours or routine overtime and/or inclement weather.
May require travel.
The expected pay range for this position is $95,970 to $116,993 annually.
Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
