Neurobiological Instrumentation Engineer

Job Summary: The Neurobiological Instrumentation Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing complex electromechanical and software systems to assist and advance the research of the Janelia campus. This requires an intimate knowledge and command of neurobiological concepts, as well as a solid background in the physical sciences and instrumentation. Principal Responsibilities: Develop, assemble, integrate, test, and optimize complex systems for neurobiological research. Applications will include development of behavioral apparatus, data acquisition and control systems, and sophisticated electromechanical systems (both hardware and software). Develop robust systems that can be distributed and replicated at multiple sites. Work closely with Janelia research groups on long-term, major development projects. Provide shared resource support to the campus as a whole. Mentor and provide technical direction to junior members of the Instrument Design and Fabrication (ID&F) team. Work collaboratively with Software Engineering and Scientific Computing (external departments). Test and debug prototypes and complete systems. Inspect and analyze scientific equipment and diagnose trouble or malfunctions and make necessary adjustments to minimize service interruptions and equipment downtime. Assist in the validation of new equipment for neuroscience research. Tracks time, effort, supplies and materials costs for projects to enable proper charges to customers. Multi-tasks and work on projects for more than one research group. Prioritizes multiple project tasks. Good skills in assuring the quality performance of project work, as well as working within project schedule and budget. Other duties, as assigned. Preferred Qualifications: Minimum of M.S. in Physics, Neuroscience, or Engineering required, Ph.D. preferred. Experience working in an active laboratory environment. Minimum of five years experience in developing scientific instrumentation. Experience working in neurobiological research. Requires technical aptitude - comprehensive knowledge of hardware and software systems as applied to instrumentation for neurobiology. Experience with design and implementation of instrumentation and automation required. Ability to understand core project requirements, which will be of a scientific as well as technical nature, and suggest alternative approaches. Must have the ability to integrate diverse software and hardware. Must be organized, and able to clearly document work. Experience with imaging systems, especially high frame rate CCD cameras and image capture a plus. Ability to interact with research and management personnel at all levels. Ability to provide equipment users with a safe work environment. Experience with Matlab and/or Labview a strong plus. CAD and mechanical design experience a plus.Physical Requirements: Regularly lifts and/or carries objects weighing up to 20 pounds. Regularly stoops and bends. Regularly reaches and grasps with arms and hands. Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances. Long periods of standing and/or sitting. Additional Information: Please include a cover letter and three references with your resume. Please include the job title and job number in the subject line. To Apply To apply for this position, please email or send your resume to: JFRC Jobs Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Farm Research Campus 19700 Helix Drive Ashburn, Virginia 20147 Fax: 571-209-4079 E-mail: jfrcjobs@janelia.hhmi.org