Advanced Optics Engineer (Any Level)

Position Objective:The Global Research & Development group at Invitrogen is in need of a knowledgeable and experienced engineer with a background in the analysis, design, and construction of of advanced optical detection and imaging systems. The candidate will be responsible for developing a single molecule multi-spectral fluorescence imaging system that will be an itegral part of a highly focused fast paced program. The candidate will play a critical role in developing the instrumentation aspects of a multi-dsiciplinary program aimed at automating the detection and analysis of single biological molecule interactions.Essential Functions:• Low light level electro-optical system analysis and design including SNR and link margin calculations • Analysis of relative performance of candidate single molecule imaging technologies including ICMOS, EMCCD, scanning confocal arrays, PMTs, and APDs• Analysis of relative performance of optical spectral separation technologies including dispersive elements, dielectric filters, and gratings• Design and construct prototype opto-electronic detection systems• Work across the product development life-cycle from research phase breadboards, through functional prototypes, and into production equipment.• Utilize rapid software prototyping and development tools, and a variety of scripting languages and programming languages (C/C++, .NET, Java, MatLab) to analyze system performance.• Plan, manage, and execute assigned development-related projects utilizing established best practices and/or innovative procedures, applying engineering and scientific knowledge and accumulated experience to complete projects. • Analyze data, evaluate results, form conclusions, and provide and/or implement product, process, or document improvements. • Ensure activities are consistent with project critical path, and respond appropriately to changing priorities. Manage activities and assigned projects to reach agreed objectives. • Present findings at group or departmental meetings, as required. • Supervise assigned staff to meet project goals and timelines, as required. Nature and Scope: Position exercises judgment within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Performs duties independently with only general direction given. Job encounters recurring work situations with frequent variations from the norm, involving a high degree of complexity. Works on complex problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Accuracy is required in performing all functions of this position. Mistakes in work could cause substantial data errors. Measures of Contribution/ImpactContribution is measured through, but not limited to, timely achievement of program milestones, innovative solutions to complex problems, new product development, and successful patent applications, and effective team participation.Technical Excellence:Established technical expertise; serves as a resource to other departments. Possesses and applies a comprehensive knowledge of a particular field of specialization to the completion of complex assignments; advances research in field of specialization.Education:Ph.D. or M.S. in electrical or optical engineering or physicsExperience:• 3+ years of relevant commercial optical system design, analysis, and prototyping experienceKey knowledge includes:• Low light level electro-optical system analysis and design including SNR and link margin calculations • State-of-the-art electro-optic detection technologies including ICMOS and EMCCD cameras, scanning confocal arrays, PMTs, and APDs• Optical spectral separation technologies including dispersive elements, dielectric filters, and gratings• Diffraction limited imaging systems• Techniques for construction of prototype opto-electronic detection systems• TIRF and fluorescence imaging techniques• Component level optical design – lens systems (e.g. microscope objectives), cameras, filters, mirrors, etc. • Experienced in statistics, computational mathematics, real-time signal processing, statistical analysis, and image analysis• Analytical software development experience with C/C++, .NET, Java, and/or MatLab.• Working knowledge of molecular biology, chemisty, and/or biology preferred.• Understanding of instrumentation development processes and methodologies across multiple disciplines and subject matters is preferred.• Advanced technical writing skills to produce reports and documentsKey skills/abilities include:• Must have excellent communication skills with experience in working in teams of cross-functional multi-disciplinary individuals• Ability to manager his/her own work independently and to manage the technical work of cross-functional teams is required. • Excellent time management skills and ability to work independently required. • Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to efficiently evaluate, prioritize and handle multiple and changing projects and priorities. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interpret and summarize scientific results in a clear, concise, accurate manner. • Demonstrated ability to formulate and solve problems. • Proven ability to lead and provide work direction required. • Will need to flourish in a highly collaborative, multi-disciplinary team environment. Contacts:Frequent technical interaction both within the company at all levels, with subordinates, colleagues, members of other departments and company Directors, and with outside scientific collaborators through seminars and publications of research, and customers through site visits and scientific meetings. May interface with external hardware and software developers and will work closely with internal reagent development teams.Working Conditions:Works in a laboratory environment. Is required to lift up to 40 lbs. May be required to stand for long periods of time while performing duties. Must be able to work safely with chemicals and hazardous materials. Must be able to work overtime and flexible shifts.