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Light Sheet Microscopy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$48K - $65K/yr

We leverage single-molecule super-resolution imaging, advanced lattice light sheet microscopy and other state of the art biophysical approaches to study molecular mechanisms of transcription, genome ...

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Light Sheet Microscopy information

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How much do light sheet microscopy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for light sheet microscopy in the United States is $25.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Light Sheet Microscopy Specialist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Light Sheet Microscopy Specialist, you need a strong background in biology, physics, or related sciences, with hands-on experience in advanced imaging techniques. Familiarity with specialized microscopy systems, image analysis software (such as Fiji/ImageJ), and possibly certifications in microscopy or laboratory techniques is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial for troubleshooting, collaborating with researchers, and presenting findings. These competencies are essential for producing accurate imaging data and advancing research in biomedical and life sciences.

What is light sheet microscopy?

Light sheet microscopy is an advanced imaging technique that uses a thin sheet of light to illuminate a specimen from the side, allowing for rapid and gentle imaging of living tissues and large biological samples. This method minimizes photodamage and bleaching, making it ideal for long-term observation of live samples. Light sheet microscopy provides high-resolution, three-dimensional images, and is often used in developmental biology, neuroscience, and other fields requiring detailed visualization of complex biological structures.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with light sheet microscopy, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals using light sheet microscopy often encounter challenges such as sample preparation, optical alignment, and managing large datasets. Preparing samples that are both transparent and stable is crucial for achieving clear images, and this can require specialized clearing techniques. Proper alignment of the light sheet and detection objectives is essential for optimal imaging, often necessitating fine adjustments and calibration. Additionally, since light sheet microscopy generates extensive 3D data, managing and analyzing these large datasets can be demanding, making familiarity with specialized software and robust data storage solutions important. Collaborating closely with imaging specialists and data analysts within the team can help address these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Light Sheet Microscopy vs Microscopy Technician?

AspectLight Sheet MicroscopyMicroscopy Technician
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in biology, physics, or related fields; specialized training in microscopy techniquesAssociate or bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related fields; technical training in microscopy
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companies with advanced imaging equipmentLaboratories, hospitals, research institutions operating various microscopy systems
Industry UsageResearch and development, biological imaging, neuroscienceSample preparation, equipment maintenance, imaging operation

While Light Sheet Microscopy involves operating advanced imaging systems for high-resolution 3D imaging, Microscopy Technicians focus on maintaining and operating various microscopy equipment, including light microscopes. Both roles require technical skills, but Light Sheet Microscopy specialists typically have more specialized training and work on complex imaging projects.

More about Light Sheet Microscopy jobs
What cities are hiring for Light Sheet Microscopy jobs? Cities with the most Light Sheet Microscopy job openings:
What states have the most Light Sheet Microscopy jobs? States with the most job openings for Light Sheet Microscopy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Light Sheet Microscopy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,160 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Research Specialist - Red-Horse Lab

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Primary Work Address: Beckman Center, Stanford, CA, 94305-5323Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

We are currently seeking a proactive, self-motivated Research Specialist to perform mouse cardiovascular surgeries, manage imaging equipment, participate in research projects, and assist in the day-to-day operations of Dr. Kristy Red-Horse's lab on-site at Stanford University. The Red-Horse lab studies how coronary vessels of the heart develop during embryogenesis and how they regenerate following cardiac injury. Their long-term goal is to discover novel developmental mechanisms while contributing knowledge towards the advancement of clinical treatments for cardiovascular disease. The Red-Horse lab is a medium-sized, collaborative group of students, postdocs, and research technicians that foster a culture of collaboration and support. More information about the lab and their research can be found at http://redhorselab.com/.

About the role:

The Research Specialist will be a key contributor - serving as the lab's mouse surgeon and helping drive various research projects related to cardiovascular remodeling and regeneration.They will also manage key sophisticated imaging equipment, such as light sheet and confocal microscopes, and contribute to overall lab organization. The chosen candidate will be good with their hands, have experience with mouse experiments, and be open to learning new mouse surgical procedures. They will also have experience with state-of-the-art imaging equipment. The Research Specialist will also be included on research publications and have the opportunity to attend seminars for professional development and networking.

What we provide:
  • A highly motivated and creative cardiovascular lab

  • In-house state-of-the-art confocal and light sheet microscopes with high-capacity image analysis

  • Opportunity to lead research projects and publish

  • Large, comfortable lab in an interdisciplinary research building at Stanford University

  • Highly collaborative research project interfacing with the larger Stanford community

  • Weekly group meetings with enthusiastically engaged Investigator and lab members

  • Beautiful Bay Area location with competitive salary and easy access to San Francisco, the coast and Silicon Valley

What you'll do:

Research/Scientific Support (approximately 70%)

  • Undergo professional training with current trainees for mouse myocardial infarction models and perform these with and for current lab members.

  • Manage an independent research project focused on mouse coronary regeneration.

Operations/Administrative Management (approximately 30%)

  • Oversee use and trainings for light sheet and confocal microscopes as well as FACS machine.

  • Coordinate with building management on issues related to this equipment.

  • Contact third-party vendors/organizations for equipment purchase and repair.

  • Work with Research Technician to help oversee overall lab organization

What you bring:
  • Master's or PhD in biological sciences is required with a degree focus in cell and tissue biology with significant experience in mouse models.

  • One year of experience as a Research Specialist I or equivalent (Five years of related work experience).

  • Strong desire to pursue rigorous and high-impact cardiovascular biology research

  • Proficiency with standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, genotyping, immunohistochemistry, etc.) is required.

  • Previous experience with mouse colony management is required. Comfort and ability to work with and handle live mice is required.

  • Previous experience with microscopy techniques (confocal and/or light sheet in particular) is required.

  • Any experience with mouse cardiac injury models would be a plus.

  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills with a high level of attention to detail, strong verbal and written communication abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.).

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Compensation Range

$76,680.00 (minimum) - $95,800.00 (midpoint) - $124,560.00 (maximum)

Pay Type:

Annual

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.