Cryo EM/ET Research Associate

Berkeley Labs ( LBNL ) Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division ( MBIB ) has an opening for a Research Associate to perform semi-routine research assignments, including the development of deep learning-based denoising frameworks and sub-tomogram alignment for cryo-electron tomography datasets, to support the analysis of the performance of various denoising algorithms. This role will assist with developing and testing segmentation-based tools for the alignment of X-ray tomography data.

This position has an anticipated start date of September 1, 2025.

What You Will Do:

• Test cryoCARE, IsoNET, deepDeWedge, and Topaz for denoising and missing-data compensation in simulated and experimental cryoET data.
• Run sub-tomogram alignment and averaging for reconstruction of 3D density on the datasets.
• Assist in developing segmentation-based tools for alignment of center-of-rotation and tilt of rotation axis in X-ray tomography data.
• Maintain an accurate and detailed scientific notebook of all numerical experiments performed and document results for a publication.

• Assist in developing spatial redundancy transformers for denoising.

What is Required:

• A Bachelors Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Computational Biology, or related field and a minimum of 1 year of experience with basic coding skills in Python and pyTorch or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Familiarity with the theory of tomography and microscopy.
• Familiarity with analysis software for Cryo EM/ET (Relion, IMOD, STA).
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to maintain detailed and accurate laboratory documents and records.
• Effective interpersonal skills include the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary laboratory environment.

Notes:

• Application Deadline: For full consideration, please apply with a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter describing your interest by Monday, August 25, 2025.
• Appointment Type: This is a full time, non-exempt from overtime (hourly paid), 6 month, Term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• Salary Information: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes and is expected to pay $25.14 - $32.05 per hour for job code 381.1. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidates qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group (if applicable, and union contract agreement).
• Background Check: This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, located at 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here ).
• Relocation Assistance: This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• Eligibility: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or transfer now or in the future (e.g., H-1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.). You must be legally authorized to work in the United States to be considered for this position.

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Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.