Scientist I Senior Scientist - Microscopy

Until is a moonshot company building reversible cryopreservation technology. We develop perfusion systems, cryoprotectant formulations, controlled-rate freezers, and vitrification and rewarming protocols for human tissue.Our focus today is organ-scale reversible cryopreservation: preserving donated organs at cryogenic temperatures without ice formation, then rewarming them uniformly for transplant. By solving this time-critical challenge, we’re laying the foundation for whole-body reversible cryopreservation — pausing molecular motion to give patients a bridge to future cures.We envision a future where no transplantable organ is lost to logistics, and no terminal diagnosis is final because patients can safely wait for future medicine to arrive. We are building out our medical hibernation team to tackle the challenge of whole-body cryopreservation beginning in rodent models.About The RoleWe are seeking a Scientist/Senior Scientist in Microscopy to design, build, and optimize advanced optical imaging systems that enable high-resolution visualization of biological structure and function. This role is central to our efforts to image cellular dynamics, tissue organization, and whole-organ structure.The ideal candidate is a hands-on experimentalist with deep expertise in optical microscopy design and functional imaging. You’ve built or customized systems such as two-photon microscopes or wide-field calcium or voltage imaging setups, and you thrive at the intersection of optics, biology, and engineering.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and construct custom optical microscopes and imaging platforms tailored to functional imaging, histology, and organ-scale analysisDesign and program embedded electronic devices for measurement and control of imaging systemWork with molecular biologists, materials scientists, and organ engineers to design experiments that leverage advanced imaging for discovery and diagnosticsDevelop imaging pipelines for histological validation, functional assays, and organ-scale structural analysis. Analyze data to quantify biological structure and function and contribute to experimental interpretationContribute to the development of novel imaging methodologies and share best practices across disciplinesStay current on emerging optical technologies and evaluate their relevance to Until’s goalsQualificationsPhD in Physics, Optical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Neuroscience, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)Proven experience building or customizing advanced microscopes, particularly two-photon or wide-field imaging systemsStrong foundation in optics, system integration, and control softwareDemonstrated ability to apply custom imaging systems to biological or physiological samplesProficiency with imaging control and analysis tools (e.g., ScanImage, Micro-Manager, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python)PreferredExperience with functional imaging of calcium or voltage dynamicsFamiliarity with live or perfused tissue imagingTrack record of developing imaging systems that transition from prototype to routine experimental useExperience with FPGA programming in VHDLPublication record in optical microscopy or functional imagingBenefitsA mission-driven environment tackling one of the hardest problems in medicineThe opportunity to build and direct a world-class imaging program from the ground upA deeply interdisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and buildersGenerous medical, dental and vision insurance coverageFlexible time off and paid holidaysCompetitive compensation package, including salary and equityAccess to a 401(k) retirement savings planFSA and commuter benefitsSubsidized lunch dailyAs an equal opportunity employer, Until is committed to providing employment opportunities to all individuals. All applicants for positions at Until will be treated without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.While this represents our expected range based on market data, final compensation will be determined based on your specific qualifications and may be outside this range. Please keep in mind that the equity portion of the offer is not included in this estimate.