Fluorescence Imaging at Intuitive
Expanding what surgeons can see—and what’s possible in surgery
Robotics. Imaging science. Drug development. At Intuitive, the Fluorescence Imaging team is bringing together these disciplines to help surgeons see what was once invisible.
This team is developing fluorescence imaging agents designed to work seamlessly with Intuitive’s robotic platforms and Firefly imaging technology. The agents have the potential to highlight critical anatomy and disease in real time—giving surgeons clearer information at the moment decisions matter most and helping improve outcomes for patients.
These agents are built to complement the robotic systems already used by surgeons around the world.
What we’re working on
Fluorescence imaging agents are designed to illuminate specific structures or pathology during surgery when viewed through near-infrared imaging. Used alongside da Vinci robotic procedures, they allow surgeons to switch between standard white light and fluorescence to gain additional insight—without disrupting their workflow.
Our team is advancing investigational programs focused on:
- Visualizing the ureter during gynecologic and colorectal procedures to help reduce the risk of accidental injury
- Identifying prostate cancer intraoperatively, including residual disease that may not be visible under white light alone
These programs are in clinical development and being evaluated through FDA-regulated trials. While still investigational, they reflect a broader goal: helping surgeons operate with greater confidence and precision, using tools designed specifically for the realities of the operating room.
Why this work is different
Fluorescence Imaging sits at the intersection of multiple disciplines—and that’s what makes the work we do both challenging and rewarding.
- We’re building capabilities across clinical development, manufacturing, quality, and regulatory strategy.
- There’s no established playbook. From clinical endpoints to regulatory pathways, much of this work involves defining new standards rather than following existing ones.
- It’s deeply integrated with robotic-assisted surgery. These imaging agents are not standalone products; they’re designed to work hand-in-hand with Intuitive’s platforms and imaging systems.
- The impact is tangible. Every decision connects back to patients, their disease outcomes, and surgical precision..
For people who enjoy working at the frontier—where science, engineering, and patient care come together—this team offers a rare opportunity.
How we work together
Fluorescence Imaging is intentionally cross-functional. Progress depends on close collaboration across clinical development, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, imaging science, manufacturing, and engineering.
Teams are small, agile, highly accountable, and deeply collaborative. People are encouraged to bring their expertise to the table—and to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and learn from one another. Success here comes from shared ownership, open dialogue, and a willingness to work through complexity together.
While drug development timelines are long, the day-to-day work is anything but static. New data, new questions, and new decisions surface constantly, keeping the work dynamic and intellectually engaging.
Who thrives on this team
There’s no single background that defines Fluorescence Imaging. Our team includes people who have built careers in pharma, biotech, medical devices, imaging, chemistry, physics, and clinical research.
People who tend to thrive here:
- Are comfortable navigating ambiguity and novel problems
- Enjoy collaborating across disciplines
- Bring deep expertise, paired with curiosity and humility
- Are motivated by long-term impact, not just quick wins
- Want to help shape something new within an established, mission-driven company
If you’re excited by the idea of helping define what comes next—rather than simply executing what’s already been done—you’ll find that mindset shared here.
“When we can help surgeons visualize and remove tumors more precisely, it creates real value for patients. That’s our goal—and it’s what makes us proud of the work we do.”
Senior Clinical Project Manager
“This is a great place to build broad experience across drug and device development. You really get to touch every stage and learn how it all comes together. ”
Sr. Project Manager
“The technology we’re developing has the potential to transform the standard of care. It could have broad global impact, improving outcomes for patients facing some of the most challenging diseases.”
VP and Business Leader, Fluorescence Imaging
“Our work uniquely brings together hardware and pharmaceutical innovation. It’s deeply aligned with our mission—and has the potential to make a meaningful impact for patients.”
VP and Business Leader, Fluorescence Imaging
“We operate like a startup within a stable, innovation-driven company. It’s a rare opportunity to build something new while having the resources and support of a global leader.”
VP and Business Leader, Fluorescence Imaging
Join us
As the team grows, the focus remains the same: rigorous science, thoughtful collaboration, and solutions designed around real clinical needs.
Whether your background is in clinical development, regulatory strategy, manufacturing, imaging science, or a related field, joining this team means contributing to work that could shape the future of surgery, and help doctors change lives.
Explore open roles and help expand what’s possible in robotic-assisted surgery.
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