Post-doctoral position (m/f/d) on direct laser writing of optical microsystems for endomicrosco[...]

Post-doctoral position (m/f/d) on direct laser writing of optical microsystems for endomicroscopic optical biopsy

NEU

The ERC-Synergy project Zee-Zoom-Zap invites applications for a post-doctoral researcher (m/f/d) at the Microsystems for Biomedical Imaging Group (µBIG) on monolithic 3D nano-printing of advanced endomicroscopes.

µBIG is a young and dynamic research group at the Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK). We develop innovative microsystems for manipulating light in unprecedented ways and build groundbreaking biomedical sensing and imaging tools based on them.

Zee-Zoom-Zap is an ERC-Synergy project on a new theranostic approach to pancreatic cancer. It combines early detection (zee), non-invasive biopsy (zoom), and local therapy (zap), all through optical means. A radical departure from conventional optical biopsy concepts, our project has a holistic approach founded on four closely interlinked research pillars: cancer‑specific phototheranostic probes, monolithically 3D‑printed micro‑optical catheters, novel optical imaging and therapy methods with unprecedented range and sensitivity, and novel physics‑enhanced deep learning AI models for imaging, detection, decision support, and treatment guidance. The long‑term perspective for Zee‑Zoom‑Zap is translation into the clinical setting as part of a combined population‑ and imaging‑based screening workflow for early detection of pancreatic cancer and in‑situ treatment.

You will work alongside a small team of doctoral and master's students and take part in coordinating our activities within the Zee‑Zoom‑Zap consortium. You will be asked to

• Conduct scientific research and publish in the fields of optics, photonics, microsystem technology, and biomedical imaging, including the topics
• Development of endoscopic microscopy systems for optical biopsy
• Laser‑based manufacturing of micro‑optics & optical microsystems
• Design and laser‑based manufacturing of dielectric metasurfaces
• Functional extensions of optical coherence tomography, and fluorescence microscopy
• Work closely with an interdisciplinary and international internal research team
• Collaborate with our international project partners within and outside of the Zee‑Zoom‑Zap consortium
• Contribute to the supervision of PhD, MSc and BSc students
• Actively participate in project dissemination activities, including seminars, workshops, and outreach events

Requirements:

• PhD/doctoral degree in a relevant field (experience in direct laser writing of micro‑optics, microsystem technology, or dielectric nanostructures would be a strong plus)
• Proven experience in fundamental concepts in optics and photonics
• Strong interest in clinical translation of imaging technologies
• Proven ability to publish in peer‑reviewed scientific journals, commensurate with career stage
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary, international team
• Proven proficiency in written and spoken English (German is an asset)

What we offer:

• Two‑years, full‑time contract with salary according to TV‑L E13
• A thrilling, international research project funded by one of the most prestigious grant programs in Europe
• State‑of‑the‑art research infrastructure and a vibrant ecosystem
• A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research environment at the epicentre of the beautiful Black Forest region
• Opportunities for team leading, further education, professional networking, and technology transfer
• Collaborations with international partners with frequent research visits
• Flexible working hours and support with work‑life balance

The salary will be determined in accordance with TV‑L E13.