Research Assistant - Detection and characterization of nanoparticles in biological cells and tissue using advanced microscopy techniques (Open)

In neurobiological research, engineered nanoparticles are used as next-generation tools to precisely record, modulate, and image neural activity at the cellular level. We need to understand how these particles distribute and persist within complex tissue to ensure both their biological safety and their efficacy during optical stimulation and targeted therapeutics.

The goal of this PhD project is to develop and apply advanced microscopy methods that can detect and characterize nanoparticles in biological cells and tissue. Specifically, you will explore optical phase imaging and IR nanoimaging to locate nanoparticles inside the biological cells and tissue. A key focus will be the measurement of the local temperature increase as a result of optical stimulation of the nanoparticles.

We will approach this project from the physical perspective, applying an experimental approach by building and testing optical microscopy platforms. At the same time, there is opportunity for theoretical model using numerical solvers to simulate optical microscopy. This project will fully integrate into the nanoneuro project and the Basque nanoneuro Network (B3N). As a result, you will work closely with other local research groups working on the topics of nanotechnology and neurotechnologies, allowing you to both benefit from and contribute to their expertise.

We offer a fully funded 3-to-4 years PhD position to develop and explore advanced microscopy methods for the detection of nanoparticles inside of cells and tissue. The prospective start date is as soon as the application call concludes, with flexibility to adjust the exact date to accommodate the candidate’s availability. Specifically, you will focus on the following core areas:

• Building and testing quantitative optical phase microscopy in our state-of-the-art optical labs at the DIPC
• Applying these methods to the localization of nanoparticles and for the temperature measurements in cells and tissue
• Simulating optical microscopy using numerical solves using the high performance computing platform at the DIP

Come and join us at the DIPC to pursue your PhD thesis in our international research environment!

The PhD candidate should hold an internationally recognized Master degree (or equivalent) in Physics or a related field. The candidate should have a clear motivation and skill to perform experimental work. Experience in the following areas is welcome:

• Knowledge in optics and nanooptics
• Experience with optical microscopy, phase contrast or quantitative phase imaging, optical spectroscopy or similar equipment
• Data processing using Matlab, Python or similar
• Basic knowledge in the fields of cell biology and neurobioscience is welcome, but not required
• A good level in written and spoken English is a mandatory prerequisite
• You should be able to work independently, are a self-motivated person and able to work in a team.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/10/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

research group led by Dr. Aitzol Garcia-Etxarri explores the physics of materials and their interactions with light at the nanoscale. While our core research is rooted in fundamental science, we actively aim to translate our discoveries into practical solutions, particularly for biomedical applications and quantum technologies. Our key areas of investigation include the interaction of light with nanoparticles and chiral molecules, the topological aspects of light propagation in photonic crystals, and the application of nanophotonics to the field of neuroscience. Learn more about our work and team at nanowaves.dipc.org.

The research group led by Dr. Martin Schnell seeks to develop highly sensitive IR nanospectroscopy technology and apply it to address imaging challenges in the biomedical field. We also engage in optical modeling of IR nanospectroscopy to provide a framework for better understanding the recorded spectral data and improve image quality, as well as maintain a general interest in the interaction of light with matter molecular vibrations.

Interested candidates: please provide a brief statement of interest (1 page max) where you explain your academic background, your research interests, why you would like to do a PhD at the DIPC, how you think you can contribute and what your long-term career goals are.

Please also provide an updated CV and a transcript of records of your Master’s degree. Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/32
• Application deadline: 2026/09/01
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (60%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (20%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.