- Development of s-SNOM for biomedical applications (Open)

Scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM) is a technology for infrared (IR) nanoimaging that overcomes the diffraction limit and provides a spatial resolution that is 1000x better than that of conventional IR imaging. This capability makes s-SNOM well suited for the structural and chemical characterization of modern nanomaterials. Currently, s-SNOM is being explored for a new application line: IR nanoimaging of cells. What is fascinating about s-SNOM is this: with just light, we can reach resolutions that are close to electron microscopy. What’s more: s-SNOM can measure the chemical composition inside of cells on the nanoscale, which could provide new ways to study mechanism of disease such as neurodegenerative diseases or cancer. Only little work has been done so far in this new research field. We are a group of s-SNOM developers with a background mostly in physics and a bit in chemistry, and now we want to explore this new research field further!

We offer a fully funded 3-4 years PhD positions to develop and explore s-SNOM for biomedical imaging of cells and other soft matter samples. Specifically, we will focus on the following aspects:

• To improve the s-SNOM microscope by implementing new detection methods in our state-of-the-art optics labs.
• To provide proof-of-principle demonstrations of s-SNOM for the label-free characterization of cells and other soft matter samples, in collaboration with our local and international partners.
• To understand the image contrast through numerical calculations of s-SNOM using modern optical solvers on the DIPC cluster.

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 IR spectroscopy or similar equipment.
• Data processing using Matlab, Python or similar. 
• Basic knowledge of digital pathology and/or cell biology is welcome, too 
• 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.

• Contract duration: 1 year (possibility to extend up to 4 years)
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2025/05/01

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.

Our group 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.

• Reference: 2025/10
• Application deadline: 2025/04/21
• 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.

“Ayuda RYC2023-044188-I financiada por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 y por el FSE+”