- Infrared nanospectroscopy of cell sections (Open)

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy allows for structural and chemical characterization of materials. This capability is particularly interesting for the label-free imaging of cell and tissue section, which finds application for digital pathology and has strong potential for clinical translation. However, the spatial resolution is limited by diffraction to the micrometer scale and thus insufficient to resolve the nanoscale heterogeneity of biological cell and tissue samples. To overcome this limit, IR nano-imaging and IR nano-spectroscopy techniques have been developed. Scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM), and its derivate, nano-Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy (nano-FTIR) are particularly promising methods for this purpose. This project aims at establishing s-SNOM/nano-FTIR for the ultrastructural characterization of cell and tissue sections. This topic is still widely unexplored, but highly relevant as it will allows us to monitor chemical changes inside the cell when disease occurs and help us to validate conventional IR spectroscopy for digital pathology.

The following activities are foreseen in this PhD project, which can be tailed to the interests of the PhD candidate:

• Work with state-of-the-art IR nanospectroscopy equipment to obtain nano-IR spectra of cell cuts
• Learn to use machine learning algorithms for data classification
• Use modern optical solves to calculate IR (nano)spectroscopy and improve our understanding of the data
• Write scientific articles and present your results at (inter)national conferences

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. You should also be able to work independently, are a self-motivated and well organized person and able to work in a team. Experience in the following areas is welcome:

Knowledge in optics and nanooptics:

• Experience with IR spectroscopy, Raman microscopy or similar
• Data processing using Matlab, Python or similar
• Basic knowledge of digital pathology and/or cell biology is welcome, too, but not required
• A good level in written and spoken English is a mandatory prerequisite.

• 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: 2025/01/01

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.

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: 2024/40
• Application deadline: 2024/12/04
• 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+”