Research Collaborator - R&D for Novel Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scanners (Open)

Positron-emission tomography (PET) is a powerful imaging technique that plays a pivotal role in medical diagnostics, utilizing positron-emitting radionuclides to track biologically active molecules. The annihilation of positrons and electrons produces gamma rays, which are detected to create detailed images of functional processes within the body.

Commercial PET scanners typically employ arrays of several thousand pixel-sized crystals. These crystals emit light when excited by ionizing radiation, such as the gamma rays produced in PET. In modern devices, this light is detected by solid-state photosensors and pixel size thus sets the spatial resolution of the device.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to lead the investigation of an alternative approach: replacing pixelated crystal arrays with larger, monolithic crystals read out by an array of solid-state photosensors. This design significantly simplifies detector assembly and reduces production costs. While monolithic crystals have historically been limited by the difficulty of reconstructing the gamma interaction point, recent advances in machine learning for image processing open a path toward monolithic PET detectors matching or exceeding the performance of pixelated systems. In parallel, we are exploring alternative scintillator materials, including cryogenic CsI, to further spatial and energy resolution.

• PhD in physics, engineering, or a related field, completed or nearing completion.
• Demonstrated R&D experience in PET detector technology or closely related radiation detection instrumentation.
• Familiarity with scintillator crystals, SiPMs, and associated front-end electronics is a plus.

• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/09/14

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.

The Neutrino Physics Group at DIPC develops and operates the NEXT experiment, a neutrinoless double beta decay Xe detector installed in Canfranc, Spain. The group also contributes to Hyper-Kamiokande, a large-scale neutrino detector under construction in Japan, and to next-generation neutrino detectors for the upcoming European Spallation Source.

Beyond neutrino physics, the group is active in PET detector R&D through the CRYSP and PETALO projects. Building these instruments raises complex scientific, technological, and industrial challenges, and DIPC is consolidating a multidisciplinary team to tackle them and coordinate collaboration with academic and industrial partners.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

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: 2026/37
• Application deadline: 2026/08/31
• 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 (40%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (40%)
• 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.