Wavefront shaping microscopy and photoacoustics

The Prevedel group in Heidelberg https://www.prevedel.embl.de/ is seeking a postdoc with an applied physics and/or engineering background to work on advanced imaging techniques for applications in biology and neuroscience. In particular, the candidate will work on the development of new optical instrumentation with a particular emphasis on optical wavefront shaping as well as photo-acoustic sensing. Additionally, the successful candidate will team-up with chemists as well as various biologists to apply the advances to current scientific questions.

This project is part of a recently funded Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative Deep-Tissue grant, and performed in close collaboration with the Deo group at EMBL, the Gigan/deAguiar groups in Paris and the Stiel lab in Munich. The successful candidate is expected to take a strong lead on his/her project and start to develop independent ideas. Our multidisciplinary lab provides an innovative, dynamic and constructive working environment for this purpose. More information about the Prevedel group can be found here:www.prevedel.embl.de

Specific role:
• Design of mechanical, optical as well as electronic and software components of novel, custom-built wavefront shaping microscopes to image in deep biological tissues.
• Development of wavefront control strategies as well as the integration into bespoke photoacoustic microscopes.
• Incorporate computational imaging methods into instrument’s operational workflow.
• Demonstration of new imaging technologies in close collaboration with other team members and biologists.
• Dissemination of research results in scientific publications and presentations at international conferences.

Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidate should have a PhD (or equivalent qualification) in physics,
engineering, or equivalent field of study, with a solid background in optics/photonics preferably with prior experience in optical wavefront shaping and/or photo-acoustics. The candidate should ideally have experience in building and aligning complex optical setups, must be comfortable with complex technical equipment (including pulsed lasers; spatial light modulators, digital micromirror devices, deformable mirrors) and preferably possess advanced computer skills for programming hardware control (Matlab, Python, LabView, or similar) and/or simulation skills (CAD, ZEMAX, or similar). A keen interest in biological applications of new optical technologies as well as experience in supervising students and laboratory organization would be an
advantage.

The successful candidate should be able to work independently, be very well
organized, reliable and enjoy working in an international team within a highly
collaborative atmosphere. Excellent communication and presentation skills, a high level of motivation and fluency in English are required.