Postdoctoral Research Assistant - Advanced Optical Microscopy Development

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant (Grade 7, Fixed Term for 24 months) to develop the next generation of light-sheet microscopes for biomedical imaging. The successful candidate will be involved in all steps of the process, from design to implementation and application. The central aim of this research is to overcome the imaging depth limit in biological microscopy. Inhomogeneities within biological samples affect the path of the light entering and exiting the specimen of interest, thus preventing a sharp, high resolution, image.

Your priorities will include:

The design and optimization of optical imaging systems. This includes optics, mechanics, interfacing, as well as software for control and data processing;
The simulation of novel optical systems using custom software;
The construction, alignment, and critical evaluation of proof-of-principle optical instruments in the laboratory;
Close liaison with collaborators, including the installation and testing of instruments at other laboratories;
Analysis of experimental data, testing of hypotheses, and producing publication-ready figures

Who we’re looking for:

Completed a PhD, or be close to completion, in physics, engineering, or related discipline;
Experience with the design and implementation of optical imaging systems;
Capable of modifying and optimising existing designs and imaging instruments;
A track record of scientific publication commensurate with experience;
Evidence of initiative in the formulation, planning, and implementation of research activities

The School of Science and Engineering comprises the disciplines of: Biomedical, Civil, Electronic, and Mechanical Engineering; Computing; Mathematics; Physics; and the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification (CAHID). We host the Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, which has been designed to disrupt positively the forensic-science ecosystem.

The School benefits from superb research infrastructure, substantial opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the University’s established excellence in delivering undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses. Excellence in teaching and research consistently leads to impressive National Student Survey scores and a Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014) profile marking Civil Engineering, General Engineering (encompassing Physics) and Mathematics all 1st in Scotland and in the top 10 in the UK. Computing and CAHID also deliver world-leading research with impact.

Physics at the University of Dundee is truly distinctive. We currently focus in the areas of:

Computational and theoretical biophysics;
Astrophysics;
Complex photonics, lasers, and biophotonics;
Experimental biophysics;
Materials physics, energy and functional materials, and transport in disordered materials;
Spectroscopy (positron physics and magnetic resonance) and imaging of materials;
Renewable energy

We are one of the UK’s leading universities – internationally recognised for our expertise across a range of disciplines and research breakthroughs in multiple areas, including science, medicine and engineering, amongst many others. Conveniently located on the banks of River Tay, our main city-centre campus is at the heart of Dundee - an up-and-coming, friendly, compact and affordable city with a rich heritage in design and technology. We also have campuses at Ninewells Hospital and in Kirkcaldy which are easily accessible via local transport links.