Job Description
Optical nanoscopy is a microscopy technique used to study subcellular structures and their function through targeted fluorescent labels in molecular biology. Among various techniques, localisation microscopy has a much better resolution (~10-50 nm) than conventional diffraction-limited microscopy (~250 nm). The current project aims to improve the resolution of optical light microscopes even further, aiming for 1 nm.
The researcher will join a team of experimentalists and theorists with the common goal of achieving nanometer-scale imaging. They will focus on simulation and theory of image formation and parameter estimation. The image formation is based on the 4pi microscope, where self-interference of fluorescent emission helps estimate the axial position of a single emitter with nanometer precision. The emission light is split into four channels, and the respective intensities indicate the axial position. If the emitter is free to rotate during a camera frame, a rotationally symmetric point spread function (PSF) is recorded. However, if the emitter is fixed, the PSF reflects the dipole character of the emission and depends on the emitter's 3D orientation. In addition, field-dependent aberrations influence the PSF's shape, requiring the estimation model to reflect the imaging process and include all relevant parameters. The team will use their expertise in (maximum likelihood) estimation theory and Cramer-Rao lower bound analysis to find the best way to optimize localization precision. The results will set requirements on the tolerances for objective alignment and beam path to achieve the optimal localization precision.
Requirements
The candidate must hold a Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics and must have a strong background in optics, image formation modeling or simulation. Excellent analytical skills are essential. Good programming capabilities are expected. Experience in the fields of light microscopy, aberration theory or polarization imaging are beneficial but not required.
Conditions of Employment
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.
The position has a fixed-term contract of 2 years with range salary of € 2.960,00 - € 4.670,00
Application Procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply via the application button and upload the following information in English (pdf format only):
- Letter of motivation (generic letters will be disregarded),
- Detailed CV with publication list,
- Three names of potential references
- This job posting will remain open until filled.
A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure. Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
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