PhD Candidate in Medical Imaging and Image Reconstruction for Near-Infrared Optical Tomography of the Head of Newborns

The University of Zurich Job Opportunity

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a variety of exciting positions across multiple subject areas and professional fields. With approximately 10,000 employees and 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University provides an inspiring working environment focused on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Join us and leverage your talents and skills in an engaging educational setting. Discover more about UZH as an employer!

Your Responsibilities

As a PhD Student at BORL, you will contribute to the development of an imager based on near-infrared optical tomography (NIROT). This innovative technology aims to non-invasively image brain oxygenation in both preterm and term neonates. These highly sensitive patients often struggle to adequately adjust their oxygenation levels, which can lead to brain lesions and long-term disabilities. By creating this imaging instrument, we hope to advance treatment options and prevent serious complications. Moreover, this instrument will be applicable to various other tissues and patient groups.

Your primary focus will be on developing advanced image reconstruction algorithms for the NIROT system, enabling precise and quantitative imaging of brain oxygenation within a clinical intensive care environment. Key tasks include:

• Implementing forward models (e.g., diffusion equation)
• Developing inverse solvers (e.g., various optimization algorithms, machine learning approaches)
• Validating on phantoms and clinical data from human volunteers and patients
• Integrating data from collaborative projects

Additionally, you will be responsible for preparing detailed documentation and manuals in English. This project is based on a grant from SNF and involves collaboration with the EPFL.

Your Profile

We seek a motivated PhD candidate with a master's degree in applied mathematics, physics, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computational science, or a related field. A strong interest in solving inverse problems and image reconstruction for diffuse optical tomography is essential. Key qualifications include:

• Proficiency in numerical methods (finite element/discrete ordinate methods, iterative solvers, regularization techniques)
• Experience implementing solutions in Python/MATLAB, including machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow for data-driven reconstruction
• Experience with time-resolved optical data, mathematical modeling of light propagation (diffusion equation, Monte Carlo simulations), and validation on phantoms or clinical datasets is advantageous

Fluency in English is required, and proficiency in German is a plus. We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For more information, please reach out to:

Dr. Alexander Kalyanov
alexander.kalyanov@uzh.ch