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

The University of Zurich: Join Our Dynamic Team

The University of Zurich, as Switzerland's largest university, offers a variety of exciting positions across diverse subject areas and professional fields. With approximately 10,000 employees and currently hosting 12 professional apprenticeship streams, we provide an inspiring working environment focused on cutting-edge research and top-tier education. Bring your talent and skills to work with us and discover more about UZH as an employer!

Your Responsibilities

As a PhD Student at BORL, you will become part of a team dedicated to developing an imager based on near-infrared optical tomography (NIROT). This advanced tool aims to non-invasively assess brain oxygenation in both preterm and term neonates. These sensitive patients often face challenges in adequately regulating their oxygen levels, potentially leading to brain lesions and long-term disabilities. Our objective is to create an imaging device that not only aids in preventing these serious complications but is also applicable to a wider range of tissues and patients.

Your work will concentrate on developing advanced image reconstruction algorithms for the NIROT system, facilitating accurate and quantitative imaging of brain oxygenation within a clinical intensive care setting. Key tasks will include:

• Implementing forward models, such as the diffusion equation.
• Utilizing inverse solvers, incorporating various optimization algorithms and machine learning approaches.
• Conducting validation 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 supported by a grant from SNF and is in collaboration with the EPFL.

Your Profile

We seek a PhD candidate with a master's degree in applied mathematics, physics, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computational science, or a related field, who has a strong interest in solving inverse problems and image reconstruction for diffuse optical tomography. Essential skills include:

• Proficiency in numerical methods (finite element/discrete ordinate methods, iterative solvers, regularization techniques).
• Expertise in implementation using Python/MATLAB, including machine learning frameworks like 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/clinical datasets is advantageous.

Language requirements include fluency in English, with German being a valuable asset. 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, you can contact:

Dr. Alexander Kalyanov
alexander.kalyanov@uzh.ch