PhD Position in Medical Imaging and Image Reconstruction for Near-Infrared Optical Tomography of the Head of Newborns (Male/Female)

PhD Student Position at the University of Zurich

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions across various disciplines and professional fields. With approximately 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University provides an inspiring working environment characterized by cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out 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) capable of non-invasively imaging brain oxygenation in both preterm and term neonates. These highly sensitive patients often struggle to adequately adjust their oxygenation levels, potentially leading to brain lesions and long-term disabilities. The aim is to create an instrument that can image brain oxygenation, thereby enabling treatments to prevent serious complications. Additionally, this instrument will have applications in various other tissues and patient populations.

Your research will focus on developing advanced image reconstruction algorithms for the NIROT system, facilitating precise and quantitative imaging of brain oxygenation in a clinical intensive care environment. This encompasses:

• Implementing forward models (e.g., diffusion equation).
• Utilizing inverse solvers (e.g., different optimization algorithms, machine learning approaches).
• Validating results with phantoms and clinical data from human participants.
• Integrating data from collaborative projects.

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

Your Profile

We are seeking a 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 skills include:

• Proficiency in numerical methods (finite element/discrete ordinate methods, iterative solvers, regularization techniques).
• Implementation skills in Python/MATLAB (including expertise in 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 or clinical datasets is advantageous.

Language requirements include fluency in English (German is an asset). We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual.

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Alexander Kalyanov
alexander.kalyanov@uzh.ch