Your group The Prevedel group in Heidelberg is seeking a postdoc with an applied physics and/or engineering background to work on advanced imaging techniques for applications in biology and neuroscience. In particular, the candidate will work on the development of new optical instrumentation with a particular emphasis on optical wavefront shaping as well as photo-acoustic sensing. Additionally, the successful candidate will team-up with chemists as well as various biologists to apply the advances to current scientific questions. This project is part of a recently funded Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative Deep-Tissue grant, and performed in close collaboration with the Deo group at EMBL, the Gigan/deAguiar groups in Paris and the Stiel lab in Munich. The successful candidate is expected to take a strong lead on his/her project and start to develop independent ideas. Our multi-disciplinary lab provides an innovative, dynamic and constructive working environment for this purpose. More information about the Prevedel group can be found here: www.prevedel.embl.de Your role • Design of mechanical, optical as well as electronic and software components of novel, custom-built wavefront shaping microscopes to image in deep biological tissues. • Development of wavefront control strategies as well as the integration into bespoke photoacoustic microscopes. • Incorporate computational imaging methods into instrument’s operational workflow. • Demonstration of new imaging technologies in close collaboration with other team members and biologists. • Dissemination of research results in scientific publications and presentations at international conferences. You have The ideal candidate should have a PhD (or equivalent qualification) in physics, engineering, or equivalent field of study, with a solid background in optics/photonics preferably with prior experience in optical wavefront shaping and/or photo-acoustics. The candidate should ideally have experience in building and aligning complex optical setups, must be comfortable with complex technical equipment (including pulsed lasers; spatial light modulators, digital micromirror devices, deformable mirrors) and preferably possess advanced computer skills for programming hardware control (Matlab, Python, LabView, or similar) and/or simulation skills (CAD, ZEMAX, or similar). A keen interest in biological applications of new optical technologies as well as experience in supervising students and laboratory organization would be an advantage. The successful candidate should be able to work independently, be very well organized, reliable and enjoy working in an international team within a highly collaborative atmosphere. Excellent communication and presentation skills, a high level of motivation and fluency in English are required. Contract length: The contract is initially limited to 3 years; an extension is possible. Salary: Professional development support The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites. Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service with provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you. To find out more please visit - EMBL-fellows-career-service Why join us Join a culture of innovation We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential. Enjoy lots of employee benefits: Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work (Heidelberg), on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely) Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances Wha t else you need to know International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants. Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we strongly believe that inclusive and diverse teams benefit from higher levels of innovation and creative thought. We encourage applications from women, LGBTQ & individuals from all nationalities. Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you. EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date. Closing Date 23/03/2025