Optical nanoscopy is a powerful super-resolution technique used in molecular biology to study subcellular structures and function via specifically targeted fluorescent labels. Localisation microscopy in particular offers a much better resolution (~10-50 nm) than conventional microscopy (~250 nm). This project aims at shifting the resolution obtainable in an optical light microscope even further towards 1 nm.
In this project we want to further push the limit with which one can localise single molecules in a conceptual manner. Next to our activities in imaging at cryogenic temperatures to acquire one order of magnitude more photons than at room temperatures, we want to pursue techniques to incorporate additional prior knowledge into the localisation. The estimation algorithm must be able to utilise this extra information resulting in lower (position) uncertainties. Next to a theoretical study on the possibilities of this idea, the candidate should initiate, coordinate, and conduct proof-of-principle experiments within the team.

The candidate must hold a PhD degree in physics or electrical engineering and have a strong background in modelling and simulation relevant to the research outlined above. Excellent analytical skills are essential. Experience with numerical simulations and good programming capabilities are expected. The candidate will be interacting with experimentalists on a daily basis and is expected to conduct experiments independently, so affinity with measurements in microscopy/optics is expected. Experience with chemical physics and/or (Bayesian) statistics is beneficial but not required.

Fixed-term contract: 24 months.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers child care and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

For more information about this position, please contact Prof. Bernd Rieger, phone: +31 (0)15-2788574, e-mail: B.Rieger@tudelft.nl. To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV and letter of application in English as a PDF by 20 December 2017 to Annelies van Beek, a.vanbeek-3@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number TNWIP17-061.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (the TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

http://www.tudelft.nl

Applied Sciences

The position is in the Department of Imaging Physics of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. This department performs cutting-edge research spanning the range from understanding the basic principles underlying imaging technology to automated image analysis.

The post-doctoral researcher will work under the guidance of Bernd Rieger and Sjoerd Stallinga, who are leading a prominent international research activity in the field of optical nanoscopy. They focus especially on computational microscopy that is the intersection between the fundamentals and engineering of optical imaging systems and image processing algorithms.