We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher (2 years, full-time) in ultrasound imaging to develop molecular ultrasound imaging of bacterial biofilm infections on cardiac devices. Cardiac device infections such as on pacemakers, prosthetic valves, and left ventricular assist devices have high mortality rates. Accurate diagnosis of these infections at an early stage is critical because a delay in diagnosis is associated with increased mortality. Ultrasound imaging is currently the primary diagnostic modality. However, it lacks specificity and sensitivity because the signal from the bacteria is similar to the signal of healthy tissue or the cardiac device, thus making accurate diagnosis challenging. Targeted microbubbles can specifically bind to the bacterial biofilms, making ultrasound molecular imaging possible. We will develop superharmonic ultrasound molecular imaging of the targeted microbubbles with high specificity and sensitivity for transthoracic echocardiography.

You will be responsible for developing and evaluating ultrasound pulsing schemes to detect the targeted microbubbles in vitro, ex vivo on patient material, and preclinically in vivo. For this, you will closely collaborate with researchers investigating targeted microbubbles for therapy, and in consultation with experts from the Dept. of Cardiology and Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Supervision of students is expected from you.

The BUBBLE CURE project will result in a novel multidisciplinary technology that allows accurate diagnosis and treatment of cardiac device-related bacterial biofilm infections. The project is part of a new research line in translational biomedical research, made possible by a personal grant from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant agreement No 805308) to the principal investigator Dr. K. Kooiman. By combining targeted microbubbles and ultrasound we aim to develop advanced ultrasound diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for cardiac-device related bacterial biofilm infections. The full project team will comprise of 6 people and is embedded in the Biomedical Engineering group, part of the Department of Cardiology.

Expert knowledge of ultrasound pulsing schemes and ultrasound imaging including experience with open research scanners and signal processing, preferably also on ultrasound contrast agents for (molecular) imaging. Experience with preclinical studies is highly welcome. Candidates are expected to have a PhD in a relevant field, such as ultrasound imaging or related, and preferably have experience in interdisciplinary projects. You have a can-do attitude and good publication record and scientific writing skills. The research project should result in scientific publications and conference presentations.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct, a valid proof of identity, diploma's and/ or relevant registration such as BIG/ RGS are conditions for the appointment.

The project will take up to 5 years; the gross monthly salary amounts a maximum of € 4.361,- (scale 10), depending on your level of education and relevant experience and based on a full-time working week of 36 hours. The terms of employment are in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries by leading the way in research, education, and healthcare. We have access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment.

Thoraxcenter Biomedical Engineering is a group of 65 researchers performing highly innovative research in cardiovascular diagnosis and therapy. We focus on translational research in imaging with light and ultrasound, contrast agents for molecular imaging and drug delivery, and vascular biomechanics.