In all microscopy modalities, the resolution and quality of the images obtained are fundamentally limited by the optics, the photo-physics of molecular probes, and sensor technology. Recent developments such as super-resolution microscopy can allow researchers to circumvent these limits through clever experimental strategies followed by sophisticated image reconstruction.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly important tool for this image reconstruction step. The feature that makes AI so attractive for many applications is the ability to make predictions by use of a “black box”. For scientific applications, however, this black box causes a serious dilemma: what is gained in performance is lost in the interpretability of the solution. Also lost is the ability to integrate existing physical knowledge of the system.

The Ph.D. position aims to open the black box of AI and develop methodologies for context-independent, knowledge-based learning of imaging systems that will address fundamental challenges in all quantitative imaging applications.

Department

IRIS Lab is a Delft Artificial Intelligence Lab. Artificial intelligence, data, and digitalization are becoming increasingly important when looking for answers to major scientific and societal challenges. In a DAI-lab, experts in ‘the fundamentals of AI technology’ along with experts in ‘AI challenges’ run a shared lab. As a Ph.D., you will work with at least two academic members of staff and three other Ph.D. candidates. In total, TU Delft will establish 24 DAI-Labs where 48 Tenure Trackers and 96 Ph.D. candidates will have the opportunity to push the boundaries of science by using AI. Each team is driven by research questions that arise from scientific and societal challenges and contribute to the development and execution of domain-specific education. Instead of the usual 4-year contract, you will receive a 5-year contract. Approximately a fifth of your time will be allocated to developing groundbreaking learning materials and educating students in these new subjects. The experience you will gain by teaching will be invaluable for future career prospects. All team members have many opportunities for self-development. You will work in a multi-disciplinary and diverse team and be a member of the thriving DAI-Lab community that fosters cross-fertilization between talents with different expertise and disciplines.

• Experience in programming and a passion for tinkering with code;
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills (verbal and written) in English;
• A master’s degree or equivalent in physics, computer science, control, or similar;
• An affinity with teaching and guiding students.

Fixed-term contract: 5 years.

TU Delft offers DAI-Lab PhD-candidates a 5-year contract (as opposed to the normal 4-years), with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to €3217 in the fifth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Other benefits:

• Paid vacation 232 hours (when working 38 hours a week).
• Partially paid parental leave.
• On TU Delft campus there is an international day care centre and an international primary school.
• The international secondary school is located close to campus.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.