The Van de Plas lab is offering postdoctoral positions in signal processing and machine learning for multimodal imaging, to build 3-D molecular atlases of human tissue. The positions have a special focus on spectral imaging modalities such as imaging mass spectrometry and multiplexed immunofluorescence microscopy, as well as on exceptionally large and high-dimensional data.

Our lab is located at the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in the Netherlands and is part of the Delft Center for Systems and Control. Our research lies at the interface between (i) mathematical engineering and machine learning; (ii) analytical chemistry and instrumentation; and (iii) life sciences and medicine. We explore new ways of acquiring, processing, and mining the massive (multi-terabyte) datasets that imaging mass spectrometry and other molecular imaging modalities commonly deliver.

Research topics of interest for these positions include:

• Signal processing (e.g. noise removal, automated feature detection, etc.);
• Dimensionality reduction and transformations (e.g. Fourier & wavelet transforms, dictionary learning, etc.);
• Pattern recognition and factorization in large datasets (e.g. non-negative matrix/tensor factorization, etc.);
• Supervised, semi-supervised, and unsupervised machine learning (e.g. multivariate regression, tumor/abscess classification, manifold learning, etc.);
• Mathematical optimization & casting problems in biology into a computer-solvable form (e.g. convex optimization, automated anatomical interpretation);
• Data mining across different imaging sensors and technologies (e.g. data-driven multimodal image fusion).

Our lab has a strong network of international collaborators in both academia and industry. Collaborators include chemistry and instrument partners, such as the Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Caprioli lab, and Spraggins lab at Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN, U.S.A.), as well as medicine and biology partners, such as the Swinnen lab at the Department of Oncology of the KU Leuven University Hospital (Leuven, Belgium).

You will have the opportunity to participate in one or more of our ongoing multidisciplinary research projects:

• Two projects within the Human BioMolecular Atlas Program (HuBMAP) of the United States’ National Institutes of Health, which aims to build a 3-D molecular atlas of the human body at single-cell resolution. One project focuses on the human kidney, while the other explores the human eye and pancreas. Both projects are in close collaboration with Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN, U.S.A.).
• Two National Institutes of Health projects on the molecular imaging of microbial communities and infectious disease, in collaboration with the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, TN, U.S.A.).
• SMART BRAIN, a FLAG-ERA JTC project in collaboration with the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) through which our lab is an associated member of Europe’s Human Brain Project Flagship.

Applicants should have:

• A PhD degree in a relevant field, i.e. Engineering, Computer Science, Systems & Control, Statistics, Computational Physics, or any domain related to the lab’s research topics.
• A background in image & signal processing, machine learning, numerical analysis, or statistics.
• Strong motivation to work in a multidisciplinary environment and interact with collaborators in medicine, biology, chemistry, and physics is essential.
• Good command of English is required.

Experience in mass spectrometry, chemistry, or biotechnology is a plus.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.703,00 - € 4.670,00 per month gross). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount 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. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

This postdoc position has a fixed-term contract of two years.

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.

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