PostDoc for optical diffraction tomography for tumor histology

This project aims to create high resolution 3D images of optically cleared clinical tissue samples (e.g. biopsies) with optical diffraction tomography (ODT) for clinical diagnosis. The research will involve work on the biochemistry of optical tissue clearing and imaging of (clinically relevant) tissues using an existing set-up. The post-doc will perform proof of principle experiments that show the potential of ODT for 3D digital imaging of large volume tissue resections, compare the results to conventional histology, and translate the results to a clinical environment.  

The research will partly be performed at the Department of Imaging Physics at the faculty of Applied Sciences of the Delft University of Technology where the focus will be on the tomographic and microscopic imaging, under the supervision of dr. Jeroen Kalkman.

The clinical oriented research part focusing on tissue processing will be carried out in the Pathology department of the Erasmus Medical Center under the supervision of dr. Martin van Royen. The post-doc will be located at both institutions. This project is part of an Erasmus-TU Delft convergence program that aims to stimulate medical technology innovation and foster clinical-technological collaboration. It is also part of a larger effort in the Cancer Diagnostics 3.0 program. 

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with a strong ‘engineering spirit’ in combination with experience in (molecular) biology laboratories. She/he has a demonstrable interest in optical imaging, tissue engineering, image processing, and clinical research. Excellent analytical skills and a mindset towards cooperation with clinicians and clinical application of the technology are highly recommended. The candidate should hold a PhD in a relevant field.

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 as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 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.

The position has a fixed-term contract of 2 years.