PostDoc position on Biomedical Optics

We are looking for a PostDoc who will work on the optical instrumentation, image analysis algorithms and technical validation on model eyes.

PostDoc position on Biomedical Optics

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Project description

Due to ageing, the impact of vision threatening diseases such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) on the health care system will only increase.

In this project we will develop techniques to quantitatively assess the oxygen saturation status of the retinal microvasculature. Reduced blood oxygen levels may lead to hypoxia, which is one of the key drivers of the formation of new blood vessels. These new blood vessels are often leaky, which leads to complications such as vision loss and, ultimately, to blindness. The development of techniques to detect the onset of retinal hypoxia will thus allow timely therapeutic interventions that will prevent vision loss.

In this project, in which VU, TNO and Heidelberg Engineering collaborate, we will develop a multi-color scanning laser ophthalmoscope (mcSLO)-based oximeter with retro-illumination capabilities. The retro-mode mcSLO will be a versatile research tool that provides freedom in the selection of imaging wavelengths and allows different implementations of light delivery and collection to and from the retina. We will develop novel image analysis algorithms for retro-mode imaging to quantify the wavelength-dependent scattering and absorption properties of the retina, from which the microvascular oxygen saturation can be calculated. The image analysis algorithms will be partly based on Monte Carlo simulations of light transport in the retina. The performance of the system and algorithms will be validated on model eyes with controlled scattering and absorption properties.

Tasks

For this project, we are looking for a PostDoc who will work on the optical instrumentation, image analysis algorithms and technical validation on model eyes. The PostDoc will develop a retro-mode illumination and detection module and integrate it into an existing custom-built mcSLO system. The PostDoc will perform tests on model eyes and analyse the results as a first technical validation of the system.

The research will be conducted at the VU. At the VU, the candidate will be part of the Biomedical Physics Group, under supervision of prof. dr. J.F. de Boer and prof. dr. A. Amelink.

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Requirements:

For this position we are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with a PhD in (applied) physics or a related field, with a strong interest in biomedical optics. Candidates should have good experimental skills and be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing. The project’s results will be presented on national and international medical and technical conferences and in relevant journals.

We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

What do we offer?

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable.

• a salary of minimum € 3.546,00 (Scale 10) and maximum € 5.538,00 (Scale 10) gross per month, on a full-time basis. This is based on UFO profile Researcher 4. The exact salary depends on your education and experience
• a position for at least 0.8 FTE. Your employment contract will initially last 1 year. Afterwards, the possibility of expansion exists

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• a full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• contribution to commuting expenses
• optional model for designing a personalized benefits package
• a wide range of sports facilities which staff may use at a modest charge

About us

About the Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at VU Amsterdam offers an active and engaged intellectual community composed of researchers from around the world. Research is focused on four themes: (i) high-energy and gravitational physics, (ii) quantum metrology and laser applications, (iii) physics of life and health, and (iv) physics of photosynthesis and energy. The department is involved in teaching in the programs Physics and Astronomy (joint degree with the University of Amsterdam), Science Business and Innovation, Medical Natural Sciences (all three BSc and MSc), and the BSc program in Mechanical Engineering (together with the University of Twente). Furthermore, the department has a strong track record in the valorization of its research, including translational research to the clinic (often together with the Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc (on campus), and location AMC), collaborations with industry (e.g. ARCNL), and a thriving startup scene.

Faculty of Science

Working at the Faculty of Science means collaborating with students, lecturers and researchers who are focused on their field, yet have a broad view of the world.

From forest fires to big data, from obesity to malnutrition, from helium to the universe and from genetics to medicine: our education and research cover the full breadth of science, from molecules to mankind. Our academic education and research are highly experimental, technical and interdisciplinary in nature. That is why we collaborate extensively with leading scientific institutes and industry.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility.