Postdoc: Three-photon microscopy and advanced wavefront shaping / adaptive optics

The Prevedel group in Heidelberg is seeking a postdoc with an applied physics and/or engineering background to work on advanced three-photon microscopy for deep-tissue imaging in complex 3D biological tissues. In particular, the candidate will work on the development of new optical instrumentation with a particular emphasis on advanced wavefront shaping and adaptive optics for aberration correction, to push the achievable imaging depth and resolution of three-photon microscopes in thick, scattering tissue. This project is part of the recently funded EU Horizon Europe WIDERA Twinning grant.

• Design of mechanical, optical, electronic and software components of novel, custom-built three-photon microscopes for deep-tissue 3D imaging.
• Development of advanced wavefront shaping and adaptive optics strategies (e.g. using spatial light modulators, deformable mirrors and/or digital micromirror devices) for aberration correction in thick, scattering tissue, including live animals (mouse/fish).
• Integration of adaptive optics control and computational reconstruction methods into the microscope's operation workflow, and quantitative benchmarking of imaging performance in a range of samples including organoid models.
• Demonstration of new imaging technologies in live biological samples in close collaboration with other team members, biologists, and the project's international partners, including cross-site experiments and researcher exchanges.
• Dissemination of research results in scientific publications and presentations at international conferences.

• The ideal candidate should have a PhD (or equivalent qualification) in physics, engineering, or an equivalent field of study, with a solid background in optics/photonics, preferably with prior experience in nonlinear/multiphoton microscopy and/or adaptive optics and wavefront shaping.
• The candidate should ideally have experience building and aligning complex optical setups, must be comfortable with complex technical equipment (including pulsed lasers, spatial light modulators, deformable mirrors and/or digital micromirror devices) and preferably possess advanced computer skills for programming hardware control (Matlab, Python, LabView, or similar) and/or simulation skills (CAD, ZEMAX, or similar).
• Prior experience working with live 3D biological samples (e.g. mouse, fish or organoid models) would be an advantage, as would enthusiasm for working within an international, multi-site collaborative project involving regular exchange with partner institutions abroad.
• A keen interest in biological applications of new optical technologies as well as experience in supervising students and laboratory organization would be an advantage.
• The successful candidate should be able to work independently, be very well organized, reliable and enjoy working in an international team within a highly collaborative atmosphere.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, a high level of motivation and fluency in English are required.