PhD position on Machine learning augmented clinical level imaging of cells related to pathological diseases in St. Gallen

Empa’s group of biosensing and functional surfaces is developing an unconventional imaging platform for reliable and rapid fingerprinting of pathological diseases by monitoring the shape, size and morphological changes occurring in cells and platelets. To this end, we will combine high resolution scanning probe microscopy with high throughput live cell imaging methodologies. The data obtained from these state-of-the-art techniques developed at Empa will be subjected to machine learning for supporting clinicians in making better prognosis of pathological diseases.

This interdisciplinary PhD project combines cell biology, liquid-based imaging techniques, biophysics and machine learning. This project is supported by Empa and will be conducted in collaboration with clinicians at the St Gallen Cantonal Hospital, Switzerland.

For this project we seek a highly motivated candidate with a background in cell or molecular biology, biophysics and keen interest for bio-imaging.

Your profile

• Completed Master`s degree in molecular/structural biology or biophysics.
• An outstanding academic record.
• Previous experience in cell and protein imaging is an advantage.
• Excellent communication and English language skills.

The successful candidate will participate in scientific collaborations within Empa and work in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

The candidate will conduct research mainly at Empa Dubendorf labs and partly at the Empa St. Gallen labs. The desired starting data is 1st of September 2019 or upon mutual agreement. A project duration of 3 years is planned in order to carry out the above research tasks in form of a PhD thesis.