PhD position: X-ray analytical and imaging methods development for biological systems in Dübendorf

Empa’s Center for X-ray Analytics develops X-ray methodologies for understanding materials structure in life- and material sciences. The Center is offering a PhD position in the development of X-ray analytical tools by combining 3D X-ray imaging methods with X-ray diffraction and scattering. Methodology development is foreseen related to micro/nano-CT, phase contrast imaging together with XRD. Your tasks will involve lab based instrumentation advancements for soft, biomedical samples, devising and performing X-ray analytical experiments and corresponding software for data analysis.  3D real and reciprocal space methods will be linked in order to obtain high resolution and contrast together with crystallographic information. Detailed understanding will be fostered for biological systems.

This interdisciplinary PhD project combines physics, material science, engineering and crystallography and will be carried out in collaboration with different laboratories of Empa's Department 'Materials meet Life' and Swiss University hospitals. Synergies between the institutions will be beneficial for the project.

Desired profile:

• Completed Master`s degree in physics, materials science or similar
• Previous experience in X-ray analytical methods such as X-ray CT, XRD
• Additional skills and experience in the biomedical domain is appreciated
• Highly motivated, communicative and interest in interdisciplinary research
• Language skills: English, German (advantageous)

Project duration of 3 years is planned in order to carry out the above research tasks in form of a PhD thesis. The project is supported by Empa and will be performed in collaboration with Swiss University Hospitals. The candidate will perform his research at Empa in Dübendorf. Desired starting date is as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement.