PostDoc position Biomedical Optics

Your function

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 levelsmay 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 Post Doc who will work on the optical instrumentation, image analysis algorithms and technical validation on model eyes. The Post Doc will develop a retro-mode illumination and detection module and integrate it into an existing custom-built mcSLO system. The Post Doc 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.

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.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

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.

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. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• 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…