Multiphoton Imaging -Throughput Crystallization Screening

Offer Description

Develop and validate proof-of-concept nonlinear and multiphoton imaging strategies for ultra-sensitive crystallization screening in pharmaceutical materials.

Explore the novel use of polarization-resolved third-harmonic generation (THG) as a universal, label‑free probe for detecting trace crystallinity beyond the limitations of SHG and conventional methods.

Advance complementary harmonic imaging (CHI) by combining polarization-resolved SHG and THG to access structural information inaccessible to bulk analytical techniques.

Investigate widefield THG imaging concepts for high-throughput crystallization screening, a regime that remains largely unexplored and offers clear academic novelty.

Contribute to high-impact scientific publications, with opportunities to engage in adjacent nonlinear-optical and crystallization projects within the broader MIP programme to expand the publication portfolio.

Interact scientifically with partners in pharmaceutical and photonics sector to align fundamental optical concepts with relevant solid-state questions.

• PhD in Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related field (completed or near completion).
• Strong experimental background in nonlinear and/or multiphoton optics, such as harmonic generation, multiphoton microscopy, or ultrafast laser–based techniques.
• Proven experience in building, modifying, and critically evaluating optical experiments.
• Solid understanding of optical imaging, polarization optics, and laser–matter interactions.
• Ability to work independently at a postdoctoral level, with a clear interest in developing and validating new physical concepts and measurement approaches.
• Good scientific communication skills in spoken and written English.

• Experience with THG, SHG, or related nonlinear contrast mechanisms.
• Background or strong interest in physical chemistry, soft matter, or solid-state materials, particularly where structure–property relationships play a role.
• Interest in or prior exposure to crystallization phenomena or solid-state characterization (pharmaceutical background not required).
• Experience with quantitative analysis of imaging data (e.g. Python, MATLAB, or equivalent).
• Track record of first-author publications demonstrating methodological or conceptual contributions.

• Strong scientific curiosity and motivation to explore underdeveloped or unexplored measurement regimes.
• Critical mindset and willingness to question assumptions in both optical and physico-chemical contexts.
• Collaborative attitude and openness to interaction with PhD researchers, academic collaborators, and industrial partners.
• Interest in contributing to high-quality publications and, where relevant, to valorization-oriented discussions.

Contract:

Full‑time postdoctoral research position. The project foresees a duration of 2 years; the appointment will be made as an initial 1‑year contract, with extension for a second year after a positive evaluation.

Working environment:
The position is embedded in an internationally oriented research team at KU Leuven KULAK (Kortrijk), with close collaboration across KU Leuven and with academic and industrial partners.

Salary & benefits:

Competitive salary in accordance with KU Leuven postdoctoral salary scales and Belgian employment conditions.
Additional benefits: KU Leuven offers a comprehensive benefits package, including holiday allowance, hospital insurance, commuting support (public transport and bicycle allowance), and access to university sports and cultural facilities at reduced rates.

Applications will be evaluated as they are received and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is appointed. For more information please contact Prof. dr. Stijn Van Cleuvenbergen, mail: stijn.

See sections above for required and highly valued qualifications.