Postdoctoral Research Position - Hyperspectral Imaging and Data Analysis in He

Open Postdoctoral Research Position – Hyperspectral Imaging Application and Data Analysis in Heritage Science

We invite applications for the Open Postdoctoral Research Position – Hyperspectral Imaging Application and Data Analysis in Heritage Science at Technische Universität München (Technical University of Munich). The position is a full‑time, two‑year postdoctoral appointment (TV‑L E13, 100%), renewable for one year depending on funding availability. It is funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG).

• Develop and implement hyperspectral imaging (HSI) methodologies for in‑situ investigation of cultural heritage objects and architectural surfaces, covering VNIR and SWIR spectral ranges.
• Design and optimize HSI data‑processing workflows, including spectral calibration, preprocessing, classification, and mapping.
• Integrate HSI with complementary spectroscopic techniques (macro‑XRF, Raman, FTIR in reflection mode) to enable multimodal data fusion and automated material characterization.
• Apply and further develop machine‑learning and statistical models (e.g. PCA, SAM, clustering, neural networks) for spectral interpretation, segmentation, and material identification.
• Create and curate a dedicated HSI spectral library for cultural heritage materials, linking reference samples, mock‑ups, and in‑situ data and defining standardized metadata and interoperability formats.
• Maintain and develop the insi
  
  TUMlab data repository in Media
  
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• Participate in and coordinate national and international in‑situ analytical campaigns, performing on‑site documentation and analysis in collaboration with partner institutions.
• Support students (Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD) and contribute to capacity‑building activities.
• Prepare scientific publications, technical reports, and standard operating procedures, and participate in dissemination and outreach activities.

• PhD degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Systems & Control, Statistics, Computational Physics, Computational Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Heritage Science, or any field related to the lab’s research topics.
• Proven experience with hyperspectral imaging or related spectroscopic imaging methods.
• Strong background in data processing, image/signal analysis, and machine learning.
• Familiarity with instrument control, calibration, and automation workflows.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (German is an advantage).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities and motivation to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Creative, open‑minded and proactive attitude with a high degree of autonomy.
• High interest in cultural heritage applications.

• Dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment bridging heritage science, materials science, and computational imaging.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art HSI and spectroscopic instrumentation (HySpex VNIR/SWIR systems, macro‑XRF, Raman, FTIR, etc.).
• Active participation in international in‑situ research campaigns on cultural heritage sites.
• Collaboration with leading research institutions and museums (Doerner Institut, Deutsches Museum, etc.).
• Flexible working hours, supportive research environment, and strong mentoring culture.
• Salary according to TV‑L E13, 100%, including full social benefits.
• Career development opportunities and support for publications and conference participation.

Applications should be sent in one PDF file including:

• Cover letter describing your motivation and research interests
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Publication list, indicating three selected main papers and briefly describing your contribution
• Two letters of recommendation
• Supporting documentation (certificates, transcripts, etc.)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which will include a maximum 10‑minute presentation of their own research work.

Send applications by 31 January 2026 to Dr. Clarimma Sessa, Head of the insi

TUMlab – Analytical Infrastructure for Non‑Destructive In‑Situ Studies of Cultural Heritage, Chair of Conservation‑Restoration, Art Technology and Conservation Science, Technical University of Munich, Oettingenstraße 15, 80538 München, Email:

Applications from qualified women are strongly encouraged. Disabled applicants with equal suitability and qualification will be given particular consideration.

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