Optical Engineer at European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)

About the team/job

The Prevedel group in Heidelberg is seeking an optical engineer with an applied physics and/or engineering background to work on advanced spectroscopic imaging techniques for applications in biology and medicine. In particular, the candidate will work on the development of new optical instrumentation with a particular emphasis on Brillouin light-scattering. Additionally, the successful candidate will team-up with biologists and medical scientists to apply the advances to current scientific questions. This project is part of an ERC Consolidator grant. The successful candidate is expected to take a strong lead on his/her project and start to develop independent ideas. Our multi-disciplinary lab provides an innovative, dynamic and constructive working environment for this purpose. More information about the Prevedel group can be found here: www.prevedel.embl.de 

Your role

  • Design of mechanical, optical as well as electronic and software components of novel, custom-built microscopes to collect 3D data from biological tissues.
  • Development of Brillouin light-scattering techniques as well as the integration of novel spectrometers into bespoke microscopes.
  • Demonstration of new biomechanical imaging technologies in close collaboration with other team members and biologists.
  • Maintain documentation and records to support future developments, research or commercial exploitation and dissemination.
  • Dissemination of research results in scientific publications and presentations at international conferences. 

You have

  • PhD (or equivalent qualification) in optical physics, engineering, or biophysics and possessing advanced computer skills
  • Significant experience in optical physics, engineering, or biophysics and advanced computer skills.
  • Experience in building complex optical setups, must be comfortable with complex technical equipment (including lasers) and preferably possess programming (Matlab, Python, LabView, or similar) and/or simulation skills (CAD, ZEMAX, or similar). You should be able to work independently, be very well organized, reliable and enjoy working in an international team within a highly collaborative atmosphere. Excellent communication and presentation skills, a high level of motivation and fluency in English are required. 

You might also have

A keen interest in biological applications of new optical technologies as well as experience in supervising students and laboratory organization would be an advantage. 

Why join us

EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation with a very collegial and family friendly working environment. The remuneration package comprises from a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension scheme, medical, educational and other social benefits, as well as financial support for relocation and installation, including your family and the availability of an excellent child care facility on campus. 

What else you need to know

We are Europe’s flagship research laboratory for the life sciences – an intergovernmental organisation performing scientific research in disciplines including molecular biology, physics, chemistry and computer science. We are an international, innovative and interdisciplinary laboratory with more than 1800 employees from many nations, operating across six sites, in Heidelberg (HQ), Barcelona, Hinxton near Cambridge, Hamburg, Grenoble and Rome. Our other missions are to offer vital services in training scientists, students and visitors at all levels; to develop new instruments and methods in the life sciences and actively engage in technology transfer activities, and to integrate European life science research. The working language of the institute is English. In your online application, you will be asked to include a cover letter, your CV, and the names and contact details of 3 referees. Further information about the position can be obtained from Robert Prevedel (robert.prevedel[at]embl.de), Group Leader, EMBL Heidelberg. The initial contract is for a period of 3 years with the possibility of a fixed-term extension depending on individual performance and extension of the funding. Please apply online.


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