Postdoc In Wearable optical sensing technology

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.

The Department of Applied Physics and Science Education is a research-driven department housing high-quality educational programs, all featuring strong connections between research and education. Our research is clustered in three focal areas: Fluids, Bio and Soft Matter (FBSM); Plasmas and Beams (PB); and Nano, Quantum and Photonics (NQP). Our shared ambition is to equip the next generation of ‘engineers of the future’ with the knowledge and the skills they will need to impact science, innovation, and society, from regional to global scales.

Short introduction

Spectroscopy plays a key role in tissue sensing by analyzing the interaction of light with biological tissues to gather information about their composition and structure. In particular near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy enables non-invasive, real-time assessment of biological parameters and tissue health.

Recently, wearable sensors equipped with spectroscopic capabilities have emerged as promising tools for continuous tissue monitoring outside clinical settings. These wearable spectroscopic devices often incorporate a small number of light sources and detectors, in the visible to 900 nm spectral region, allowing for real-time assessment of tissue conditions such as oxygen saturation.

Our group has developed integrated spectral sensors, based on an advanced nanophotonic platform, able to quantify and classify materials properties using near-infrared light. These low-cost spectral chips, already commercialized by our spin-off MantiSpectra, provide detailed spectral information in the spectral region 900-1700 nm and may open the way to the measurement of physiological parameters for which no wearable technology exists yet. In this project, as  first step, we will assess the potential of these chips for the measurement of hydration in tissue. In collaboration with industrial partners, we will select other promising targets and application areas, and pursue the integration of the chips into a portable demonstrator.

Job Description

The Semiconductor Nanophotonics lab at the Eindhoven University of Technology (The Netherlands) has an open postdoctoral position in the field of optical sensing for wearables. The successful candidate will be in charge of the planning and execution of measurement campaigns on phantoms and human tissue, and of designing, building, and testing portable spectral sensing systems for tissue analysis. The project will be carried out under the supervision of prof. dr. A. Fiore, Dep. Applied Physics and Science Education, in close collaboration with a team of young and enthusiastic researchers and with industrial partners. The postdoctoral appointment will initially be for a period of one year, with the possibility of extensions depending on  project funding. The Eindhoven region and its PhotonDelta ecosystem offer ample opportunities for developing an applied R&D career in photonics, within large companies or fast-growing spin-offs.

Job Requirements

• Motivated researcher, with a PhD in biomedical engineering, optical engineering or photonics.
• Experience in optical sensing techniques, preferably in the biomedical field.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in demonstratable outputs.
• A team player who enjoys coaching PhD and Master's students and working in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team.
• A proven ability to manage different aspects of a complex problem with independence.
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English, good communication and leadership skills.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for one year, with possibility of extension upon funding availability.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,060 max. € 5,331).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? 

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR services ([email protected]).

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.
• List of publications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.