Postdoctoral researcher photonics for tissue characterisation / biomedical engineer in pathology

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Department: Molecular Imaging – Pathology – Radiotherapy – Oncology
Regime Full-time

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The Department of Molecular Imaging, Pathology, Radiotherapy and Oncology in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and the Department of Pathology have the following vacancy: postdoctoral researcher in the field of photonics for tissue characterisation / biomedical engineer in pathology

Position

  • You will conduct scientific research in photonics for tissue characterisation, with a particular focus on Raman spectroscopy and related optical technologies for pathology.
  • You will support scientific contribution to existing research projects and conduct scientific research within the “Pathology to improve diagnosis and treatment” (PATHiDT) team of University of Antwerp and the Department of Pathology at Antwerp University Hospital (UZA).
  • You will divide your work between three areas: development of optical instrumentation, measurement studies on clinical tissue (ex vivo and in vivo), and data analysis and AI.
  • You will develop the Raman spectroscopy research further, and assess and introduce additional photonics techniques for tissue characterisation.
  • You will link the photonics data to the department's digital pathology and molecular pathology work.
  • You will write grant applications to secure funding for the group, and publish scientific results.
  • You will contribute to the translation of photonics and AI innovations into diagnostic pathology workflows, in close collaboration with pathologists, clinicians and molecular biologists.

Profile

  • You hold a PhD in biomedical engineering, photonics or optical engineering, or a related field, obtained no more than five years ago. An engineering background is essential.
  • You have experience with building optical instruments.
  • You have experience with machine learning and programming.
  • You have excellent communication skills across disciplines: you can work effectively with engineers, pathologists, clinicians, molecular biologists, data scientists and academic and industrial partners.
  • You are motivated to take a leading role and to build a research group.
  • You are motivated to translate technological innovations into tools and workflows that support diagnostic practice and improve patient care.
  • You have a good knowledge of English, both oral and written.
  • Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
  • Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
  • You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

What we offer

  • We offer a two-year appointment, with the aim of a longer-term position.
  • We offer a unique setting: photonics technology development and application inside the Antwerp University Hospital Department of Pathology.
  • We offer unique access to patient material.
  • We offer an open-door policy towards new academic and industrial photonics developments, with the opportunity to work with the groups and companies behind them.
  • We offer the opportunity to take part in research-related activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
  • The planned start date is  the 1st of Januari 2027  or as soon as possible after that date.
  • You will do most of your work at the Antwerp University Hospital near Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
  • We offer flexible working hours.
  • You will have 40 days of annual leave and collective leave for 1 week when the university is closed, between Christmas and New Year.
  • Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

  • You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 30th of November 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments: 
    • a motivation letter
    • your academic CV
  • The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.
  • If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact prof. Senada Koljenović (Senada.Koljenovic@uantwerpen.be).

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.

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