1

as soon as possible for 3 years

31 May 2026

yes

Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Laser Technology, Optoelectronics, Photonics

The ERC-Synergy project Zee-Zoom-Zap invites applications for a Doctoral position (m/f/d) on endoscopic optical tomography with extended tissue penetration

Who we are:

µBIG is a young and dynamic research group at the Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK). We develop innovative microsystems for manipulating light in unprecedented ways and build groundbreaking biomedical sensing and imaging tools based on them.

Zee-Zoom-Zap is an ERC-Synergy project on a new theranostic approach to pancreatic cancer. It combines early detection (zee), non-invasive biopsy (zoom), and local therapy (zap), all through optical means. A radical departure from conventional optical biopsy concepts, our project has a holistic approach founded on four closely interlinked research pillars: cancer-specific phototheranostic probes, monolithically 3D-printed micro-optical catheters, novel optical imaging and therapy methods with unprecedented range and sensitivity, and novel physics-enhanced deep learning AI models for imaging, detection, decision support, and treatment guidance. The long-term perspective for the Zee-Zoom-Zap is translation into the clinical setting as part of a combined population- and imaging-based screening workflow for early detection of pancreatic cancer and in situ treatment. 

Your tasks:

You will work alongside a small team within the Zee-Zoom-Zap consortium. You will be asked to

• Conduct scientific research and publish in the fields of optics, photonics, microsystem technology, and biomedical imaging, including the topics
  • Development of an endoscopic spatial-offset OCT catheter,
  • Micro-optical design, manufacturing and assembly,
  • Optical system integration, testing, and validation.
• Work closely with an interdisciplinary and international internal research team,
• Collaborate with our international project partners within and outside of the Zee-Zoom-Zap consortium,
• Contribute to the supervision of MSc and BSc students,
• Actively participate in project dissemination activities, including seminars, workshops, and outreach events.

Requirements:

• MSc degree in a relevant field,
• Experience in working with fiber-optics and lasers,
• Strong interest in clinical translation of imaging technologies,
• Enthusiasm for novel technical applications and technological developments,
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary, international team,
• Proven proficiency in written and spoken English (German is an asset).

What we offer:

• Three-years, 100 % contract with salary according to TV-L E13,
• A thrilling, international research project funded by one of the most prestigious grant programs in Europe,
• State-of-the-art research infrastructure and a vibrant ecosystem,
• A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research environment at the epicentre of the beautiful Black Forest region,
• Opportunities for team leading, further education, professional networking, and technology transfer,
• Collaborations with international partners with frequent research visits,
• Flexible working hours and support with work-life balance.

Application:

Your application package should include the following documents as separate pdf-files:

• Cover letter outlining what motivates you about the advertised position/research area and what previous experience qualifies you for the position (1-2 pages),
• Curriculum Vitae including list of publications,
• Certified copies of your university degree(s),
• Copy of or a download link to your MSc thesis (if available),
• Contact details of two referees.

Please send your application by e-mail to caglar.ataman at imtek.uni-freiburg.de. For questions, you can use the same address or call +49 761 203 7569.

The salary will be determined in accordance with TV-L E13.