Researcher (M/F) in PhD in optical imaging for biology

CNRS; France; Sur place; EUR 35 000 - 45 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading research organization in France is seeking a First Stage Researcher for a PhD position focused on advanced optical imaging techniques. The role involves developing super-resolution microscopy compatible with label-free imaging. Ideal candidates will have strong knowledge in microscopy and optical imaging, along with programming skills in LabVIEW and Python/Matlab. Responsibilities include hardware and software setup, optical alignment, and imaging biological samples. The position is full-time with a temporary contract starting on March 2, 2026.

Responsabilités

• Perform hardware (opto-electronics) setup and software programming.
• Conduct optical alignment experiments.
• Image models and biological samples.

Connaissances

Microscopy knowledge

Optical imaging (theory and experiment)

Programming (LabVIEW, Python/Matlab)

Organisation

Autonomy

Interdisciplinary skills

Description du poste

Overview

Organisation/Company CNRS Department XLIM. Research Field Engineering Physics. Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1). Application Deadline 13 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (UTC). Country France. Type of Contract Temporary. Job Status Full-time. Hours Per Week 35. Offer Starting Date 2 Mar 2026. Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme. Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No.

Offer Description

The XLIM laboratory in University of Limoges is world widely recognized in particular in the field of optics and photonics. The team is working in the Photonic axis and is developing novel optical imaging techniques for biology. In particular, Pierre Bon is developing novel label imaging techniques for biological tissue studies. The candidate will work is this research team. The PhD candidate will present his work in international conferences around the world (1 to 3 international trips).

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Super-resolution imaging in optical microscopy now achieves nanometric resolution without requiring electron microscopy. However, it currently remains limited to the use of fluorescent molecules. Within our team, we are developing super-resolution approaches compatible with label-free imaging (Aguilar et al. 2021). We have extended this technique to label-free samples and can now observe thick biological samples at rates reaching the kHz range. This will enable the non-invasive study of intact biological tissue dynamics. The goal of this thesis is to (1) strengthen the setup to make it compatible with high-speed imaging over long durations, (2) optimize system control and develop signal processing tools, and (3) apply it to imaging challenges involving organoids and living biological tissues.

Responsibilities

• Hardware (opto-electronics) and software
• Optical alignment
• Model and biological sample imaging

Qualifications

• Microscopy knowledge
• Optical imaging (theory and experiment)
• Programming (LabVIEW, Python/Matlab)
• Organisation
• Autonomy
• Interdisciplinary skills