Research Assistant/associate in development of 4D image processing methods (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Associate/Research Assistant to develop computational foundations for a dynamic X-ray tomography programme in Cambridge, UK. The post focuses on reconstructing 3D evolution of materials using neural representations and physics-informed, data-driven approaches.

Fixed-term: 24 months. Applicants will work with new X-ray hardware and high-rate mechanical tests, with collaboration across disciplines.

Qualifications

• Strong background in image processing, inverse problems and machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Develop reconstruction and image-processing methods for under-sampled, dynamically evolving X-ray datasets.
• Explore NeRFs and neural representations for 4D imaging.
• Coordinate computational work with lab X-ray hardware and high-rate mechanical experiments.
• Couple computational imaging with deformation models and physical knowledge.

Skills

Image processing

Inverse problems

Machine learning

Tools

ABAQUS

Job description

The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, UK. Computed tomography (CT) has transformed fields by enabling non-destructive three-dimensional (3D) imaging. However, conventional CT is fundamentally limited by acquisition speed: high-quality 3D reconstruction typically requires thousands of X-ray radiographs acquired over a full specimen rotation, taking minutes to hours. This makes CT unsuitable for fast, transient phenomena such as additive manufacturing, impact, fracture and high-rate deformation. We are launching an ambitious research programme to overcome this limitation and establish new approaches for X-ray tomography of rapidly evolving processes. Combining advances in X-ray hardware, computational imaging, machine learning and mechanics, the project aims to reconstruct the three-dimensional evolution of materials during dynamic deformation, moving beyond static CT towards true four-dimensional imaging in space and time. We seek an outstanding Research Associate/Research Assistant to play a leading role in developing the computational foundations of this programme. The successful candidate will develop reconstruction and image-processing methods for highly under sampled, dynamically evolving X-ray datasets, including approaches based on neural radiance fields (NeRFs), neural representations and related state-of-the-art computational imaging techniques. A central challenge will be to combine X-ray measurements with physical knowledge of deformation processes. The project therefore offers significant scope to develop new physics-informed and data-driven approaches coupling computational imaging with models of material deformation, with considerable freedom to shape the computational research programme. The computational work will be closely integrated with new laboratory X-ray hardware and high-rate mechanical experiments. Experience or interest in continuum mechanics and computational solid mechanics would therefore be advantageous. Familiarity with finite-element methods, particularly ABAQUS, including coupling ABAQUS to external codes through its Python interface, would also be beneficial. The project is interdisciplinary and collaborative, involving researchers at the University of Cambridge and industrial partners. Applicants should have a strong background in image processing, inverse problems, machine learning.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance.

Applications must be submitted by midnight on the closing date.

For questions about the vacancy or application process, please contact Hilde Hambro, Group Administrator: [e-mail] ; [phone] Please quote reference NM50970 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

£33,002 to £46,049 per annum