PhD position in Medical Imaging and Image Reconstruction for Near-Infrared Optical Tomography of the Head of Newborns

The Biomedical Optics Research Laboratory (BORL) is part of the Department of Neonatology at the University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich. It is one of the leading laboratories in the field of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and near-infrared optical tomography (NIROT). We were among the first groups to adopt NIRS in the field of neonatology. BORL develops technology, algorithms, software to drive the instrumentation and data analysis methods. BORL also applies these medical devices in preclinical and clinical studies. The motivation is to develop these methods and instrumentation for the benefit of the patients, in particular to prevent lifelong disabilities in preterm infants.

Your responsibilities

As a PhD Student at BORL, you will join the team that will build an imager based on near-infrared optical tomography (NIROT) capable of non-invasively imaging brain oxygenation in preterm and term neonates. These highly sensitive patients often have problems adjusting their oxygenation adequately, which may lead to brain lesions and long-term disability. The hope is that an instrument to image brain oxygenation will enable treatment to prevent these serious complications. In addition, this instrument will also be applicable to many other tissues and patients.
Your work will focus on developing advanced image reconstruction algorithms for the NIROT system to enable precise, quantitative imaging of brain oxygenation in a clinical intensive care setting. This includes implementing forward models (e.g., diffusion equation), inverse solvers (e.g., different optimization algorithms, machine learning approaches), validation on phantoms and clinical data from human volunteers and patients, and integration with data from collaboration projects.
Detailed documentation and manuals need to be prepared in English.
This project is based on a grant from SNF, and it is a collaboration with the EPFL.

Your profile

We are looking for a PhD candidate with a master's degree in applied mathematics, physics, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computational science, or a related field, with a strong interest in inverse problems solving and image reconstruction for diffuse optical tomography. Key skills include proficiency in numerical methods (finite element/discrete ordinate methods, iterative solvers, regularization techniques), and implementation in Python/MATLAB (including machine learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow for data-driven reconstruction). Experiences with time-resolved optical data, mathematical modelling of light propagation (diffusion equation, Monte Carlo simulations), and validation on phantoms/clinical datasets are advantageous.
Language requirements: fluent English (German is very welcome).
Special requirements: We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic person.

Information on your application

We offer a challenging project, which encompasses a broad range of expertise: Hardware development, programming, and clinical application. The project is particularly attractive because it includes the whole process from development to biomedical application. The lab in Zurich offers state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary teams, and a vibrant environment for basic research and medical application. The collaboration with experts from the EPFL (engineering, chip design) will provide an exciting interdisciplinary environment.

The employment will start in June 2026 or by agreement.

Wir bieten

• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing), Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
• Learning and Development: Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich, Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
• Food: Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias, Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
• Healthcare: Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ, Free seasonal flu vaccinations, Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
• Discounts: Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space, Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions, Special conditions on hotel reservations
• Conditions of Employment: Policies of the UZH, Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
• International Services: Support for people from outside Switzerland
• Campuses: Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren, Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg