PhD Candidate in Multimodal Optical Imaging Systems (f/m/x)

At Helmholtz Munich, we develop groundbreaking solutions for a healthier society in a rapidly changing world. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. Through strong partnerships, we accelerate the transfer of new ideas from the lab to real-life applications, improving lives.

The Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging (IBMI) at Helmholtz Munich and the Chair of Biological Imaging (CBI) at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) are an integrated, multi-disciplinary research unit, which provide bioengineering solutions to urgent societal needs. IBMI scientists develop next-generation imaging and sensing methods to measure previously inaccessible properties of living systems, hence, catalyzing breakthroughs in biology, medicine, and the environment.

Comprising 13 inter-disciplinary laboratories and scientists from more than 25 countries, IBMI offers state-of-the-art infrastructure for innovative research and an ideal environment to accelerate your career.

We are now seeking a highly qualified and motivated PhD student (f/m/x) to drive the development of novel optical technologies addressing significant biological and medical challenges.

We are looking forward to receiving your comprehensive online application, including your letter of motivation, CV, and academic transcripts of records, preferably in English.

Your tasks

The successful candidate will play a key role in an ambitious research program focused on developing next‑generation multimodal imaging systems spanning the mesoscopic to microscopic scale. As part of a major research project and supported by extensive national and international collaborations, this effort seeks to shift the landscape of biological and medical imaging through pioneering, miniaturized, multimodal technologies. The candidate will have the opportunity to shape a rapidly evolving field by contributing to both technological innovation and high‑impact biological and medical applications.

Key Responsibilities & Goals:

• Develop a next‑generation system for quantitative, real-time multimodal mesoscopic and microscopic imaging.
• Contribute to real-time software development for system control, data acquisition, multimodal image reconstruction, and quantitative analysis workflows.
• Collaborate within a European research consortium and engage with international and national partners across multiple institutions.
• Drive innovation in the design and development of miniaturized imaging technologies.

Your profile

• M.Sc. in natural sciences, electrical engineering, physics, optics, medical technology, biomedical computing, or a related discipline.
• Experience with optics, fiber optics, sensors, miniaturized systems design and development.
• Programming skills in C++ and MATLAB; additional relevant programming skills are an advantage.
• Excellent track record of academic achievements.
• Strong motivation, scientific curiosity, and commitment to scientific excellence.
• Strong teamwork skills and enthusiasm to work in a multi-disciplinary, collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated writing skills.
• Excellent command of the English language.

This position provides the opportunity for you to build specialist knowledge whilst developing key professional experience, both of which will help you to make strides in your scientific career.

Remuneration and social security benefits are based on the German Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees at Federal Level (EG 13 50% TV EntgO Bund). In addition, there is also the possibility of receiving an allowance if the applicable conditions are met. The position has an (initial) fixed term of three years but may be extended under certain circumstances.

Managing Director Mike Frieser:

„We believe that diversity is the key to groundbreaking research and innovative solutions. Our flexible working models and remote options create a supportive environment for balancing work and family life. For us, contributing to a healthier society in such an inspiring workplace is truly meaningful.“

Get to know us

Benefits

• Scientific Training: Helmholtz Munich Graduate School
• Career counseling: Career Center for PhD candidates
• Scientific Resources: State-of-the-art infrastruture and Core Facilities
• Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
• International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany

Interested in applying?

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Dimitrios Gkorpas, [email protected], who will be happy to help.

Our recruiting is decentralized - your application will be reviewed directly by the specialist department in which you could work in the future.

More information about our application process

Please send your application only via our online application tool and with the following documents:

• CV
• Letter of motivation
• Academic transcripts of records
• Letter of motivation
• Academic transcripts of records

If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree by the time you start work at the latest. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.

We are committed to promoting a culture of diversity and welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion or age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference.

Learn more about diversity at Helmholtz Munich

Our commitment