Call for PhD students or Post-Docs in Wave Front Engineering, Super-resolution Imaging and Visual Based High-Content Screening

[Ricardo Henriques-2]

Call for PhD students or Post-Docs in Wave Front Engineering, Super-
resolution Imaging and Visual Based High-Content Screening:

The Gene expression and Biophysics Unit at CSIR-Synthetic Biology is  
looking for
a number of highly motivated persons with training in biological  
sciences,
engineering, computer sciences and experimental optics.
Our international newly created group is interested in developing novel
technologies in microscopy that range from artificial intelligence in  
image
acquisition, stochastic super-resolution quantitative methods and  
visual based
high content screening. We also are actively involved in training  
students in
imaging and microscopy through training workshops see:
http://microscopy.synbio.csir.co.za

Open projects and positions:

Adaptive Sampling Microscopy and Wave Front Engineering (1 or 2  
positions
preferably Post doc):
Recently microscopy as been able to become parallel with Moore's law,
technology developments have allowed us to achieve single molecule  
imaging in
living cells and a macro-to-nano overview of how biology works.  
Although these
amazing features can be achieved, most decisions based on hardware  
control are
still carried out by humans. This project aims to create data driven  
computer
assisted or artificial intelligence based microscope hardware control  
with the goal
of creating an imaging system with optimal performance able to adapt  
to sample
characteristics and through it minimize sample damage.
The candidate will be in charge of:
−Developing novel light microscopy set-ups able to spatially adapt  
the excitation
illumination, sampling and sample environment
−Implement and develop new data driven microscope control and analysis
methods


Dynamic Resolution in High Content Screening (2 positions preferably  
post doc):
Through high content screening microscopy, it is possible to overview  
the
dynamic behavior of a large population of cells. This project aims to  
merge this
technique with super-resolution light microscopy (PALM and STORM) by  
creating
a dynamic decision scheme where the microscope creates a low  
magnification
survey of target events that will trigger the super-resolution imaging  
of regions of
interest. Especially in genome-wide approaches, such as siRNA screens.
The candidate will be in charge of:
−Developing image analysis, image quantification and hardware control  
methods
−Developing imaging assays amenable to genome-wide screening  
approaches,
and drug screening approaches.


What we expect from the candidate(s):
We expect a strong interest in learning new experimental techniques and
computational tools, and the ability to work in a highly collaborative  
environment.
The following characteristics will be taken into account:
−Hands-On experience in Optical Microscopy
−Scientific programming in the languages Python or Matlab
−Basic knowledge of C, C++
−Experience in biology (preferable but not required)
−A keen interest in our research themes
−A true commitment to learn, explore, innovate & develop new skills
−A strong wish to share and synergize your expertise with all members  
of the
group
We offer a position in a multi-disciplinary group and the possibility  
to work with
state of the art microscopy hardware and data analysis resources like  
the Blue
Gene cluster.

Research in our newly established and multi-national group spans the  
disciplines
of "super" resolution imaging and image analysis/signal processing,  
the study and
imaging of gene expression, the development of cell-based bioassays for
screening, and molecular genetics. Of particular interest are  
candidates with
extensive and advanced training in biology as well as training in  
electrical
engineering and automation/robotics.

   What you should expect from us:
-       Team work
-       Acquire a profound understanding of Cellular Imaging,  
Quantitative
Biology and High throughput biology
-       Exposure and training in scientific writing, manuscript review  
and editing,
and writing grant proposals
-       Training in how to interpret, organise, present you data in  
lab meetings,
seminars and international conferences. As well as extensive  
international
exposure.
-       Training to become independent
-       Lots of hard work and fun

Candidates should be communicative, thoughtful scientists who are highly
motivated, have good communication skills (both written and verbal),  
and have the
desire to work with a dynamic, multi-disciplinary and international  
group. Interested
candidates should contact Dr. Musa Mhlanga, [hidden email], for  
more
information. The positions will remain open until they are filled.