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PHD opening

Scientific Image Analyst (Optical Microscopy)

Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa · Spain

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About this position

About the service

The Advanced Optical Microscopy Service (SMOA) at the Severo Ochoa Centre for Molecular Biology (CBM) offers advice, technical support and training in advanced optical microscopy and image analysis, providing comprehensive support throughout the entire experimental process, from sample design and preparation to image acquisition, visualisation and analysis, as well as the presentation and publication of results.

With 14 systems and expertise in over 20 techniques, the SMOA currently serves more than 350 users from 120 research groups, drawn from both the CBM and other public and private institutions.

The SMOA forms part of the EuroBioImaging Madrid Advanced Microscopy Center (MAdMiC) node, and is a member of both the Community of Madrid’s RedLab network of laboratories (RLAB-004) and the Spanish Network for Advanced Optical Microscopy (REMOA) .

About the role

The successful candidate will work closely with researchers from different disciplines, providing expert support in the processing, quantitative analysis and interpretation of images obtained using advanced optical microscopy techniques.

This is a highly dynamic and multidisciplinary role, with a strong focus on scientific collaboration, the development of new workflows and user training.

Main responsibilities

  • Advise researchers on the design of image analysis strategies tailored to their projects.
  • Develop and optimise analysis pipelines for wide-field, confocal, super-resolution (STED) and lightsheet microscopy.
  • Implement segmentation, quantification and automation solutions using image analysis and artificial intelligence tools.
  • Develop macros and scripts to automate processing and analysis tasks.
  • Provide support in the use of commercial and open-source software (FIJI/ImageJ, CellProfiler, QuPath, napari, Arivis, Imaris, amongst others).
  • Train users through courses, workshops and one-to-one sessions.
  • Collaborate on methodological projects and the development of new image analysis applications.

Required profile

  • University degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or related disciplines.
  • Demonstrable experience in scientific image analysis.
  • General knowledge of optical microscopy and the main image acquisition techniques.
  • Proficiency in tools such as FIJI/ImageJ, CellProfiler, QuPath, Napari, Python or MATLAB.
  • Ability to interpret biological results and collaborate with researchers from different fields.
  • Good command of scientific English, both spoken and written.
  • Excellent communication skills and a user-centred approach.

The following will be particularly valued

  • Experience in analysis using machine learning or artificial intelligence applied to biomedical images.
  • Experience with Cellpose, StarDist, ilastik, DeepImageJ, Omnipose, SAM or other similar tools.
  • Knowledge of 3D analysis, time series, in vivo cell tracking and multi-channel analysis.
  • Experience in scientific data management and FAIR principles.
  • Previous experience working on scientific-technical platforms or research support services.

We are looking for someone who…

Enjoys solving scientific problems, is keen to develop new image analysis methodologies and wants to help researchers from different fields get the most out of their microscopy experiments. We particularly value initiative, the ability to learn and a desire to work in an environment where every project presents a new scientific and technological challenge.

We offer

  • A role within a leading scientific service equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
  • Ongoing training in advanced microscopy, image analysis and artificial intelligence.
  • A multidisciplinary and highly collaborative environment.
  • The opportunity to participate in methodological developments, publications and international scientific infrastructure networks (EuroBioImaging, RedLab).
  • Access to advanced technologies in microscopy, scientific computing and data analysis.
  • Opportunities for professional development within a constantly expanding department.

How to apply

Please email smoa@cbm.csic.es , attaching:

  • Your up-to-date CV
  • A covering letter
  • Two contacts for potential references

Requirements

Research Field

Biological sciences

Education Level

Bachelor Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

Required profile

  • University degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or related disciplines.
  • Demonstrable experience in scientific image analysis.
  • General knowledge of optical microscopy and the main image acquisition techniques.
  • Proficiency in tools such as FIJI/ImageJ, CellProfiler, QuPath, Napari, Python or MATLAB.
  • Ability to interpret biological results and collaborate with researchers from different fields.
  • Good command of scientific English, both spoken and written.
  • Excellent communication skills and a user-centred approach.

Specific Requirements

The following will be particularly valued

  • Experience in analysis using machine learning or artificial intelligence applied to biomedical images.
  • Experience with Cellpose, StarDist, ilastik, DeepImageJ, Omnipose, SAM or other similar tools.
  • Knowledge of 3D analysis, time series, in vivo cell tracking and multi-channel analysis.
  • Experience in scientific data management and FAIR principles.
  • Previous experience working on scientific-technical platforms or research support services.

We are looking for someone who…

  • Enjoys solving scientific problems, is keen to develop new image analysis methodologies and wants to help researchers from different fields get the most out of their microscopy experiments.
  • We particularly value initiative, the ability to learn and a desire to work in an environment where every project presents a new scientific and technological challenge.

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Languages

SPANISH

Level

Good

How to apply

  1. Read the full advert on the source site — it carries the authoritative terms.
  2. Email the contact below with your CV and a short, specific message. See Emailing Professors.
  3. Prepare your SOP, CV, transcripts and referees before the deadline.
  4. Apply through the university's own portal. Never pay a fee to a third party.

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