The Division of Image Processing (Dutch abbreviation: LKEB) is a division of the Department of Radiology of the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) with a scientific staff of approximately 40 fte. The LUMC is the formalized cooperation between the Faculty of Medicine of the Leiden University and the Leiden University Hospital. The goal of the research performed at the LKEB is to develop automated image analysis techniques that facilitate the interpretation and quantification of biomedical images. Also, image processing methods to support surgery and interventions form an important research goal; application areas are broad, ranging van oncological surgery to cardiovascular interventions. At the LKEB, fundamental image processing research is performed in a highly clinical setting, as we have found it critically important to ascertain clinical input from different disciplines (e.g. cardiology, radiology, pulmonology, orthopedics, surgery) in the technical imaging research.
At  the moment, a job opportunity exist at the LKEB, as summarized below (see, for general job opportunities at the LUMC: “vacancy pages” ):

Position A

PhD student, Fluorescence guided Oncological surgery
(F/M)
(36 hours p/w)

The PhD student is part of a multi-disciplinary research team working on a novel way of cancer surgery using multi-spectral fluorescence imaging. Using fluorescent tumor-targeting probes, tumor tissue can be made visible during surgery with a novel multi-spectral imaging system. Potentially, this may provide the surgeon with a tool for more effective and complete removal of tumor tissue. Research goal for the PhD student is the development of algorithms for photon attenuation correction for light sources in biological tissues using optical images at multiple wavelengths. Research is carried out in close collaboration with molecular biologists and oncological surgeons as part of the MUSIS project funded by the Center for Translational Molecular Medicine (www.ctmm.nl). A strong background in physics is required, and experience with tissue optics and photon attenuation correction is preferred.

Position A:

•    Investigate tissue models of photon propagation based on response ratios in multiple wavelength ranges
•    Determine optimal acquisition wavelengths to enable attenuation correction for different fluorophores
•    Develop fast algorithms for attenuation correction based on this optimal wavelength configuration
•    Support the integration of these algorithms in a multi-spectral camera system for oncological surgery
•    Present the work in scientific papers and on international conferences
•    Complete a PhD thesis

We are looking for creative and enthusiastic scientists with an

•    M.Sc in Physics
•    Affinity and experience with biomedical research and medical image processing and visualization
•    Ability to solve problems on an abstract level, but also able to apply these solutions in (clinical) practice, in a pragmatic manner
•    Clear interest in the application and utilization of (bio)medical, technological research
•    Enthusiastic team-player
•    Attentive to detail and committed
•    Excellent communication and writing skills
•    Knowledge of Linux, Windows and matlab
•    Knowledge of C++ will be an advantage

We offer:

•    An intellectual challenge on a scientifically hot topic with a high potential impact on cancer surgery; this within an enthusiastic and successful research team;
•    An excellent software and hardware infrastructure based on the latest computer and camera technology;
•    The opportunity to collaborate closely with surgeons, radiologists, molecular biologists and medical industry
•    The assignment of the investigator will be on a project basis and initially for a period of 12 months followed by the remaining period of 3 years under the condition of a positive judgment over the first year.

For more information, please contact:
Dr B.Lelieveldt[AT]lumc.nl
Phone: +31 71 526 1130
or
Dr J.Dijkstra[AT]lumc.nl
Phone: +31 71 526 2270
Please email your application letter to:
Prof. dr ir J.H.C. Reiber, PhD (J.H.C.Reiber[AT]lumc.nl)
Phone:+31 71 526 3935
Fax: +31 71 526 6801