PhD scholarship in X-Ray Microscopy for Life Sciences - DTU Physics

Join our interdisciplinary team developing state-of-the-art 3D X-ray microscopy for life science applications. ‘Seeing is believing’, therefore at the DTU 3D imaging center we explore the frontiers of micro- and nano-scale 3D X-ray imaging. Our next challenge is to visualize nanoparticles carrying nutrition in plants in vivo. By this contributing to the development of a new generation of plant fertilization strategies for our sustainable future. 

We are looking for an outstanding and motivated candidate to take up the challenge of designing, developing and applying advanced X-ray imaging methods by combining experimental and computational approaches in physics. You will be working with laboratory X-ray microscopes at DTU and at synchrotron beamlines, in close collaboration with experts in nanoparticle design at DTU Energy and plant science at Copenhagen University, the main partner in the larger Novonordisk financed center that you will be part of. You will become an expert in X-ray microscopy with special emphasis on life science applications.

Responsibilities
As a PhD, your mission is to first familiarize with the current grant challenges in plant science and then based on profound understanding of the physical concepts of X-ray imaging, conceive and realize a new approach to reveal specific aspects of plant physiology with focus on nanoparticle uptake. You will mostly work with X-ray tomographic microscopy, however your task as a physicist is to develop a broader perspective and be open to different possible avenues leading to the solution of the application challenge. 

Qualifications
You are excited about experimental science and advanced data analysis, and we expect that you enjoy being part of a team, that you have sense of humor, is a good problem solver and that you can work efficiently and independently. 

For this position we favor candidates with a degree in physics or applied mathematics. You should: 

• Have a solid grasp of microscopy, electromagnetism/optics and linear algebra 
• Be skilled in data analysis with proven experience with programming, e.g. Python 
• Be skilled in experimental work 

Previous experience with microscopy is an advantage but not required. 

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Approval and Enrolment  
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Rajmund Mokso, DTU Physics. 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information  
Should you have any queries regarding the positions, please contact Rajmund Mokso ([email protected]). 

You can read more about the department https://physics.dtu.dk  and the 3D imaging center https://3dim.dtu.dk .

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 28 March 2025 (23:59 Danish time) . Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.