The research group of Francisco Balzarotti at the Research Institute for Molecular Pathology (IMP) offers a position for highly motivated Master's Student, who is interested in the fields of optics, super resolution microscopy and single molecule tracking.
Our Group
We develop novel optical methods and instrumentation for the observation of biological phenomena with the highest fidelity. We focus on schemes that require outstanding performance in terms of spatial and/or temporal resolution, such as super resolution fluorescence imaging and single-molecule tracking. By bringing together expertise in optics, labelling and photophysics, we develop solutions to transverse obstacles in biology and biophysics within a highly collaborative environment.
The Projects
The advent of Super Resolution Microscopy has unlocked the access to spatial resolutions beyond the diffraction limit of visible light (~250nm), becoming an invaluable tool for exploring the structure and function of biological processes. The recently introduced MINFLUX concept has pushed even further the possibilities of molecular localization in terms of spatio-temporal resolution. Driven by these concepts, the successful candidates will integrate to ongoing projects that involve
(i) development of optical instrumentation,
(ii) photophysics of fluorescent emitters,
(iii) statistical studies and simulations of super resolution technologies or
(iv) super resolution imaging and single molecule tracking experiments.
The Candidates
The candidates should be curious, creative and excited about learning new topics and skills! Despite the emphasis on technology development within our group, a candidate with experience/knowledge/interest in biology will make a great match. This is the driving force of our environment at the Vienna BioCenter, where there is extensive exposure to diverse topics in biology.
Successful candidates should hold a a BSc degree or equivalent in the fields of physics or engineering.
Additionally, the following aspects are desirable:
- Theoretical and/or hands-on experience in optics
- Programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB, LabView, FPGA and/or GPU
- Experience with electronics (circuitry, microcontrollers, high frequency/high voltage)
- Experience in statistics, stochastic processes and/or control theory
Our Environment
The Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP) in Vienna is a basic biomedical research institute largely sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. With over 200 scientists from 40 countries, the IMP is committed to scientific discovery of fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying complex biological phenomena. The IMP is located at the Vienna BioCenter, one of Europe’s most dynamic life science hubs with more than 3,000 employees from 80 countries in six research institutions, two universities and two dozen biotech companies.
Application
Interested candidates should send their application (motivation letter, CV, contact details for references) directly by email to francisco.balzarotti[at]imp.ac.at.
The Master's Student position is remunerated.