Postdoctoral position in optical microscopy and instrumentation (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will have the primary mission of designing, developing, and integrating an innovative open-source optical microscope within the MicroscopIA project. They will play a central role in building the instrument, from defining the optical architecture to full system integration, working in close collaboration with software, artificial intelligence, and biology teams. The position aims to contribute to the development of an adaptive microscopy platform enabling 3D+t imaging with real-time feedback.

Activity

Main activities will include the design and assembly of an adaptive optical microscope based on a light-sheet architecture, the integration of multi-objective and multi-scale imaging configurations, and the implementation of motorized and piezo-controlled opto-mechanical systems for alignment and calibration.
The postdoctoral researcher will interface hardware with real-time acquisition and control software, contribute to automated calibration procedures and hardware–AI feedback loops, and participate in open-source hardware documentation and scientific dissemination.

Your Profil

Skills

The position requires a PhD in optics, physics, instrumentation, bioengineering, robotics, or a related field. Strong experience in optical microscopy and experimental instrumentation is expected, along with a solid theoretical understanding of physical optics and light–matter interaction principles.
Expertise in opto-mechanical design, motorized systems, and complex experimental setups, as well as a strong interest in interdisciplinary research, is essential. Experience with light-sheet microscopy, adaptive optics, wavefront shaping, open-hardware platforms, or instrument control software will be considered a strong asset.

Your Work Environment

The position is part of the MicroscopIA project (Inria PIQ program) and is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of physics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and biology. The postdoctoral researcher will be based in Montpellier, France, within a dynamic scientific ecosystem in bio-imaging and computational research.
The position benefits from the French public research system, including full social security coverage, paid holidays, and a healthy work–life balance, and is strongly committed to open science, reproducibility, and open-source development.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

From 3071€ gross per month, depending on experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions