Missions

The Nanobio team develops innovative fluorescence microscopy techniques designed to push the limits of imaging, both in acquisition speed and imaging depth, for applications ranging from biological systems to nanomaterials. This research is inherently interdisciplinary, combining expertise in optics, electronics, image and data analysis, chemistry, and biology.

In this position, the successful candidate will work on the development of a novel three-dimensional single-molecule localization microscopy technique achieving an isotropic precision of 4 nm. The project builds on the integration of structured illumination to encode the axial position of single molecules into the phase of a modulated signal, using the ModLoc approach developed by the group (Nature Photonics, 2021).

A key aspect of the project will be the implementation of an original detection strategy based on oblique plane re-imaging, inspired by Oblique Plane Microscopy (OPM). The position is funded through a European research project and is particularly well suited for candidates with a strong background in physics or optics who are eager to work in a highly interdisciplinary environment and to broaden their expertise toward related fields.

Activities

The recruited researcher will contribute to the development of a novel optical microscopy modality for single-molecule localization. The main responsibilities will include:
-designing and developing the optical instrumentation,
-adapting and extending existing image and data processing tools to the new modality,
-validating the system performance using calibration samples and reference biological structures,
-preparing progress reports and contributing to scientific publications,
-presenting the work at national and international conferences.

Skills

Strong technical skills in physics are required, and prior experience in optics, in particular fluorescence microscopy, is highly desirable. The successful candidate should also have experience with data analysis tools (Python and/or MATLAB), and ideally be familiar with the challenges associated with imaging biological samples. Knowledge of photophysics will be considered an asset.
The recruited researcher is expected to communicate regularly on their work, and to demonstrate a strong interest in teamwork and interdisciplinary research.

Work Context

This work will take place at ISMO (a joint CNRS / Université Paris-Saclay research unit) as part of a european project, within the interdisciplinary NanoBio team in Sandrine Lévêque-Fort group.
The laboratory is equipped with an on-site cell culture facility and several single-molecule localization microscopes.
The contract duration can be extended.

Constraints and risks

laser beam
culture cell