Postdoctoral position in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on optical systems for acoustofluidics

Are you an expert in modeling or building systems in ultrasound or acousto-fluidics? Are you driven by a desire to explore fundamental physics, and are you interested in its future applications in medical technology? Are you excited about achieving scientific breakthroughs together with talented and friendly colleagues? Are you interested in a research career in academia?

Description of the workplace

Our group is well-renowned in the field of acoustofluidics through our fundamental experimental studies of ultrasound resonances to generate acoustically induced flow phenomena as well as to exert forces on microscopic objects in microchannels. We are also developing applications in medical technology. Examples of such applications include sorting circulating tumor cells from the blood of cancer patients or capturing extracellular vesicles from blood samples. You can find more information on our research website. Our agenda is ambitious, with publications in PRL, Nature Communications, and Analytical Chemistry, and with competitive funding from the ERC and the Swedish Research Council.

In connection with the projects described below, we have identified a need to recruit one to two postdoctoral researchers with theoretical and practical expertise in acoustofluidics. You will not be working alone. Within our research environment, which is exceptionally strong in acoustic microfluidic systems, we work closely together, are generous with ideas, and share our knowledge.

Subject- and project description

We are have recently discovered that thermal gradients combined with an acoustic field can generate rapid thermoacoustic streaming in liquids inside microcavities, read more here. We are now exploring this new physics with the long-term goal of translating the technology into practical applications. The project aims to develop new methods to better understand and exploit laser-induced thermoacoustic streaming. To achieve this, we will study fundamental interactions and transport phenomena related to thermal fields and ultrasound resonances at the microscale. In another project, we are measuring mechanical properties of blood cells and cancer cells with the long-term goal of isolating so-called circulating tumor cells from cancer patients, with relevance for cancer biology.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, maximum 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

Your research work will primarily consist of experimental studies of basic physical phenomena related to thermo-acoustic streaming or cell mechanophenotyping in acoustofluidic systems.

The specific work duties include:

• Fundamental research in experimental fluid mechanics and biophysics
• Modeling and building thermo-acoustic systems.
• Integration of acoustofluidics with optical systems to generate temperature gradients, as well as imaging solutions such as FLIM and Schlieren imaging, in close collaboration with experts in lasers and optics.
• Co-supervision of undergraduate students and doctoral students.
• Administration related to the work duties.

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Extensive practical experience with designing or building acoustofluidic setups
• Extensive experience in experimental or theoretical research
• Self-directed with good organizational skills
• Good ability to communicate and collaborate with others
• Good analytical abilities

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the folllowing forms the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

• Experience in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, or acoustics.
• Experience with optical systems.
• Experience in cellular biomechanics.
• Experience in physical chemistry.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years with start as soon as possible, by agreement. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”). We will start the recruitement process after vacations in the beginning of August.

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

We look forward to receiving your application!