Postdoc in Three-Photon Microscopy and Adaptive Optics, EMBL Heidelberg (Prevedel Group)

Job Description

EMBL Heidelberg is hiring a postdoc in three-photon microscopy and adaptive optics in Robert Prevedel’s group. You will build new microscopes that image deep inside living tissue. The contract is for two years at first. Apply by 23:59 CET on 9 November 2026.

At a glance

• Position: Postdoc, full time, initially 2 years (JR4654)
• Where: Prevedel Group, EMBL Heidelberg, Germany
• Stipend: 4,237.89 a month after tax, as printed; the ad shows no currency
• Funding: An EU Horizon Europe WIDERA Twinning grant
• Apply: 9 November 2026, 23:59 CET

What the three-photon microscopy postdoc involves

• Design the mechanics, optics, electronics and software of new three-photon microscopes for deep 3D imaging
• Develop wavefront shaping and adaptive optics with SLMs, deformable mirrors and DMDs to correct tissue aberrations
• Build adaptive-optics control and computational reconstruction into the microscope
• Benchmark the system, including on organoid models
• Show the methods in live mouse and fish samples with biologists and partner sites
• Host and co-supervise visiting researchers, and lead the consortium’s imaging demonstrations

Why this role matters

Three-photon imaging reaches deeper into the brain and other tissue than two-photon methods. Adaptive optics keeps the image sharp at depth. The skills carry over to astronomy optics, laser engineering and imaging companies.

What EMBL is looking for

• A PhD or equivalent in physics, engineering or a similar field, with a solid optics or photonics background
• Comfort with complex equipment such as pulsed lasers, SLMs, deformable mirrors and/or DMDs
• Ability to work independently, with good organisation
• Excellent communication and fluent English

Nice to have

• Nonlinear or multiphoton microscopy, adaptive optics or wavefront shaping
• Building and aligning complex optical setups
• Hardware control in Matlab, Python or LabView, and simulation in CAD or ZEMAX
• Work with live 3D samples such as mouse, fish or organoids
• Multi-site collaboration and student supervision

Pay and location

The ad prints a monthly stipend of 4.237,89 after tax, with no currency symbol. It adds generous benefits and allowances based on your circumstances. The stipend excludes 12.99% personal pension and insurance. EMBL offers a relocation package to applicants living overseas, and the ad says selected candidates get visa exemptions.

How to apply

Apply through the official EMBL page. The closing date is 9 November 2026, 23:59 CET. Submit a cover letter and CV through EMBL’s online system. EMBL aims to reply within two weeks of the closing date.

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