Postdoctoral Research Associates in Quantum Bio-Imaging and Microfluidics at Heriot-Watt University Heriot-Watt University in United Kingdom

Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, is recruiting two Postdoctoral Research Associates to join the Quantum Bio-Imaging team, led by Associate Professor Aldona Mzyk. These positions are part of a £2 million UKRI-funded project focused on developing next-generation quantum sensing tools for studying cellular metabolism and immune–tissue interactions, with the goal of advancing clinical diagnostics and cancer treatment.

The research is based in the Quantum Photonics Laboratory (QPL) within the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS), a leading UK center for quantum technologies. The project will combine quantum sensing, optical spectroscopy, and microfluidics to create integrated platforms capable of tracking metabolic dynamics in live cells and studying metabolic plasticity in complex biological microenvironments. The work aims to address critical challenges in cancer immunotherapy by enabling high-resolution studies of immune cell interactions with cancer tissue, potentially leading to improved patient-tailored therapies and earlier disease diagnosis.

Position 1 focuses on developing a multimodal quantum sensing microscope for high-resolution studies of metabolic dynamics in live cells. Position 2 centers on designing and implementing microfluidic platforms that interface with quantum-sensing microscopes to study metabolic plasticity. Both roles offer opportunities to collaborate with physicists, engineers, and life scientists, and to engage with the UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Research Hub (Q-BIOMED).

Applicants should have a PhD in physics, engineering, biomedical sciences, or a related field, with experience in quantum sensing, bio-imaging, or microfluidics. The team values interdisciplinary skills and a commitment to inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups in physics and engineering. The positions are fully funded, offering competitive salaries and excellent career development opportunities.

To apply, candidates should use the Heriot-Watt University job portal links provided for each position and may contact Aldona Mzyk via LinkedIn for informal inquiries. The research environment in Edinburgh offers a unique blend of academic excellence, culture, and natural beauty, supporting both professional and personal growth.