Microscopist and Imaging Specialist (PhD level) Champalimaud Foundation in Portugal

The Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon, Portugal is recruiting a Microscopist and Imaging Specialist (PhD level) for the Advanced BioImaging and BioOptics Experimental (ABBE) Platform within Champalimaud Research. This is a full-time fellowship-style position in a highly active scientific imaging environment supporting fundamental, translational, and technology-development projects across neuroscience, cancer research, and other life science areas.

ABBE provides open-access, expert-supported bioimaging infrastructure with advanced instrumentation, hands-on training, image analysis support, quality control, and technology development. The platform operates multiple advanced microscopy systems, supports a large user community, and participates in major bioimaging networks including the Portuguese Platform of BioImaging (PPBI), Euro-BioImaging, and Global BioImaging.

The successful candidate will work as part of the ABBE team to support users from experimental planning through image acquisition and first-line analysis. The role emphasizes confocal and super-resolution microscopy, deep-tissue imaging, light-sheet microscopy, widefield imaging, automated slide scanning, and quantitative image analysis. The specialist will provide scientific consultation, train users, support sample-specific and modality-specific imaging challenges, and contribute to robust, reproducible microscopy workflows.

Core responsibilities include advising on experimental design, controls, acquisition parameters, and sample-preparation requirements; training researchers in both basic and advanced light microscopy; supporting living and fixed samples; and helping with visualization, 3D reconstruction, quantification, and analysis using tools such as IMARIS CF, Arivis, Aivia, Fiji/ImageJ, and related open-source software. The role also includes routine quality control, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, documentation, and coordination with manufacturers or service engineers when needed.

ABBE is especially interested in candidates who are service-oriented, collaborative, and comfortable explaining complex technical concepts to users from diverse backgrounds. Scientific contributions beyond the core service mission are encouraged when compatible with platform priorities, including technology-development projects, collaborative research, and academia-industry activities.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a PhD in Biology, Physics, Engineering, Biophysics, or a related discipline, or be in the final stage of the PhD with thesis submission confirmed no later than 31 December 2026. Strong hands-on experience in advanced light microscopy, practical confocal experience plus another advanced modality, quantitative image analysis skills, scripting/programming ability, and excellent English are required. Experience in tissue clearing, multiphoton/non-linear microscopy, live-cell imaging, machine learning for image analysis, optical development, and user training are desirable.

Funding and appointment: the position is offered as a fellowship with a remuneration of EUR 2,200 net per month. The initial duration is 48 months, with the possibility of renewal subject to institutional approval and the applicable employment framework.

Application window: applications open on 1 September 2026 and close on 30 September 2026 at 17:00 Lisbon time. Candidates must submit the standard application form and a single PDF with the CV, motivation letter, and contact details for two professional references. Degrees obtained abroad may require formal recognition in Portugal.

Location: Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal.