Aldona Mzyk

Heriot-Watt University is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity in Quantum Bio-Imaging, focusing on the development of advanced quantum sensing protocols to study cellular metabolism. The position is based in the Quantum Photonics Laboratory (QPL) under the supervision of Dr. Aldona Mzyk, Associate Professor in Quantum Bio-Imaging. This research is part of a prestigious £2 million UKRI-funded project, aiming to revolutionize biomedical diagnostics and cancer research by leveraging quantum technology. The project will develop NV-based quantum sensing techniques to investigate how living cells function, with a particular emphasis on engineering nanodiamond surfaces for targeted intracellular applications. Key research areas include: Engineering nanodiamond surface functionalization to target specific intracellular compartments Understanding the impact of surface chemistry on fluorescence and spin properties of NV defects Developing multimodal quantum-sensing approaches for live-cell metabolic imaging This interdisciplinary project brings together quantum physics, materials science, and cell biology, and is closely linked to the Q-BIOMED UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Research Hub. The research aims to address critical challenges in cancer treatment by enabling precise monitoring of immune cell metabolism and interactions with cancer cells, potentially leading to improved diagnostics and therapies. Applicants must be UK nationals due to funding requirements. Candidates should have a strong background in physics, photonics, quantum engineering, materials science, or related fields, and a keen interest in quantum sensing, nanomaterials, or cell biology. The successful candidate will join a vibrant, collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities and opportunities for international collaboration. To apply, send your CV, a short motivation letter, and the names of two referees to Dr. Aldona Mzyk at [email protected]. For more information, visit the project news page or contact Dr. Mzyk directly. Keywords: quantum bio-imaging, quantum sensing, nanodiamonds, cellular metabolism, biomedical applications, quantum photonics, materials science, cell biology, NV centers, surface functionalization.

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.