Nanoscale X-ray tissue imaging for understanding the pathophysiology of hepatitis E infection

The ERC Synergy project 'NanoX: Nanoscale X-ray tissue imaging for understanding the pathophysiology of hepatitis E infection' at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is recruiting for multiple positions: a Postdoc in engineering for cryogenic handling of microbiopsies in soft X-ray tomography (SXT), a PhD in engineering for the development of microbiopsies, and a PhD position focused on automated segmentation and analysis of SXT data. The project is based at the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) and brings together expertise in infectious disease, physics, engineering, and structural biology. The Postdoc will develop and optimize micromanipulators and automated systems for microbiopsy, integrate these systems into soft X-ray microscopes, and collaborate with industrial partners. The PhD positions involve designing and validating micro-scale biopsy tools, conducting experiments at international synchrotron facilities, developing protocols for sample handling, and advancing automated image segmentation and big data analysis workflows. All positions require strong analytical and experimental skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and proficiency in English. Funding is provided under the ERC Synergy grant, with competitive salaries (TV-L 13), flexible working models, and additional benefits. The application deadline is November 16, 2025. Interested candidates should apply online via the KIT job portal and may contact Prof. Dr. Venera Weinhardt for further information.