100% Techinician Position for Center for Intelligent Optics

The Center for Intelligent Optics (CIO) develops advanced optical technologies, including imaging, spectroscopy, and laser ablation methods. Our goal is to bridge these cutting-edge laser technologies with clinical practice, developing solutions that enable accurate and real-time diagnosis and therapies.

Project background
Polyethylene wear is a major factor affecting the long-term performance of hip implants, as it can lead to particle-induced inflammation and implant loosening. Understanding the mechanisms and patterns of wear at the microscopic and molecular levels is therefore critical for improving implant longevity and patient outcomes. In this project, high-resolution spectroscopic imaging will be employed to map chemical changes and structural degradation in the PE material, while correlating these findings with biological responses observed in surrounding tissues. The principal aim of this interdisciplinary project, entitled "Comprehensive analysis of determinants of polyethylene wear and the related tissue response to improve outcomes in total hip arthroplasty" is to characterize the in vitro and in vivo wear behavior of polyethylene (PE) sockets from retrieved THA components. This will be achieved using advanced optical imaging techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. To achieve this goal, two positions have been designed. The first position (technician, this position) will focus on performing Raman/FTIR on retrieved samples. The PhD position will focus on developing a deep-learning algorithm for analyzing the acquired experimental data.

Your position

Your profile

• University degree in physics, optical engineering, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, or closely related fields
• Strong understanding of optical processes
• Experience with Raman and/or FTIR imaging
• Ability to work in a highly international team
• High motivation to work with optics and their biomedical applications
• Applicants are expected to have excellent language skills in English (German is a plus).

We offer you

• Opportunity to work on a highly innovative project within a highly interdisciplinary environment
• Fixed-contract (up to 4 years, with a possibility of extension based on further funding)
• The salary is very competitive by international standards and will be according to the guidelines of the University of Basel. Five weeks of holidays per year, 42 working hours per week.