Our group is continuously seeking motivated candidates to contribute to cutting-edge research in Magnetic Resonance (MR)—leveraging state-of-the-art imaging and spectroscopy techniques at ultra-high magnetic fields.

We operate one of the most advanced MR infrastructures available for research, utilizing ultra-high-field magnets up to 9.4 Tesla, paired with cryogenically cooled radiofrequency (RF) coils to maximize sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This setup enables us to push the boundaries of both structural and functional MRI, including advanced diffusion-weighted imaging, novel contrast mechanisms, and high-resolution MR spectroscopy.

Our research extends beyond conventional proton (^1H) MRI. We have a strong focus on non-proton (X-nucleus) MRI, and in particular, we are pioneering new methods in fluorine (^19F) MRI. ^19F MRI offers exceptional specificity due to the negligible endogenous background signal in biological tissues, making it a powerful tool for targeted imaging. However, it also presents technical challenges due to inherently low sensitivity.

To overcome these limitations, we are developing and optimizing novel acquisition protocols, hardware solutions, and post-processing methods to enhance ^19F SNR and enable broader applications in molecular imaging, drug tracking, and metabolic studies.

If you are passionate about translational biomedical research, we welcome your interest. Our projects range from method development to preclinical and translational applications and involve interdisciplinary collaboration.

Typical candidate profiles include:
– Backgrounds in biology, molecular medicine, biomedical sciences, physics, biomedical engineering, (bio)chemistry, biophysics, or related fields
– Interest or experience in MR methods, RF systems, image reconstruction, or quantitative imaging

• Preparation and handling of organoids during MRI experiments
• Supporting organoid maintenance in appropriate culture media during scanning
• Monitoring experimental conditions relevant for biological stability
• biological characterization in parallel to or post MRI measurements , e.g. cellular (FACS) or histological analysis (immunostaining / microscopy) and viability or metabolic assays
• Correlation of biological readouts with MR-derived parameters

• A tertiary level of education is required i.e. ideally Master but also Bachelor degree (in progress)
• Minimum of 6 months availability
• Prior laboratory experience
• Highly motivated with a proactive yet responsible working style
• Programming experience in MATLAB and/or Python are a plus

Hands-on experience with cutting-edge micro-MRI systems (including 9.4T ultra-high field MRI)
Training in magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy methods
Exposure to X-nucleus MRI, especially fluorine MRI
Work with cryogenically cooled RF coils and advanced imaging hardware

Lab & Technical Skills
Experimental work with 3D organoid models as alternatives to animal research
Access to wet labs for organoid preparation and processing for cellular or tissue analyses.
Opportunities for data analysis, image processing, and method development

Collaborative Research Environment
Involvement in a multidisciplinary team with physicists, engineers, and biologists
Interaction with industry partner Bruker and international collaborators

Academic Benefits
Supervision of Master’s thesis
Potential to co-author conference abstracts or publications Support for academic credits (ECTS) if applicable

Impact-Oriented Research
Contribution to 3Rs-compliant research (Reduction, Refinement, Replacement of animal use)
Work on translational methods that bridge technology and biomedical applications

Please send an email to sonia.waiczies@mdc-berlin.de