Postdoctoral position - mri microscopy and brain metallomics

Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences

Leipzig, Germany

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to develop novel methods for in-cell magnetometry of paramagnetic metals in the brain, within a multidisciplinary project combining MRI microscopy, diamond-based quantum sensing, and advanced histology. The goal is to establish a new generation of tools for quantitative brain metallomics, enabling early detection and mechanistic understanding of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The project offers access to a unique imaging environment spanning 3T, 7T, and 9.4T MRI systems, and close collaboration with experts in MRI physics, signal modeling, and neuropathology.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement MRI microscopy protocols on a 9.4T preclinical (Bruker) scanner
• Design quantitative MRI methods sensitive to paramagnetic metals (e.g., iron)
• Acquire, process, and analyze high-resolution MRI data
• Integrate MRI measurements with quantum sensing (NV magnetometry) and histological data
• Contribute to method development, validation, and scientific publications

Methods and tools

• MRI microscopy and ultra-high-field imaging
• Neuroimaging software (SPM, FreeSurfer, hMRI toolbox)
• Programming in Python and/or MATLAB
• Multimodal data integration
• Complementary elemental analysis (e.g., PIXE, XRF)

Requirements

• PhD in physics, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, or a related field
• Strong experience in MRI acquisition and neuroimaging methods
• Solid programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
• Experience with neuroimaging analysis tools
• Excellent written and spoken English

Desirable qualifications

• Experience with preclinical MRI systems (e.g., Bruker 9.4T)
• MRI sequence development experience
• Background in quantitative MRI or ultra-high-resolution imaging
• Interest in neurodegeneration or brain metal homeostasis