We are offering an exciting research task for a PhD thesis in the above-mentioned subject areas in the medical physics department in radiotherapy physics. As part of this work, a dynamic anthropomorphic abdomen phantom is to be developed that has the ability to simulate patient-equivalent properties for upright patient postures, including 4D CT and MRI imaging with which breathing movements can be displayed. Radiation planning is to be created for a target volume and dosimetric evaluation is to be carried out using the measurement techniques integrated in the model. 

Tasks: 

• Design of an abdomen phantom using CAD software Inventor and design software Geomagic Freeform. 

• Implementation of the concept in a real model. 

• Testing of reproducible breath-induced movement sequences that the phantom is supposed to depict using CT and MRI imaging 

• Planning, measuring and analyzing the dose distribution on the phantom according to the treatment plan. 

• Documentation of the development steps that enables certification of the final product for commercialization. 

What we offer: 

• The medical technology working group has 10 years of experience in the development of anthropomorphic phantoms and has extensive technology for manufacturing, such as industrial 3D printers with different printing processes and direct access to the precision mechanics workshop of the DKFZ. 

• Support from experienced supervisors and a large team working in this research area 

• An innovative environment that combines practical applications in medical physics with the latest technology. 

• All technologies required for this project to carry out the therapy chain, from imaging, radiation planning and dosimetry, are available in the immediate vicinity. 

Your profile:

• University degree in physics, medical physics, biomedical engineering, medical engineering or a related field 

• Good knowledge of English 

• Excellent problem-solving skills, academic writing skills and communication skills. 

• Ability to work both independently and in a team.  

• Effective collaborative attitude with inter- and intra-institutional partners 

Application process 

If you find this position interesting and would like to work in an exceptional, international, strongly innovative environment, please send your full application documents, including the filled application form, motivation letter, short CV, list of most important publications with explanation of your own contribution, and information of your earliest possible starting date. If you are applying for more than one UPLIFT PhD position, you may indicate your top 1-3 preferences in the application form by using the DC numbers associated with the projects. Please submit your application to [email protected] until January 15, 2025. 

We anticipate video conference interviews with candidates starting in the third week of February,
for start dates from March 2025. Applications submitted without any of the required documents will not be considered.  

Candidates can be of any nationality but must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date. Applicants should be within the first four years of their research careers and must not have been awarded a doctoral degree. Submitted applications will be evaluated in accordance with the European Code of Conduct for Recruitment.