: PhD for the research project entitled “3-dimensional tomographic reconstruction..."

PhD
for the research project entitled
“3-dimensional tomographic reconstruction of local morphology and properties
of polymer systems with nanometre resolution by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM)”

Project description

Acquisition and interpretation already of 2D images requires fundamental knowledge and distinct experience, and even today, 70 years after commercial introduction of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in 1938, you still find in scientific publications doubtful TEM data and misleading interpretation of results. For 3D volume reconstruction the situation is even more difficult, because requirements for image acquisition are on a higher level, and for the reconstruction step itself complex algorithms are needed. As a consequence, in the scientific literature, again, several examples of misinterpretation can be found.
Since two years, the TEM unit at TU/e is fully operational. During this time period we have built up hands-on as well as theoretical insights related to TEM tomography, and have identified the following challenge:

Evaluation and Improvement of the Reliability of Reconstructed Volume Data Sets

It is our intention to systematically investigate the influence of several acquisition and reconstruction parameters, and on procedures on the final 3D data set. Important aspects to be tackled are analysis at the location of interfaces, in particular in z-direction of low contrast nanostructures, effects of reconstruction procedures on shapes and aspect ratios of nanostructures, percolation of 3D networks of nanoparticles, and surface effects in ultra-thin film specimens.
In summary, to create reliable volume data sets, the above-mentioned factors will be critical evaluated by combining experimental and theoretical approaches, and fundamental insights will be established on relations between acquisition conditions used, quality of “raw” data sets, reconstruction procedures, and finally, the quantification of the reconstructed volume data obtained.

Requirements

We are looking for an enthusiastic academic qualified experimental and/or theoretical physicist with a clear interest in setting up routes for the preparation of polymer model systems, in imaging and analysing these systems by TEM, and in developing and applying of image analysis procedures (model construction, software design) to gain qualitative and quantitative 3D volume information. The candidate should be well experienced in data analysis; some skill on handling of polymer materials and TEM operation is welcome. Moreover, it is anticipated that the candidate is able to work most of the time independently. For our group excellent communicative skills and the ability to work in a team with chemists and physicists are prerequisites.

Job info and salary

The contract period is 4 years with critical evaluation after the first year. The salary is according to the "Collective Employment Agreement Dutch Universities". A salary as usual for a PhD student in the Netherlands is offered, starting at € 1956,-- gross per month. Moreover 8% bonus share (for vacation) is provided.

For application or more detailed information please contact:

Dr. Joachim Loos
Eindhoven University of Technology
Laboratory of Materials and Interface Chemistry
Postbus 513
NL-5600 MB EINDHOVEN
Phone: +31 40 2473034;  Fax: +31 40 243 6999
E-mail:  j.loos@tue.nl
Visit the DPI home page: http://www.polymers.nl/

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