Brillouin scattering microscopy for cellular biomechanics

Overview

We have recently received funding to start a biophotonics research program at the Otago University Physics department. A fully funded PhD position is available to join this project.

This project develops new methods in Brillouin microscopy and applies them to proof-of-concept experiments in cell biomechanics. Brillouin microscopy is an emerging technology that utilizes light-sound scattering to characterize 3D material stiffness with microscopic resolution without requiring physical access. This allows mechanical characterisation in otherwise inaccessible regions including the interior of cells or within the lens of eyes. However, light-sound scattering is a weak process and there are severe limitations on the methods that can achieve sufficient sensitivity. We will develop a new method based on beam shaping that can overcome many of the limitations.

We are looking for a highly motivated student to develop the Brillouin microscopy technology and translate it into biomechanics research. The ideal candidate will have obtained a MSc degree, or some prior undergraduate research experience.

Prior background in laser optics or programming would be beneficial. Specifically, this project involves some or all of the following:

• Setting up optical systems
• Programming hardware control software to automate operation
• Develop signal processing to extract useful parameters from the noisy data
• Validate system performance
• Collaborate with tissue engineers to test the system in imaging bioprinted samples

This is an interdisciplinary research project and the successful applicants should be prepared to work across disciplines with people from different backgrounds.

The project is led primarily by Dr Michael Taylor (biophotonics), and includes collaborations with Professor Tim Woodfield (tissue engineering, University of Otago Christchurch campus) and Professor Warwick Bowen (optical physics, University of Queensland). Dr Taylor will be heavily involved in the day-to-day experiments.

The successful applicant will take a hands-on role in both the technology development and then translating the technique into biomechanical experiments. The candidates will benefit from wider national collaborations with researchers from the Dodd Walls Centre (DWC) of Research Excellence which consists of several groups from various Universities in New Zealand.

The stipend is NZD 35,000 per annum plus fees.

To apply

As part of your application package, kindly include:

• CV (including information for 2–3 referees)
• Cover Letter (this may include: a description of why you want to undertake a PhD; how your previous experiences have prepared you for the research project that you are applying for; what your passions are within or outside of academia)

For any questions, please contact
Email m.taylor@otago.ac.nz

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago