Research project description:
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive medical imaging techniques based on interferometry that provides three-dimensional imaging of the retina at a very high resolution. Related techniques, such as Doppler OCT or polarization-sensitive OCT (PS-OCT) provide additional imaging modalities. Clinically, these high-resolution images can be used for better diagnosis and monitoring of disease. In our group, headed by prof. dr. J.F. de Boer, we develop advanced OCT systems and novel analysis methods for both existing and experimental OCT devices to enhance the diagnostic capabilities of OCT.
In this project, we will develop and evaluate novel methods for the analysis of OCT data sets, from both existing (commercially available) and experimental (conventional and polarization-sensitive) devices. Our primary aim is the diagnosis and management of glaucoma and age-related macula degeneration (AMD), both leading causes of blindness. The work will include a broad range of image analysis tasks, including image processing, segmentation, feature extraction and classification.
This project is an initiative of the Rotterdam Ophthalmic Institute (R.O.I.). The R.O.I. is the research institute of the Rotterdam Eye Hospital (REH) which was founded in 1874. With 13.500 operating room visits, 140.000 out-patient visits and a staff of 350 employees the hospital is devoted to providing patients with high quality care. It is the only independent Eye Hospital in the Netherlands and research is the driving force for innovation of the REH. In the Imaging group at the R.O.I (see http://www.eyeresearch-rotterdam.nl), we have a vacancy for a PhD student. In collaboration with the Quantitative Imaging group (headed by prof. dr. ir. L.J. van Vliet; see http://www.ist.tudelft.nl/qi) of Delft University of Technology, algorithms for analysis of three-dimensional OCT data sets will be developed and evaluated.
Candidate:
For this position we are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with a masters or equivalent degree in physics, mathematics, computer science, electronics or a related field, with a strong interest in medical image analysis. Candidates should have good programming skills (Matlab / C++) and be able to communicate in English both verbally and in writing. Presenting (preliminary) results of the project on national and international medical and technical conferences and in journals is encouraged. The successful candidate is expected to write a PhD thesis based on these publications.
Conditions of employment:
The project lasts for four years. The successful applicant will be appointed at the R.O.I. for one year initially, which will be extended by another three years subject to a positive evaluation. Gross salary will be € 2110,- per month in the first year, gradually rising to € 2717,- per month in the final year.
Locations:
The research will be conducted both at the Rotterdam Ophthalmic Institute and at Delft University of Technology, which are situated within just 15 km. In Rotterdam, the candidate will work as part of the Imaging group under supervision of dr. ir. K.A. Vermeer and interact with technical and medical specialists from the institute and from the Rotterdam Eye Hospital. In Delft, the candidate will be part of the PhD program of the Quantitative Imaging group. Being based at these two locations provides access to medical and technical expertise and experience and guarantees a work environment that is both challenging and motivating. This combined research environment provides a unique opportunity to work with both medical and technical specialists on clinically relevant topics.
Application and additional information:
This position is available immediately and is open until filled. Applications, including a letter of motivation, a detailed CV with two or three references (including full address, phone number and email address), a list of grades, TOEFL and/or IETLS scores (if available) and a sample of a written report in English, should be sent to Koen Vermeer (k.vermeer@eyehospital.nl). For more information about this position, please contact Koen Vermeer by phone (+31-650503833) or by e-mail (k.vermeer@eyehospital.nl).