This PhD position is ideal for an aspiring scientist with a strong interest in how the human brain can be modelled at the microscopic scale using modern geometric modeling techniques from computer graphics and computer aided design. The motivation for the project is the constraint that no imaging validation techniques for MRI can resolve all anatomical length scales from the nano-structure of axon morphology to whole brain network organization formed by bundles of axons. However, shapes at all length scales contribute to the signal detected by an MR scanner. The ambitious goal of this project is to model very large substrates at extremely fine scale.
Responsibilities and qualifications
The main task is to work in the field of geometric modeling but in a very cross disciplinary setting: a good understanding of the structures of the brain as well as a strong familiarity with the simulation of diffusion processes that are used to generate synthetic MR signals must be obtained during the PhD. In addition to the strictly scientific work, software development is necessary to experimentally validate the developed methods, and good programming skills are essential.
Apart from that your competencies should include the following:
- Strong mathematical modeling skills are required.
- Some level of prior knowledge of the topics shape modeling, geometry processing, and computer aided design is a marked advantage.
- A basic understanding of biology is an advantage.
Your work will help build the technical methods necessary to better understand the human brain and in particular how illness manifests in MR images of the brain. The project is strongly rooted in the Visual Computing section of DTU Compute both via the overarching goal and via the methodologies that will be employed. The project is an alliance project with EPFL in Switzerland, and the work involves collaboration with our partners at EPFL.
You must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU’s rules for the PhD education.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
The starting date is 1 January 2023 but can be adjusted according to mutual agreement.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Andreas Bærentzen (janba@dtu.dk) or Tim Dyrby (tbdy@dtu.dk).
You can read more about DTU Compute at www.compute.dtu.dk/english.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 September 2022 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
You may apply prior to obtaining your master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Compute
DTU Compute is a unique and internationally recognized academic department with 385 employees and 11 research sections spanning the science disciplines mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering. We conduct research, teaching and innovation of high international standard – producing new knowledge and technology-based solutions to societal challenges. We have a long-term involvement in applied and interdisciplinary research, big data and data science, artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), smart and secure societies, smart manufacturing, and life science. At DTU Compute we believe in a diverse workplace with a flexible work-life balance.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 13,400 students and 5,800 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
Apply for this job
Apply no later than 15 September 2022
Apply for the job at DTU Compute by completing the following form.