Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Imaging

Postdoctoral researcher in computational imaging, via applications in astronomy and medicine.

Contract: Full-time (35 hours per week), Fixed Term Contract for 12 Months

Detailed Description

The Biomedical and Astronomical Signal Processing (BASP) laboratory at Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh (HWU), headed by Professor Yves Wiaux, is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in computational imaging.

The BASP laboratory is developing cutting-edge research on all aspects of computational imaging, from theory and algorithms, to applications in astronomy and medicine. Dr Wiaux is a Professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at HWU. 

The position is open in the context of a large research project aiming to develop a new generation of computational imaging algorithms intended to deliver simultaneously precision, robustness, efficiency, and scalability of the image formation process. Algorithms will in the first instance be designed for radio astronomy and validated at extreme scales, leveraging dedicated high-performance computing implementations. Technology transfer to magnetic resonance imaging in medicine is a secondary target.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The postholder will develop new image formation algorithms for radio astronomy. Technology transfer to magnetic resonance imaging in medicine is a secondary target. Upon outstanding performance, postholders can be granted opportunities for secondments in one of the collaborating institutions and/or to co-supervise a PhD student. A secondary affiliation to EPFL or UoE may be offered to candidates with the appropriate profile.

Appointment is initially for 1 year, and renewable for up to 3 years, depending on research progress. HWU offers attractive salaries, accounting for experience and excellence criteria. BASP offers a cutting-edge collaborative research environment. 

Education, Qualifications and Experience

‍We are looking for outstanding candidates with a PhD in physics, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline.‍

The candidates will have expertise in computational imaging, with: (i) an algorithmic focus, with particular interest in methods at the interface of deep learning and optimisation theory, and/or (ii) an application focus in radio astronomy or magnetic resonance imaging, including both simulation and real data processing expertise. Competence in specific algorithmic approaches such as plug-and-play methods and diffusion models, or specific applications such as Very Long Baseline Interferometry and black hole imaging in astronomy, or low-field magnetic resonance imaging in medicine, is of particular interest.

Essential Criteria

• PhD: Hold a PhD (or be about to)
• Area of expertise: computational imaging 
• Evidence of research ability: capability to be self-directed and think innovatively
• Publication record: strong publication record
• Work environment: experience of multi-cultural work environment; ability to work as part of a team
• Communication skills: ability to present work effectively (written/oral)
• Supervision: experience of PhD student supervision

How to Apply

Formal applications should consist of a single PDF including a motivation letter, CV, publication list, and names of 3 references, to be submitted as single document via the Heriot-Watt Job Portal. Any queries should be sent by email to Prof. Wiaux (y.wiaux@hw.ac.uk). Applications should be submitted prior to 20th October 2025. The screening of candidates will start in August 2025 and continue until the position is filled.

Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. Please see our website https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/equality-diversity.htm and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers https://disc.hw.ac.uk/ .

We welcome and will consider flexible working. Please see full details via the above ‘Apply’ button.

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