Lead Development Scientist/Engineer – Optoacoustic Imaging Systems (f/m/d)

Overview

Join us in shaping the future of biomedical imaging. We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated scientist or engineer (f/m/d). The Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging (IBMI) at Helmholtz Munich and the Chair of Biological Imaging (CBI) at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) form one of Europe's leading centers for biomedical imaging and sensing innovation. Our mission is to create transformative technologies that reveal previously inaccessible biological information and accelerate breakthroughs in medicine, biology, and environmental health. Our interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers from more than 25 countries develops technologies that bridge fundamental research, clinical translation, and real‑world healthcare impact. With state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure, strong industrial partnerships, and a proven track record of innovation, IBMI offers an exceptional environment for ambitious researchers seeking to work at the forefront of bioengineering.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an outstanding and highly motivated scientist or engineer (f/m/d) to play a leading role in the development and clinical translation of a next‑generation optoacoustic imaging platform. This project aims to establish entirely new ways of assessing human wellness and disease, focusing on novel functional and metabolic tissue readings obtained non‑invasively. This advance will open opportunities for earlier diagnosis, monitoring, and personalized management of cardio‑metabolic disorders. As part of a multidisciplinary team spanning mathematics, computation and AI, engineering, physics, medicine, and regulatory science, you will contribute to bridging technological innovation with the pathway that brings breakthrough imaging technologies into human studies and clinical practice.

Your role

• Drive the development of advanced optoacoustic instrumentation and sensing technologies.
• Understand in depth the regulatory and quality‑management activities supporting first‑in‑human studies.
• Contribute to device validation, performance characterization, and clinical translation.
• Collaborate with leading clinical, industrial, and academic partners across Europe.
• Design and implement novel optical, electronic, and system‑level solutions.
• Publish in leading journals, present at international conferences, and contribute to intellectual property generation.
• Help redefine how health and disease are assessed in future medicine.

Required Qualifications

• Education in Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Medical Technology, Computer Science or related disciplines with a strong academic record.
• An aptitude for navigating the medical device regulatory process.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Optical systems and photonics
  • Lasers and fiber optics
  • Sensors and instrumentation
  • Biomedical imaging technologies
  • Electronics and embedded systems
  • Medical device development
  • Regulatory pathways for medical devices
  • Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or related environments.
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
  • Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.
  • Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork in an international research environment.

Particularly advantageous

• Experience with medical device development or translational research.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks, quality management systems, or clinical studies.
• Experience in optoacoustics, ultrasound, optical imaging, spectroscopy, or related technologies.
• Interest in entrepreneurship, innovation transfer, or commercialization.
• Fluency in German and English.

Our offer

• Participation in a highly ambitious, internationally visible research program.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art imaging, photonics, electronics, and biomedical research infrastructure.
• Close interaction with world‑leading experts in imaging, bioengineering, and clinical medicine.
• Opportunities to contribute to patents, technology transfer, and future commercialization activities.
• Extensive international networking and collaboration opportunities.
• Outstanding career‑development and training programs through Helmholtz Munich and TUM.
• A dynamic, supportive, and highly collaborative working environment.

Life in Munich

Located at the foothills of the Alps, Munich consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities. Home to leading universities, research institutes, technology companies, and biomedical startups, Munich offers a unique ecosystem for scientific excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Contract and Conditions

The position is initially offered for 2 years, with the possibility of extension and long‑term career perspectives based on performance and mutual interests. Compensation is according to TV‑L E13 according to the public wage agreement of the Free State of Bavaria (higher levels may be possible for exceptional candidates depending on qualifications and experience). Helmholtz Munich and TUM are committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion. Applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds are warmly encouraged. The position is suitable for filling with severely disabled persons. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference granted otherwise essentially equal suitability, ability and professional performance.