The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether PSI employs 2100 people. The Center of Proton Therapy at PSI has been treating cancer patients with protons since 1984 and is a leading center in this innovative treatment modality worldwide.

For the Center for Proton Therapy we are looking for two

PhD Students

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in proton therapy

Your tasks

We are looking for two PhD students to work on two projects relating to the use of MRI in proton therapy:

• In the first project (“Cancer radiomics targeted by pencil beam scanning proton therapy for deformable tumours”) the PhD student will help to improve the quality of healthcare provided for cancer patients by adapting the treatment plan to the biological heterogeneity of tumor tissues of individual patients. For this, functional MR biomarkers describing the local radiositivity will be integrated with motion models to develop a decision support platform for model based (in-silico) randomised clinical trial and patient stratification.

 

• In the second project (“Towards Online MRI guided Scanned Proton Therapy”), the PhD student will help develop numerical 4D phantoms for simulating online MRI guided proton treatments. Based on these, comprehensive simulations of MRI-induced proton pencil beam distortions will be perfomed, which will be integrated into the 4D dose calculations for proton treatment planning. Finally, the clinical feasibility and efficacy of MRI and non-MRI image guided approaches will be quantified and compared for proton therapy.

Your profile

You should have a Master degree in physics, biomedical engineering or related disciplines. Medical physics / biomedical engineering knowledge in radiotherapy related projects is beneficial. Knowledge of medical imaging and image processing. Experiences in MRI imaging, Monte Carlo simulation and programming would be advantageous.

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.

For further information please contact Dr Sairos Safai, phone +41 56 310 54 58.

Please submit your application online (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD student (index no. 1723-00) by March 31st 2019.

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Srei-Pou An, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland.