Main mission: Design, develop, and transfer Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) protocols on the MRI scanners of the BNIF platform, in collaboration with LMGC and L2C. Develop data processing methods to characterize the biomechanical properties of animal and plant biological tissues.
Activities:
# Develop and validate MRI sequences dedicated to MRE on the 9.4 T scanner and adapt them to 3 T systems (horizontal preclinical and vertical plant imaging).
# Integrate and operate mechanical actuation devices required for synchronized MRI acquisitions.
# Design and characterize reference phantoms for calibration and validation of experimental protocols.
# Develop methods for processing and analyzing displacement fields and mechanical properties (elasticity, viscosity).
# Conduct experiments on animal models (tumors, rodent brain) and plant samples (sorghum, fruits) in collaboration with partners.
# Disseminate results through publications and scientific presentations and contribute to collaborative projects at the physics/biology/agronomy interface.
# Interact with industrial partners (MEDISO, RS2D) for sequence optimization and integration of methodological developments.
# Contribute to the creation of a sustainable software library for data processing, accessible to the scientific community
Specificities / Constraints:
The researcher will work in a highly interdisciplinary and experimental environment, combining physics, mechanics, imaging, and data processing. Activities will be mainly carried out at the BNIF platform, Building 50 of the Triolet campus, and will require strong autonomy, flexible organization, and a collaborative mindset.
PhD or equivalent
Looking for a highly motivated young researcher with a background in physics, biomedical imaging, mechanics, or signal processing. Previous experience in MRI (sequence development, instrumentation), biomechanical modeling, or advanced data reconstruction would be a strong asset. The candidate should be proficient in scientific programming tools (Matlab, ImageJ, or equivalent) and have solid skills in image processing and quantitative analysis. Beyond technical expertise, the position requires scientific rigor, creativity, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment. The candidate should demonstrate a strong interest in experimental research and collaboration, particularly with the LMGC, L2C, and BNIF teams. Proficiency in scientific English, both written and spoken, is essential for disseminating results and interacting with international partners. This position provides a unique opportunity to contribute to an ambitious project in an innovative research environment at the crossroads of physics and life sciences.
The net monthly salary is between €2,200 and €2,380.
The position is hosted by the Laboratoire de Mécanique et Génie Civil (LMGC, CNRS/University of Montpellier) and is part of the DETERM project, in close collaboration with the Laboratoire Charles Coulomb (L2C) and the BioNanoImaging Foundry (BNIF, Building 50, Triolet campus). The BNIF is a cutting-edge technological environment dedicated to multimodal imaging, equipped with high-field MRI scanners (9.4 T, 3 T horizontal preclinical, 3 T vertical for plant imaging). The recruited researcher will benefit from a stimulating scientific environment at the crossroads of physics, mechanics, and life sciences, in an interdisciplinary context involving researchers, engineers, and clinicians. This position offers strong opportunities for national and international collaborations, both academic and industrial.
