Post-doctoral Researcher in Optical Systems Engineering

The Nanoscience Cooperative Research Center, CIC nanoGUNE, located in Donostia / San Sebastian, Basque Country (Spain), is currently looking for a

Post-doctoral Researcher

to work on

Optical Systems Engineering

NanoGUNE is a research center devoted to conducting world-class nanoscience research for a competitive growth of the Basque Country. NanoGUNE is a member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA) and is recognized by the Spanish Research Agency as a María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence.

We are looking for a researcher with experience in optical systems engineering, optical design, and preferably experience with Raman spectroscopy. The candidate will work as entrepreneurial researcher, employed by CIC nanoGUNE but working for the spin-off company Prospect Biotech.

Tasks:

• Lead optical systems engineering: design, integrate and develop Raman optical systems (lasers, spectrographs, optical fibers, probes), including component selection, integration and optimization.
• Architect automated workflows for biological sample processing, define automation requirements, and validate integrated platforms.
• Configure spectroscopic measurement systems, design data collection pipelines and develop preprocessing workflows.
• Build and validate optical prototypes for monitoring, assess reproducibility and conduct feasibility studies.
• Optimize platform performance through systematic experiments to maximize signal intensity and reproducibility.
• Generate SOPs, validation reports, technical specifications and scientific manuscripts for regulatory and stakeholder review.

The successful candidate will have:

• a PhD in Physics, Optical/Photonic Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering or related discipline.
• 1–2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience with demonstrated leadership in technical projects.
• Hands-on experience building and troubleshooting optical/analytical systems (microscopy, spectroscopy, laser systems).
• Proven experience in laboratory automation, instrumentation control or data acquisition systems.
• Strong experimental design, data analysis and signal/noise optimization skills.
• Programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB or similar for data processing and instrument control.
• Technical leadership ability, problem-solving mindset, attention to detail.
• Strong English communication (minimum B1).
• Entrepreneurial spirit and curiosity about biotechnology and clinical translation.

The candidate will take a leadership role in defining and building core technical divisions of Prospect Biotech, an innovative biotech spin-off from CIC nanoGUNE. The position offers direct involvement in frontier nanobiophotonics research with real clinical and industrial applications, integration into Prof. Seifert’s Nanoengineering research group with access to state-of-the-art equipment, and collaboration with hospitals, manufacturers and clinical partners. There is a clear growth trajectory into permanent leadership roles within Prospect Biotech, with opportunities for scientific publication and conference participation.

Donostia/San Sebastian offers exceptional quality of life and access to European research networks.

We promote teamwork in a diverse and inclusive environment and welcome all kinds of applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion, or sexual orientation.

Eligible candidates will be encouraged to apply for the BikaIntek fellowship, a competitive grant from the Basque Government (Eusko Jaurlaritza).

The position is expected to start in 01/06/2026 and for a total length of up to 12 months (01/06/2026 - 31/05/2027) with potential for permanent incorporation into Prospect Biotech.

Candidates should apply by completing the form below and attaching the following documents:

• A complete CV 
• A cover letter and at least two reference letters grouped in a single PDF file

The deadline for applications is 15/04/2026. 

NOTES:

(i) All applicants will receive an answer after the end of the selection process; but please note that due to the large number of submissions that are expected, we cannot provide individual feedback.

(ii) Additional information about nanoGUNE's commitment towards HR excellence in Research and Gender Equality are available on our website.

(iii) We encourage you to subscribe to our HR mailing list to receive information related to nanoGUNE's open positions and open calls for different training and talent attraction programs.