Research Scientist in MRI & Instrumentation (Bordeaux)

Required Skills & Profile

Technical Skills

• Strong expertise in MRI sequence programming

• Experience with MRI data acquisition on standard scanners

• Advanced skills in raw data processing

• Integration of post-processing algorithms, including AI-based methods

• Practical aptitude for basic electrical or mechanical troubleshooting

Education & Experience

• PhD required (Physics, Physical Chemistry, Imaging, or related fields)

• Strong background in Magnetic Resonance is mandatory

• Interest in biological applications and biochemical methods is highly appreciated

Soft Skills

• High level of scientific autonomy

• Strong written and oral communication skills (French & English)

• Ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams

Application Materials

Please submit:

• Detailed CV

• Digital copy of PhD thesis manuscript

• List of publications

• At least one letter of recommendation

Location

Centre for Magnetic Resonance of Biological Systems (RMSB, UMR 5536)

University of Bordeaux, France

In close collaboration with Chipiron (Paris)

Contract

• Fixed-term Research Contract (CDD)

• Duration: 24 months

• Full-time

• Salary: €3,600 gross per month

Scientific Supervisor

Prof. Eric Thiaudière

University of Bordeaux

[email protected]

Industrial Supervisor

Dr. Dimitri Labat

Chipiron

[email protected]

About the Project – REACH

REACH is an industrial–academic R&D project funded by Bpifrance, bringing together Chipiron (Paris, chipiron.co ) and the RMSB laboratory at the University of Bordeaux.

The project aims to develop a low-field preclinical MRI demonstrator, targeting small-animal imaging, with a strong focus on breast cancer detection and monitoring, and on the optimized integration of contrast agents.

This work is part of Chipiron’s broader mission to make MRI more accessible, more compact, and more affordable, by rethinking MRI technology at low magnetic field.

Research Objectives

The goal of this position is to achieve full operability of a novel low-field MRI system capable of producing high-quality preclinical images with acquisition times compatible with in vivo small-animal imaging.

The system includes:

• A 10 mT magnet

• Magnetic field gradients

• A radiofrequency chain operating in the 10 kHz – 1 MHz range (transmit/receive)

• A dedicated sequencing system

The recruited researcher will lead the development, implementation, and optimization of MRI acquisition protocols, with a particular focus on:

• Preclinical imaging (small animal)

• Exploration of contrast-agent–based protocols

• Optimization of image quality (SNR, resolution, contrast) with minimal acquisition time

• Validation of relevant protocols for breast cancer detection and monitoring in animal models

The work will be conducted in close collaboration with a second researcher specialized in electronics and instrumentation, enabling joint development of acquisition strategies and system-level improvements.

Scientific Scope & Themes

This project sits at the intersection of:

• Low-field magnetic resonance

• MRI instrumentation and electronics

• Image acquisition and reconstruction

• Biomedical and tumor imaging

• Contrast-agent–based MRI

Within a strong industry–academia collaboration framework.

Main Activities

• MRI sequence implementation and optimization

• Post-processing: denoising and image reconstruction algorithms

• Comparison with high-field MRI data

• Development of low-field–specific image processing and AI-based methods

• Joint work with an electronics/instrumentation specialist to improve acquisition and post-processing pipelines

• Continuous interaction with Chipiron to support technology transfer, product development, and future commercialization

Research Environment

The RMSB (UMR 5536) is internationally recognized for its expertise in low-field MRI, particularly Overhauser-enhanced MRI (OMRI).

The research environment includes:

• Physicists, engineers, and physico-chemists experienced in MRI system development

• Access to higher-field MRI platforms through the IBIO biomedical imaging facility

Career Development & Impact

Thanks to the strong industry–university partnership, the recruited researcher will strengthen their profile for careers as:

• Research scientist (public or private sector)

• R&D project leader

• Advanced MRI instrumentation specialist

The project offers direct exposure to technology valorization and translational research.

Working Conditions & Safety

• Work primarily based at RMSB, Bordeaux, with regular interaction with Chipiron (Paris)

• All safety regulations are in place

• Dedicated health and safety training provided upon arrival

• No major risks associated with the research activities