Open Postdoctoral Research Position - Hyperspectral Imaging Application and Data Analysis in Heritage Science

• Develop and implement Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) methodologies for in-situ investigation of cultural heritage objects and architectural surfaces, covering VNIR and SWIR spectral ranges.
• Design and optimize HSI data-processing workflows, including spectral calibration, preprocessing, classification, and mapping.
• Integrate HSI with complementary spectroscopic techniques (Macro-XRF, Raman, FTIR in reflection mode) to enable multimodal data fusion and automated material characterization.
• Apply and further develop machine-learning and statistical models (e.g. PCA, SAM, clustering, neural networks) for spectral interpretation, segmentation, and material identification.
• Create and curate a dedicated HSI spectral library for cultural heritage materials, linking reference samples, mock-ups, and in-situ data, and defining standardized metadata and interoperability formats.
• Maintenance and development of the insiTUMlab data repository in MediaTUM.
• Participate in and coordinate national and international in-situ analytical campaigns, performing on-site documentation and analysis in collaboration with partner institutions.
• Support students supervision (Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD), and contribute to capacity-building activities.
• Prepare scientific publications, technical reports, and standard operating procedures, and participate in dissemination and outreach activities., * Dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment bridging heritage science, materials science, and computational imaging.
• Access to state-of-the-art HSI and spectroscopic instrumentation (HySpex VNIR/SWIR systems, Macro-XRF, Raman, FTIR, etc.).
• Active participation in international in-situ research campaigns on cultural heritage sites.
• Collaboration with leading research institutions and museums (Doerner Institut, Deutsches Museum, etc.).
• Flexible working hours, supportive research environment, and strong mentoring culture.
• Salary according to TV-L (E13, 100%), including full social benefits.
• Career development opportunities and support for publications and conference participation., * Publication list, indicating three selected main papers and explaining shortly your own contribution
• Two letters of recommendation
• Supporting documentation (certificates, transcripts, etc.) Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which will include a max. 10-minute presentation of their own research work.

Send applications by 31 January 2026 to:

Dr. Clarimma Sessa Head of the insiTUMlab - Analytical Infrastructure for Non-Destructive In-Situ Studies of Cultural Heritage, Chair of Conservation-Restoration, Art Technology and Conservation Science Technical University of Munich

Email: clarimma.sessa@tum.de

The position is suitable for disabled persons. Disabled applicants will be given preference in case of generally equivalent suitability, aptitude and professional performance.

PhD degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Systems & Control, Statistics, Computational Physics, Computational Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or Heritage Science, or any field related to the lab’s research topics. Proven experience with Hyperspectral Imaging or related spectroscopic imaging methods. Strong background in data processing, image/signal analysis, and machine learning. Familiarity with instrument control, calibration, and automation workflows. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (German is an advantage). Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities and motivation to work in an interdisciplinary environment. Creative, open-minded, and proactive attitude with a high degree of autonomy. High interest in cultural heritage applications.