Physics Engineering
Work description
The proposed research focuses on advanced multimodal spectral and 3D sensing for underwater environments. It will address the influence of absorption, scattering, turbidity, illumination and acquisition geometry on optical measurements, while developing robust approaches for underwater material characterization. The project will combine spectroscopy and spectral imaging with conventional imaging and 3D information. Depending on the application, techniques may include hyperspectral imaging, Raman spectroscopy, LIBS and/or XRF, together with calibration, multimodal co-registration, data fusion and machine-learning methods. The research will involve several main tasks: • Underwater Sensor Development and Calibration — Characterize underwater optical effects and adapt or develop sensing configurations, including illumination, detection, optical interfaces, housings and acquisition electronics. • Multimodal and 3D Integration — Co-register and combine spectroscopic, spectral imaging, conventional imaging and 3D data acquired over common regions of interest. • Data Processing and Machine Learning — Develop calibration, correction, data-fusion and machine-learning methods for material identification, mapping and information transfer between sensing modalities. • Experimental Validation — Perform controlled laboratory and underwater tests followed by validation under representative conditions and, where feasible, integration with ROVs or AUVs. The expected outcome is a validated multimodal underwater sensing framework combining spectral, spatial and 3D information. Applications may include underwater cultural heritage, marine and geological materials, environmental monitoring and underwater inspection.
Academic Qualifications
Master’s degree in Physics Engineering
Minimum profile required
- Hold a Degree or Master’s degree in Physics Engineering or a related field, with valorization in Physics or a related field, and have a scientific and professional CV that demonstrates a suitable profile for the activities to be carried out.- Not have previously been awarded a doctoral grant or a doctoral grant in companies directly funded by FCT, regardless of its duration.- Reside permanently and habitually in Portugal at the start date of the period of the work plan to be carried out abroad, should the proposed work plan include a period at foreign institutions (mixed grants). This requirement applies to both Portuguese and foreign citizens.- Not hold a doctoral degree.
Preference factors
- Experience in spectroscopy and/or spectral or hyperspectral imaging (e.g., LIBS, Raman,XRF, HSI); - Development and integration of optical or optomechanical sensing systems; - Proficiency in automation of systems; - Experience with image processing, 3D imaging, photogrammetry or multimodal data integration; - Programming skills for signal processing, data analysis and machine learning.
Application Period
Since 01 Oct 2026 to 15 Oct 2026
Centre
Applied Photonics
Scientific Advisor
Diana Filipa Guimarães