I work in image processing. I work in an oil analysis laboratory. (Its kind of like a pathology for trucks and heavy machinery if you can imagine that). We test oil samples to detect engine trouble.
I've never done a Phd or even honours. I studied a dual degree in Math/IT. You'd probably be better at it than me!
I'm currently working on a project to detect bubbles in oil using image processing. The purpose is to automate lab processes.
The funny thing is, getting this job was kind of an accident. When I applied for the job, the job add just said that they were looking for a pascal programmer. I think they never even hoped to find someone with a math background (let alone image processing).
If you've got a phd and published papers, you're probably already plenty capable! The hard part now is finding the opportunities.
Yes there will be some learning curve in learning programming but I think you will pick this up pretty quickly.
If I were in your position and no other opportunities come up, I'd be looking to get an entry level programmer job in something like laboratory software. This may not entail math at first but provide an opportunity for you to move into that.
The previous job I worked in was insurance software, it had no maths at all.