Research Associate - Biomedical Engineering

POSITION OBJECTIVE

We are seeking to appoint a Research Associate to work on an AI in imaging project.

Working with a high degree of independence, the Research Associate will develop and publish the state-of-the-art machine learning and medical image analysis algorithms.

Working closely with the principal investigator and in collaboration with the research team, the Research Associate will coordinate and conduct all research activities in lab, managing complex research of a non-routine nature.

The research associate will monitor, and revise data collection tools and procedures as warranted and assist the principal investigator with data management and study alignment with regulatory oversight.

The research associate will communicate with clinical staff at the data collection sites, will train, mentor and provide oversight to students and research assistants as well as address problems that may occur.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Coordinate and Conduct Research Activities in the Laboratory (50%). The Research Associate will lead and manage day-to-day research operations related to medical image analysis. This includes direct collaboration with the PI and other team members, coordinating lab activities, supporting other lab members, and ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities under this function may include:

• Plan and execute experiments for PI-led or jointly developed projects; oversee lab members' experiments, resources, and experimental strategies.
• Conduct scientific techniques relevant to the project (e.g., development and validation).
• Train lab members in established and newly developed techniques.
• Mentor and guide lab staff and graduate students; ensure experiments follow the research plan and safety standards.
• Assess, update, and develop new standard operating procedures (SOPs) to streamline lab processes.

2. Write and Publish Research Papers (35%). The Research Associate will be expected to generate high-quality manuscripts and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. This includes preparing figures, analyzing data, contributing to grant proposals, and disseminating results in lab meetings or conferences. Responsibilities under this function may include:

• Present research data in internal meetings, external conferences, or seminars.
• Prepare, write, and submit scientific manuscripts as first author or co-author.
• Contribute figures and preliminary data for research funding proposals.

3. Address Key Issues in Medical Image Analysis (10%). The Research Associate will lead efforts in organizing data, troubleshooting collection tools, and maintaining quality standards in datasets to meet study protocols and regulatory expectations. Responsibilities under this function may include:

• Develop and validate medical image analysis tools and procedures based on study needs.
• Identify and resolve imaging data inconsistencies or gaps.
• Provide analysis summaries and findings to the PI; contribute to research decisions.

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform other duties as assigned (5%)

CONTACTS

Department: Daily contact with the principal investigator, co-investigators, and other research team members to collaborate on work.

University: Regular contact with investigators conducting similar research within the university at education and research meetings to exchange information.

External: Regular contact with medical staff at University Hospitals, and with collaborating research institutions and their research staff to exchange information.

Students: Regular contact with graduate students and fellows who may assist with the project for supervisory purposes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct supervisory responsibilities. Will train, mentor and provide oversight to lab staff and students.

QUALIFICATIONS

PhD or other terminal degree and 0-3 years of post-degree experience

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Relevant expertise in computer vision and machine learning (AI algorithm development experience preferred).

2. Proactive, independent, and self-directed in delivering high-quality work.

3. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage projects, data, and documentation across teams and institutions.

4. Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and scholarly activities with minimal supervision.

5. Proven track record of publishing research in peer-reviewed venues.

6. Excellent communication skills (written and verbal), with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

7. Strong interpersonal and social skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

8. Experience administering and managing data collection instruments.

9. Highly motivated, conscientious, and eager to learn.

WORKING CONDITIONS

No exposure to hazardous materials. Must be able to travel between Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals clinic regularly.