Staff Scientist

Department

BSD SUR - Vascular Surgery: Research

About the Department

The SurgBioMech Lab is run by Dr. Luka Pocivavsek and Dr. Nhung Nguyen in the Department of Surgery. It is an interdisciplinary lab that combines the physical sciences, engineering, and medicine. We apply principles from differential geometry and mechanics to understand aortic pathology, stability and failure of endovascular repairs, stress focusing phenomena induced by surgical interventions, and interfacial adhesion, surface renewal, and topography. We utilize advanced computational methods to extract and define geometric feature spaces that can be linked to mechanical instabilities from patient derived data; finite element methods to model a variety of complex systems, geometries, and materials under different loading conditions; computational fluid dynamics to study stability of seal zones with flow; micro-computed tomography to detect the underlying fiber-reinforced structures of tissues; x-ray scattering techniques to probe the structure and interactions of cell monolayers on solid substrates; and Langmuir monolayers to study the wrinkling, folding, and collapse behaviors of films at air/water interfaces.

Job Summary

The SurgBioMech laboratory is seeking a staff scientist to help support Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence research. The staff scientist will be responsible for supporting ongoing research efforts at quantification of aortic geometry derived from CT scans. Furthermore, the individual will be responsible for closely working with collaborators in computer science on a project relating to conformal mapping. Minimal technical preferences include: expert level proficiency in programing (Python, C++), advanced proficiency in neural network model development, training, and validation, advanced proficiency in computer vision, and proficient knowledge of differential geometry and topology.

The appointment is for 1 year with possibility to renew. This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored employment authorization.

Responsibilities

• Supports machine learning and artificial intelligence in the SurBioMech lab.

• Supports ongoing research efforts of quantification of aortic geometry derived from CT scans.

• Works closely with collaborators and stakeholders in computer science on a conformal mapping project.

• Applies research principles and relevant subject matter knowledge relevant to administer a research project. With a moderate level of direction, manages lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Helps develop, design and conduct research projects according to plan.

• Supports data collection and analytical needs of research projects. Conducts literature reviews and helps write reports and manuscripts. Ensures project compliance with different policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.

Preferred Competencies

• Expert level proficiency in programming (Python, C++).

• Advanced proficiency in neural network model development, training, and validation.

• Advanced proficiency in computer vision.

• Proficiency in differential geometry and topology.

Working Conditions

• Shared office space within Section of Vascular Surgery.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover letter (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$60,000.00 - $80,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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