Research Engineer

The University Claude Bernard Lyon 1 in the framework of the SPCCT European project (Spectral Photon Counting Computed Tomography) opens a 2-years position in the field of biomedical imaging. The post holder will work as part of a multidisciplinary team responsible for the research and will interact and work under the guidance of other more senior staff; the primary responsibility will be to develop and evaluate novel data analysis algorithms and to facilitate pre clinical and clinical implementation of novel technology. The person will also assist with pre-clinical and clinical studies (e.g. facilitating data transfer and adherence to quality standards, analysis of results and reporting). It is anticipated that the outcomes of the research will lead to publications and presentations at local and international conferences.

The post-holder will be based in the CERMEP (CERMEP-Imaging of living organisms (biological and medical imaging platform dedicated to clinical and fundamental research)). The position offers considerable scope for personal development. UCBL offers a range of staff training and development courses that will be available to the successful candidate. UCBL is an equal opportunities employer.
 

Person Specification:

SPCCT research engineer position requires an individual who is professional, self-learner, with can-do approach, team player and good communication skills. In this role, you will be part of an international and multidisciplinary research team that is developing a new spectral photon counting CT system (SPCCT).

Examples of current analysis development linked to clinical research projects are listed below:

• Characterizing and Improving Quantification of spectral CT Biomarkers for Evaluation of Disease Progression and Treatment Effectiveness in cardio and neuro vascular disease.
• Analysis of multi-parametric MRI and spectral CT data for cardio and neuro vascular applications including CT and MR perfusion.

 

Anticipated projects include:

• Evaluation of novel contrast media for spectral CT imaging for cardio and neuro vascular applications.

 

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the research project activity (review project definition for appropriateness, advise on best ways to use the scanner, scan and analysis scheduling, results consolidation) for all activities using the SPCCT system.
• Develop and validate novel algorithms applicable to SPCCT, and dual energy CT, pre-clinical and clinical research studies.
• Ensure effective communication between the multi international partners in academia and clinicians and research for the timely completion of research projects wherein those partners are using the SPCCT system.
• Managing all the data being generated by the system, research databases, system configuration, updates, and data manipulation, including images transferred/stored in the PACS or other archival systems
• Assist in developing new tools and algorithms for analyzing, viewing and processing spectral CT data.
• Work with the project partners to assist and sometimes perform data analysis.
• Work with the SPCCT research operator to assure smooth daily operation of the system and sometimes execute scanning for the research projects and assist or execute scanning of animals when part of the pre-clinical research projects
• Participate in publications of results, including manuscript writing.
• Explore and propose and potentially lead new research opportunities for the system.
• Present the SPCCT Project and research results at workshops and conferences.

 

Period: 2 years starting from end 2017/early 2018 that can be renewed during 4 years. Multiple advantages for people interested in an academic career.

 

Requirements:

• Good first degree in physics, engineering or computer science or equivalent (2:1 or higher).
• PhD (or doctoral thesis near completion/submission) in medical physics, medical image analysis or related area including substantial elements of medical image processing.
• Experience coordinating research projects.
• Experience with Image processing/analysis and statistical data analysis.
• Ability to occasionally assist the research operator in daily scanner operations.
• Very good English communication skills both verbal and written.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas are an advantage:
  • Prior experience operating medical devices such as CT in a research environment
  • Participation in multi-site research programs.
  • Comfortable with the need to perform complex mathematical derivations.
  • Proven ability for independent research as demonstrated by publications and présentations.
  • Familiarity with a major statistical software package, e.g. SPSS.
  • Experience with co-supervision of students, trainees or junior staff members
  • Experience with programing in Matlab / C++
  • Scientific interests: computer science (medical image processing), good understanding of X-rays, Image acquisition, Sensors, 3D reconstruction, material decomposition, Image processing.
  • French communication skills both verbal and written

 

Other essential characteristics and aptitudes:

• Careful and systematic approach to research including data analysis, data archiving and research record keeping.
• Good communication skills, ability to express scientific ideas clearly.
• Ability to organise its own time and work according to planned deadlines.
• Ability to work independently but as a team member as well.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain the required levels of confidentiality.

 

Confidentiality:

• The post holder is required to uphold and maintain the security of all information systems he or she has access to, and to ensure the absolute confidentiality of all patient details at all times