The HCT laboratory at the University of British Columbia is seeking a talented researcher with skills needed for investigating three-dimensional computer modeling and simulation of anatomical structures involved with swallowing. The researcher will participate in creating dynamic, 3D, patient-specific computer models of oral and upper airway anatomy to predict functional mastication and swallowing outcomes for head and neck treatment and surgery including aspiration risk. The research will work with our clinical partners to develop predictions to optimize functional outcomes through simulation and design of surgery, surgical guides, prostheses, implant installation and post-operative treatment regimens. For this position, you will join a world-class interdisciplinary team of scientific and clinical investigators and collaborators working on medical image capture and processing, 3D anatomical model extraction, biomechanical simulation of swallowing including food bolus models and surgical prediction of functional outcomes.

The research associate/post-doc fellow is expected to work closely with the four investigators, Drs Sidney Fels (UBC), Rafeef Abugharbieh (UBC), Sheldon Green (UBC) and John Wolfaardt (U. of Alberta). The ideal RA/Post-doc fellow will be actively:

1. Managing and conducting swallowing research using medical image capture, segmentation and registration from medical image data, finite element model construction and simulation, and clinical applications of modeling and simulation technologies;
2. Publishing in top-quality journals and conferences;
3. Developing research and endowment funding through grant writing, industrial liaison and other agencies;
4. Managing the operations of the project with its academic and clinical partners; and,
5. Participating in the day-to-day operation of the project’s administrative operations to ensure that deadlines are met, resources are used effectively, new opportunities are followed up and expectations are realized including co-supervision of students on the project.

Important Skills
There are a number of desirable skills that the research associate/post-doc is expected to bring to this project:

1. Demonstration of research excellence through high quality publications and outcomes in related areas;
2. PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or related field.
3. Computer programing skills with an emphasis on Java as we use Artisynth (www.artisynth.org) extensively;
4. Knowledge of human anatomy and function with an emphasis on the head and neck region;
5. Ability to work with faculty, clinicians, technical and non-technical staff, students, industry and government;
6. Ability to delegate authority and responsibility while maintaining overall control of a variety of activities; and,
7. Ability to cope with fast-paced and dynamic multidisciplinary research projects.

Performance
The successful candidate is expected to publish and secure grant funding. They are also evaluated on how many sub-projects that were facilitated through their participation.

More information can be found at:
artisynth.magic.ubc.ca/artisynth/pmwiki.php?n=Swallowing.HomePage

The University of British Columbia hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a statement (1-2 pages) of technical interests and accomplishments, and names and addresses of three referees to Dr. Sidney Fels at ssfels@ece.ubc.ca.