GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT: Summarize the nature and level of work performed.


We are seeking applicants interested in working as a research engineer in a core facility that provides microcomputed tomography (µCT), mechanical testing, and clinical HR-pQCT imaging services. This is a multidisciplinary position that will involve imaging and mechanical testing of ex-vivo samples as well as performing imaging on subjects who are participating in clinical studies. We are seeking an applicant who is highly-motivated, organized, willing to learn, and who has excellent communication skills. The research engineer will be supervised by the core facility manager but also must be able to perform self-directed work. This position will involve image acquisition and analysis, mechanical testing of biological samples, drafting summary reports, developing analysis protocols, writing and validating computer codes for imaging and mechanical analysis, and may include the potential for authorship or acknowledgement in scientific publications and presentations.


PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Indicate key areas of responsibility, major job duties, special projects and key objectives for this position. These items should be evaluated throughout the year and included in the written annual evaluation.


- Perform microCT and HR-pQCT scanning and analysis, including quality control of scans and analyses


- Manage the daily operation of the HR-pQCT Imaging Core and respond to requests for data


- Responsible for training and supervising users of microCT system


- Develops new image analysis techniques


- Trains new employees on how to perform HR-pQCT scans which is a very complex system that requires great expertise


- Train new employees on how to perform HR-pQCT analysis


- Acts as main contact for maintenance of HR-pQCT and microCT systems' hardware and software


- Performs advanced troubleshooting on our microCT and HR-pQCT systems


- Perform mechanical testing of biological samples


- Prepare results spreadsheets and draft report summarizing findings


- Maintains laboratory notebook and other records of analysis


- Sets up and prepares experiments as directed


- Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and maintain equipment


- May perform small animal dissection


- Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation


- Maintains and orders supplies and assist with billing for core services


- Develop and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for tasks performed by the core


- Works independently with minimal supervision


- May assist in designing test fixtures and writing analysis codes for imaging and mechanical analysis.



Qualifications

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: Must be realistic, objective, measurable and related to essential functions of this job.


- Ability to work independently and as a team member


- Excellent communication skills for working with researchers, clinicians, and study subjects


- High degree of computer literacy (MS Office, MATLAB, and the ability to learn new software)


- Knowledge of mechanical testing methods and analysis


- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills


- High attention to detail


- Must be able to perform multiple tasks independently


- Knowledge of anatomical terminology and bone biology


- Knowledge of basic statistics (t-test and ANOVA)


- Ability to push a person in a wheeled chair as well as kneel down while positioning human subjects for imaging


- Ability to remain in a standing position about 50% of the time


LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or REGISTRATIONS (if applicable): Specify minimum credentials and clearly indicate if preferred or required


None required, but may need to become certified by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry


EDUCATION: Specify minimum education and clearly indicate if preferred or required


Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering (biomedical, mechanical, or similar) is required


EXPERIENCE: Specify minimum creditable years of experience and clearly indicate if preferred or required


- Some lab experience in addition to school lab experience is desirable, but not required


- Experience with microCT or other medical imaging is desirable, but not required


- Experience with mechanical testing and/or coursework in mechanics of materials is required.


- Coursework or projects completed may be considered related experience, and may be credited upon hire



EEO Statement

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.