The Kortum Lab at Rice University seeks a Research Specialist I to support ongoing research and clinical studies involving optical imaging technologies for early detection of cancer and infectious disease. The Research Specialist will assist in assembling and maintaining optical imaging devices, conducting testing and experiments, and carrying out clinical studies under supervised guidance. Our lab offers multidisciplinary training and involvement in a wide range of optical imaging projects with clinical applications. More information about our lab’s research projects may be found here:

https://kortum.rice.edu/research

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, and in particular candidates with experience in optical instrumentation (optomechanical hardware and/or instrumentation control) and/or translational clinical studies.

Our department, Rice University’s Department of Bioengineering, is consistently ranked among the top ten in the nation with resources and recognition aiding the success of our trainees. The department maintains close ties to nearby medical institutions including MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor College of Medicine. The campus is located in Houston – the fourth largest and one of the most diverse cities in the US.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field
  • Experience may not be substituted for the education requirement.
• No experience required
• Skills Required
  • Listening, verbal and written communication, analytical, and research skills
  • Good scientific and numerical skills with meticulous attention to details and accuracy
  • Ability to work in a team environment, to participate actively, to collaborate and to motivate others in the lab
  • Critical thinking, technical, and data collection skills
  • Statistical and graphical analysis skills
  • Ability to maintain quality, safety, and infection control standards in accordance with approved clinical research protocols
  • Ability to plan and schedule effectively
  • Ability to interact appropriately and respectfully with clinical personnel and study subjects
  • Ability to occasionally travel internationally (if needed) in support of clinical studies

Essential Functions

• Conducts specialized research and experiments in optical imaging technologies
• Assembles, tests, and maintains optical instruments in support of ongoing clinical studies
• Participates in the development of instruments and software for upcoming clinical studies
• Operates instruments and collect data in the clinical setting (e.g., clinic or operating room)
• Collects, tracks, and analyzes data and quality control
• Communicates results through verbal presentations, written reports, and written articles submitted for publication in conjunction with PI
• Interacts with clinical personnel and study subjects
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions / Information

• This position is in-person on the Rice University campus.
• At times when local clinical studies are ongoing, the Research Specialist will frequently go back and forth to collaborating institutions in the Texas Medical Center adjacent to the Rice campus to operate and maintain instruments. Current imaging projects involve clinical collaborations with MD Anderson Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, and UTHealth School of Dentistry.
• At times when international clinical studies are ongoing, the Research Specialist may occasionally travel to collaborating international clinical sites to deliver, operate, and maintain instruments. Current imaging projects involve clinical sites in Brazil and Mozambique.

Preferences

• Experience with optical instrumentation (optomechanical hardware and/or instrumentation control) and/or translational clinical studies.

About George R. Brown School of Engineering

The George R. Brown School of Engineering ranks among the top 20 of undergraduate engineering programs (US News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff and students in an inclusive environment

We seek greater representation of women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans in disciplines in which they have historically been underrepresented; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought; and we support an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community.

Workplace Requirements

Rice University HR | Benefits

https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits

Rice Mission and Values

Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer with commitment to diversity at all levels, and considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.