Assistant Scientist - Natural Language Processing (NLP)

 

Classification Title:

Assistant Scientist

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Specific requirements for the positions include: (1) an earned doctorate in a computer science, biomedical informatics and/or other related field,  and (2) a minimum of 3 years of research experience specifically focused in an area related to natural language processing, machine learning, large language models, multi-modal vision-language models, and their applications in health outcomes.

Job Description:

The Assistant Scientist at the Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics will play a pivotal role in advancing research on biomedical informatics and artificial intelligence (AI) with a focus on natural language processing, machine learning, large language models, multi-modal vision-language models, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology to solve challenging medical problems. This role involves conducting cutting-edge research on AI and developing innovative strategies to promote the application of AI to improve health outcomes. This is a 12-month, full-time (1.0 FTE), non-tenure track research-related appointment.

More About This Role

Research Design and Implementation 

• Designing Research Studies: Develop detailed research protocols and experimental designs related to natural language processing, machine learning, large language models, multi-modal vision-language models. Ensure that methodologies are scientifically rigorous and appropriate for the research questions and include detailed analytic & results dissemination plans.
• Conducting Research: Carry out protocols, experiments, surveys, and assessments according to the designed protocols. This includes IRB documents, data extraction, recruiting participants, conducting assessments, staff training, and lead the team to deliver the research goals.
• Data Management: Support the development and maintenance of databases for research data and/or the development and integration of data collection tools. Ensure data is stored securely and is accessible for analysis.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Oversee the collection of research data, ensuring accuracy and reliability. Use statistical and data analysis software to perform complex analyses. Appropriately apply quantitative and qualitative methods to interpret data trends, correlations, and patterns. Produce actionable insights, draw meaningful conclusions and develop recommendations based on data analysis.
• Reporting Results: Prepare visualizations, summary reports, journal publications and presentations to communicate findings effectively. Share results with the research team and external stakeholders to advance the field.
• Conducting Literature Reviews: Regularly review current literature related to aging, cognitive health, and wellness. Summarize and synthesize findings to inform ongoing and future research projects.
• Integrating New Knowledge: Apply insights from recent research to refine hypotheses, adjust methodologies, and enhance the relevance of research projects. Stay informed about emerging trends and technological advancements.

Outreach and Networking 

• Community Engagement: Participate in the development and implementation of community outreach activities to promote research and foster public understanding of aging and wellness topics.
• Professional Networking & Stakeholder Engagement: Help organize and/or attend professional meetings, networking and stakeholder events to build relationships with research stakeholders including academic, industry, clinical, and community partners to facilitate research and translate/intergrate research into real-world settings.
• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including other researchers, clinicians, and specialists. Participate in regular team meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and strategies.
• Scientific Communication: Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings at conferences, workshops, and meetings. Contribute to writing and revising peer-reviewed publications and grant proposals.
• Provide Service to the University and Profession: participate in department, university, and professional organizations at the local and national level.

Grant Writing and Funding 

• Proposal Development: Assist in drafting grant proposals, including writing sections related to research aims, methodology, and expected outcomes. Collaborate with team members to develop comprehensive and compet