Research Biomedical Engineer

Under the supervision of the Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery this position will manage and perform research in the Biomechanics Laboratory involving mechanical evaluation of human musculoskeletal tissues. The hypotheses are formulated using physiology and classical theories in mechanics and then tested using in-vitro and in-vivo models. The work involves the use of mechanical models, simulators and cadavers.

Manage and supervise Biomechanical Research:

• Manage and supervise a diverse group of individuals including undergraduate, medical and engineering students and orthopaedic residents and post-doctoral fellows to accomplish program goals and objectives. 
• Organize multiple research projects, set priorities and delegate tasks to ensure deadlines are met. Convey scientific biomedical engineering concepts to these individuals in order for them to perform biomechanical research.

Performs Biomechanical Research:

• Design and perform biomedical tests on articular cartilage, bone, and other biological tissues in physiological simulated conditions. 
• This requires being aware of the current state of the research field and keeping up with the literature in orthopedic as well as biomechanical journals.
• The incumbent will also be required to help design and develop new experimental apparatus where knowledge of orthopedic surgery, mechanics and physics is required. Includes conceptualizing the test equipment and either supervising the construction or performing it.
• The incumbent will be required to perform the tests that have been developed in the biomechanics lab, i.e., kinematics of diarthrodial joints, biomechanical and structural assessment as well as functional and failure characteristics of musculoskeletal tissues.
  
  • This requires setting up the test equipment, obtaining samples, calibrating the measuring and recording devices~ modifying the samples to proper geometry, performing the tests and analyzing the results. The incumbent must have the ability to calibrate and operate various recording instruments.
  • Knowledge of partial differential equations, advanced numerical analysis are essential in the analysis at the experimental results. The incumbent also must have good understanding of linear algebra, differential equations and numerical analysis. Some computer programming knowledge is also necessary.
  • Arranges data in formats required by review process. Performs a variety of administrative duties to maintain specialized data and implement study design.
• Extracts, Compiles, Computes and Presents Data: Applies and adapts a variety of computation and analysis methods. Extracts data from a variety of sources, which requires knowledge of use of the data and the pertinence of the source. Recognizes reporting errors, inconsistencies, and other deficiencies in the technical data using knowledge of the methods by which the data was derived. Adapts either source or analysis to compensate for inadequacies. Selects the method for presenting the data using statistical and graphical methods of curve fitting and curve smoothing. Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Supervisory Controls:

• The supervisor sets the overall objectives and resources available.
  • The employee and supervisor, in consultation, develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be done. 
  • The employee, having developed expertise in the line of work, is responsible for planning and carrying out the assignment, resolving most of the conflicts that arise, coordinating the work with others as necessary, and interpreting policy on own initiative in terms of established objectives.
  • After the protocol is established and the investigator develops methods and steps, the incumbent will manage and supervise a diverse group of individuals to ensure program goals and objectives are met and may also independently carry out experimental procedures and techniques.

Computer Security:

• Protects the data from unauthorized release or from loss, alteration, or unauthorized deletion. 
• Follows applicable regulations and instructions regarding access to computerized files, release of access codes, etc.
• Uses word processing software to execute several office automation functions such as storing and retrieving electronic documents and files; activating printers; inserting and deleting text, formatting letters, reports, and memoranda; and transmitting and receiving e-mail. 

Safety:

• Fosters a profile Occupational Safety and Health Program by assuring employee awareness of potential safety hazards, promptly reporting all injuries and effecting corrective actions necessary to eliminate safety and health hazards in the work area.
• Infection control practices for disease prevention (i.e. hand washing, universal precaution/isolation procedures, including TB requirements/precautions). 
• Reports safety hazards, accidents and injuries. 
• Implements and monitors Emergency Preparedness plan. 
• Implements and monitors security policies/procedures.

Qualifications:

• MS degree or higher in Bioengineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in orthopaedic biomechanics research.
• Author of 100+ peer reviewed publications in orthopaedic biomechanics research.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Relationships with the principal investigator, management, co-workers, patients, and the general public should be consistently courteous, respectful, and cooperative in nature.
• Incumbent should display a cooperative attitude and will effectively work together to implement the organization’s mission and goals.
• Incumbent should ensure productivity is maintained at the established level for the program for which he/she is responsible.
• Incumbent is required to possess basic understanding of the particular needs of various age groups of people. Employee should be sensitive to the special needs of all people in respect to age, developmental requirements, and culturally related factors.