Research Associate Sr

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe.

About the Role

In this role, you will play a key role in advancing cutting-edge imaging technologies within Dr. Cristian Badea’s lab. This position focuses on the design, development, and implementation of advanced micro-CT and preclinical photon-counting CT (PCCT) systems. The role supports interdisciplinary efforts integrating hardware innovation, computational imaging, and quantitative analysis to extend CT from anatomical imaging toward functional imaging and theranostics. This position supports the lab’s mission to transform CT imaging by integrating advanced hardware and computational methods to enable functional imaging, precision diagnostics, and theranostic innovation.

Responsibilities

• Support the design, development, testing, and optimization of advanced micro-CT and PCCT systems.
• Collaborate with engineers and physicists to implement and refine imaging hardware solutions.
• Assist in developing and applying advanced image reconstruction methods, including compressed sensing and deep learning techniques.
• Contribute to improving image quality, resolution, and quantitative performance.
• Support the development, implementation, and validation of quantitative imaging biomarkers for cardiac, neuro, and oncology applications.
• Assist with functional imaging and theranostics research studies.
• Contribute to efforts that bridge preclinical imaging innovations with clinical applications.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners on multidisciplinary research initiatives.
• Conduct experiments, analyze data, and maintain detailed documentation of research activities.
• Ensure reproducibility and quality control of research outputs.
• Assist with preparation of manuscripts, abstracts, and grant materials.
• Contribute to dissemination of research findings.
• Provide guidance to junior staff, students, or trainees as appropriate.
• Support lab operations and project coordination.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., Sc.D., M.D., D.V.M.) in Biomedical Engineering, Medical Physics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Greater than 5 years of postdoctoral training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong background in CT imaging, image reconstruction, or computational imaging.
• Experience with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++.
• Demonstrated experience contributing to research projects and publications.

Other Requirements

Onsite. The work is performed on-site or at a designated assignment location.

Benefits

Duke's competitive benefits package includes health insurance plans, generous paid time off, retirement programs with employer contributions, and tuition assistance for employees and their children.