Research Assistant - School of Medicine, Biomedical Engineering

• Discover Your Career at Emory University
• Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
• Description

•

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary goal is to explore the usage of machine learning (ML) techniques to analyze large-scale MRI datasets for the extraction of quantitative imaging biomarkers that can predict disease outcomes and improve cardiovascular risk stratification. For example, by using whole-body MRI (wbMRI) to assess organ-specific biological aging, we aim to create standardized and explainable ML models that support early detection of cardiovascular risk. Developing models that perform comparably to state-of-the-art deep learning architectures while improving interpretability and clinical applicability remains a key objective of this analysis.

OBJECTIVES

1. Develop ML-based segmentation and biomarker extraction pipelines using large-scale MRI datasets. 2. Validate and optimize ML models for robust feature extraction and quantitative model verification, emphasizing explainability and reproducibility. 3. Conduct statistical and survival analyses to assess associations between imaging biomarkers and disease outcomes and report the findings to the scientific community.

MILESTONES

1. Software Development (1 month): Design and implement automated pipelines for MRI processing, segmentation, and biomarker quantification. 2. Model Development and Validation (1 month): Train, optimize, and validate ML models to ensure robustness and reproducibility while reducing manual analysis time by approximately 70%. 3. Manuscript and Abstract Preparation (half month): Compile results and submit a research abstract to a major cardiovascular conference.

OUTCOMES

+ Learning new deep learning-based computer vision algorithms applied to medical image segmentation, focusing on UKBioBank Whole Body images initially. + Gaining experience in research writing journals and conference publications. + Developing skills to present research results to the scientific community effectively. In the next phase, this work will evolve from single-organ analysis to a comprehensive, system-wide understanding of biological aging using the entire 80,000-participant UK Biobank dataset. By developing individualized organ-age models, quantifying systemic aging differences, and standardizing segmentation pipelines, the project will establish a scalable framework for integrating imaging, clinical, and genomic data. These advancements will not only enable high-precision cardiovascular risk prediction but also contribute to a broader understanding of how aging manifests across organ systems. Ultimately, the insights gained will form the foundation for a publishable journal manuscript, support thesis preparation, and advance the long-term goal of translating AI-driven imaging biomarkers into real-world clinical decision-making.

• Additional Details
• Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.

Telephone:

404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

• Connect With Us!
• Connect with us for general consideration!
• Job Number
• _165117_
• Job Type
• _Temporary Full-Time_
• Division
• _School Of Medicine_
• Department
• _

SOM:

BME:

Admin_

• Job Category
• _Laboratory Research_
• Campus Location (For Posting) : Location
• _US-GA-Atlanta_
• _

Location :

Name_

• _Emory Campus-Clifton Corridor_
• Remote Work Classification
• _Primarily On Campus_
• Health and Safety Information
• _Working in a laboratory_