Join the Fight Against Traumatic Brain Injury: Research Assistant Opportunity

Are you a passionate computer, electrical, biomedical engineer or a professional with a similar technical background seeking to make a real difference? Do you have expertise in computing, signal processing, and data analysis? This is your chance to join a multidisciplinary team dedicated to ground-breaking research in brain monitoring for patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Why TBI research matters

TBI is one of the leading causes of death among young adults, with survivors often facing severe disabilities, diminished quality of life, and significant societal costs. It is estimated that approximately 69 million individuals worldwide sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year. Despite advances in critical care, outcomes for TBI patients have remained stagnant for decades.

At the Brain Physics Laboratory, part of the Division of Neurosurgery in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Cambridge, we're pushing the boundaries of TBI research. Our mission is to develop innovative, data-driven methodologies and technologies that not only enhance our understanding of TBI but also lead to computer-guided, individualised, therapies for improved patient outcomes.

The role

We're looking for a motivated and reliable Research Assistant to join our dynamic and world-renowned Brain Physics Lab, led by Dr Peter Smielewski, creator of the globally recognized brain-monitoring software, ICM+ (Learn More). This is a full-time, 2-year role offering the chance to contribute to high-impact projects such as:

  • STARSHIP, which focuses on brain-monitoring metrics to improve pediatric brain injury treatment in the UK.
  • TBI-REPORTER, a UK-wide research platform aimed at transforming TBI treatment for both adults and children.

Your key responsibilities

  • Overseeing data collection for the TBI-REPORTER project, including occasional site visits to participating UK centers.
  • Participating in post-processing physiological time series data and integrating it with clinical information for submission to a central data repository.
  • Supporting development of novel biomarkers based on signal processing, statistical analysis, and machine learning algorithms.
  • Managing computing infrastructure and monitoring databases.
  • Supervising neuro-monitoring activities in the intensive care unit.
  • Supporting neuro-monitoring training events and collaborative research initiatives.

What we're looking for

Qualifications

Degree in computer, electrical, biomedical engineering (or equivalent).

Skills

  • Background in computing, signal processing, and data analysis.

Attributes

  • A team player with excellent problem-solving abilities, strong organizational skills, and a passion for research that impacts lives.

Why join us?

  • Be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team at the cutting edge of neuroscience research.
  • Work on projects that can redefine TBI care worldwide.
  • Gain hands-on experience in advanced data analysis, machine learning, and brain monitoring technologies.
  • Contribute to life-saving research and improve outcomes for TBI patients.

This role is based in Cambridge, with occasional travel across the UK. If you're ready to make an impact, we'd love to hear from you!