Position Summary

The Luna Lab, directed by Dr. Jose Marcio Luna, offers meaningful projects at the forefront of translational cancer imaging research. The selected candidate will lead or participate in projects developing, implementing, and applying computational image analytics and artificial intelligence algorithms for investigating associations between inflammatory, stromal/ECM and cancer cell components extracted from molecular images, and signatures derived from radiological images to improve treatment guidance and prognostication of a variety of cancers. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment and to closely interact with world-class radiologists, medical physicists, oncologists, biostatisticians and imaging scientists. The candidate will also have ample opportunities to publish research methods and scientific findings in academic journals and at premier scientific conferences. We are dedicated to maintaining a vibrant and diverse working environment and to providing as many opportunities as possible for young trainees to pursue their scientific and professional goals. The position is initially available for up to two years and can be renewed based on performance and funding availability.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Manages their own project, preparing and submitting research publications.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Assists in the design of research experiments.
• Develops proficiency in their ancillary skills, e.g., writing, public speaking, networking, critical evaluation of scientific documents, etc.
• Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of scientific work both inside and outside the University.
• Provides guidance and mentorship for more junior lab members.
• Maintains conscientious discharge of their research responsibilities.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Complies with good laboratory practice, including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Maintains open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Maintains collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adheres to all applicable University policies, procedures, and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in the fields of Biomedical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Bioinformatics, or related fields.

Preferred Qualifications

• Record of accomplishments in at least one of the following fields: medical image analysis, radiomics, machine learning/AI, multiomics, informatics.
• Proficiency in quantitative analytical methods and computer programming (Python, Matlab, shell scripting).
• Excellent Interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work effectively independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
• Highly motivated to make an impact in advancing computational imaging & machine learning/AI in cancer detection and prognosis.
• Training in deep learning.
• Experience with radiological images (with preference on PET/CT and MRI) and/or histopathology images.
• Background in scientific computing (e.g., Unix/Linux experience).

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

To apply, please contact Dr. Jose Marcio Luna, PhD, Assistant Professor at jose.luna@wustl.edu with the following:

• Cover letter describing your research interests.
• Current curriculum vitae.
• Name and contact information for three references who are familiar with your work.
• Two to three representative publications.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.