Data Science Post Doctoral Research Associate

Location: Hammersmith Hospital 

Job Summary

We are seeking a post-doctoral data scientist to join the Imperial Small Vessel Research Group in the Department of Brain Sciences. This is an exciting opportunity to join our new research programme to establish the causes of cerebral small vessel disease. This is one of the most common causes of stroke and dementia, but our understanding of the disease is limited and therefore we have no treatments. The group combines studies in Big Data, MRI imaging, clinical and physiological cohorts and clinical trials to understand why the disease is so variable, what the underlying pathways are and therefore how to treat it.

This role is funded by an MRC project grant to establish our big data analysis and disease modelling theme. Specifically, this project will use the UK Biobank dataset and other healthcare data to model the mechanisms underlying markers of cerebral small vessel disease. Structural Equation Modelling and similar techniques will be used to test the consistency of different causative models for taking advantage of available structural MRI imaging, biomarkers, summary genetic data and our own novel imaging markers of cerebrovascular physiology, previously derived from the available imaging in UK Biobank. 

We are therefore looking for an experienced, post-doctoral data scientist with expertise in data management and statistical modelling with ‘big data’, including use of high performance computing resources. This post is suitable either for candidates with principal expertise in statistical modelling, or dedicated experience in analysis of MRI images within big datasets. Specific expertise in structural equation modelling or MRI imaging analysis is desirable but not essential, and training will be provided where necessary. The successful applicant will be expected to build up our research team in this area, lead on publications, identify additional funding and to help to build a team of analysts.

Duties and responsibilities 

• Develop statistical models in big datasets to test hypothesised mechanisms underlying small vessel disease.
• Improve identification of potential research participants by imaging markers in big datasets of cerebral small vessel disease.
• To manage and analyse our research datasets.
• To develop and lead our data analysis programme.
• For applicants with imaging analysis experience- to further develop novel MRI imaging analysis to improve physiological measures.
• Manage own research and administrative activities.
• Publish research papers in peer-reviewed journals
• Attend and present work at international conferences
• To identify, apply for and achieve funding to build a research team.

Essential requirements

• Hold a PhD in neurosciences, statistics or a data science discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience
• Experience in handling big datasets and statistical modelling
• Experience in supervision of masters or PhD students.
• Publications in national and internationally recognised journals

Further Information

The post is a full time, fixed term position until March 2027 based at Hammersmith Campus.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range. 

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Alastair Webb, alastair.webb@imperial.ac.uk.

Closing date: 01/09/2024

Apply online via the above ‘Apply’ button.

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