Position for a multidisciplinary project

Research Project Overview

Image-based characterization of bone quality and strength is essential for accurately assessing fracture risk in the elderly and optimizing orthopedic planning and procedures. This postdoctoral fellow (PDF) position is part of a multidisciplinary research program funded by the University of Manitoba through the Ignite Program (https://umanitoba.ca/research/opportunities-support%23research-supports-and-services/ignite-program) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada, led by Dr. Yunhua Luo (Principal Investigator). This position offers an excellent opportunity to collaborate with scientists from various disciplines, to tackle challenges and advance understanding of bone mechanics and biological health.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direction of Dr. Yunhua Luo (https://umanitoba.ca/engineering/faculty-staff/mechanical-engineering/yunhua-luo), the PDF will lead the research activities of the project. Core responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Collaborating with imaging specialists to image bone specimens.
• Working with industrial partners to conduct mechanical testing of bone properties.
• Partnering with chemists for the chemical analysis of bone composition.
• Designing, developing, and training artificial neural networks (ANN) for predicting bone strength.
• Publishing at least two high-quality journal papers as the first author per year.
• Assisting Dr. Yunhua Luo in the supervision of graduate students.
• Note: All collaborators mentioned are part of the existing Ignite Program team.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field such as biomechanics, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline.
• Extensive knowledge and experience with imaging technologies, particularly in biological or material sciences.
• Knowledge of mechanical testing. Familiarity with mechanical testing methods for evaluating material properties, preferably with experience in testing biological tissues or composite materials.
• Knowledge and experience in chemical analysis. Understanding of chemical composition analysis techniques, particularly related to biological tissues or composite materials, is an asset.
• Proficiency in artificial neural networks (ANN). Strong background in designing, developing, and training ANNs or other machine learning models for predictive analysis, especially in the context of material or biological systems.
• Collaborative experience. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including industrial partners, chemists, and imaging specialists.
• Supervisory or mentoring experience. Experience assisting in the supervision of graduate students or junior researchers.
• Strong communication skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration and reporting on research outcomes.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting salary of over $50,000 (CAD), with the final offer commensurate with experience and expertise. Benefits include a pension plan, health insurance, employment insurance, and more.
• The initial appointment is for one year, with a strong potential for extension based on performance. A salary increase may be offered for the second year, depending on performance.

How to Apply

Candidates interested in applying for this fellowship opportunity are invited to submit the following documents to Dr. Yunhua Luo (Yunhua.Luo@umanitoba.ca):

• A cover letter detailing how you meet the required qualifications and outlining strategies to address any qualifications you may not currently possess.
• A full resume/CV.
• A tentative research plan.
• Published papers that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.
• The names and contact information (including email addresses) of three references.
• The deadline for accepting applications is 5:00PM, November 30, 2024.

Note: The successful candidate is expected to start the position as soon as possible, but no later than the beginning of 2025. Application reviews will begin upon receipt, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

About the University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba is a dynamic and innovative institution recognized nationally and internationally for its excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement. As Manitoba’s premier university and a leader in collaborative learning and research, we are committed to shaping the future through discovery, creativity, and scholarship. To learn more about our university and the vibrant city of Winnipeg, please visit www.umanitoba.ca.
The University of Manitoba is dedicated to fostering diversity within its community, viewing it as a source of strength, innovation, and cultural enrichment. We actively welcome individuals who will contribute to the further diversification of our university, including but not limited to women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis), persons with disabilities, and individuals of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The University of Manitoba understands that career paths may vary, and legitimate career interruptions will not affect the evaluation of candidates. These circumstances will be carefully considered during the assessment process.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Interviews will be conducted via Teams or other media convenient for both parties. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.