Postdoctoral Fellow in Biomechanical Evaluation of Wearable Technology

Harvard University; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University is seeking a candidate for a research project with the Biodesign Lab, focusing on biomechanical and clinical evaluations of a back exosuit. Responsibilities include data collection and analysis in clinical and field studies, with regular travel expected. Strong qualifications include a Ph.D. in a relevant field, a background in statistics, and experience in human subjects studies. The role offers opportunities for mentorship, publishing, and participation in international conferences.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant field.
• Strong background in statistics.
• Experience with human subjects studies.
• CITI certified and trained in Good Clinical Practice.
• Experience with participant recruitment and retention methods.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting and analyzing data from human subjects.
• Support field study evaluating technology in clinical and industrial settings.
• Organize and quality check survey data.

Skills

Statistics background

Human subjects studies

Attention to detail

CITI certification

REDCap experience

Education

Ph.D. in Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Movement Science, Physiology, Biomedical Engineering

Job description

Position Description

The Harvard Biodesign Lab invites applications for an immediate opening on a research project focused on biomechanical, physiological, and clinical evaluations of a back exosuit that is lightweight and pliable and can assist with hip and back movement by applying appropriately timed joint torques to the wearer. The successful candidate will have clinical trial and human subjects experience, will work as part of a larger team to assist with collecting and analyzing data gathered from human subjects, both in field, clinic and lab studies as part of evaluations of the technology.

A large part of the role will focus on supporting a yearlong field study evaluating the technology in clinical and industrial settings. This may involve regular travel to be on site and interface directly with other clinical or industrial partners. Additionally, the role will involve the weekly organization and quality checking of survey data to ensure all documented IRB protocol procedures are followed and data is collected correctly.

Experience working with human subjects and associated research regulations, including the IRB, is an important part of the role. For lab‑based studies, the candidate will have access to state‑of‑the‑art equipment (Qualysis cameras, Bertec force plates in an over‑ground walkway, a Bertec instrumented treadmill, Delsys Trigno surface electromyography system, and Cosmed K4b2 metabolic test system). The candidate should have a strong interest in contributing to multidisciplinary teams and will be expected to publish scholarly papers and attend international conferences, as well as take on a mentorship role for undergraduate and graduate students. The appointment would start immediately and be for at least 12 months, depending on candidate availability.

Qualifications

1. A Ph.D. in Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Movement Science, Physiology, Biomedical Engineering or a related field.
2. A strong background in statistics, and previous experience in human subjects studies with wearable technology and working with both healthy and patient populations.
3. Experience with participant recruitment and retention methods.
4. CITI certified and trained in Good Clinical Practice.
5. Experience with REDCap, data collection and entry preferred.
6. Attention to detail and professionalism.
7. PT background and eligibility for physical therapy licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a plus but not required.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non‑discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non‑discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.