Research Scientist

Job Description

The Department of Biology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist 3 to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Dr. Bing Wen Brunton, Professor, the Research Scientist 3 is responsible for ongoing research activities in the Brunton Lab. This position will contribute to the field of “embodiment”, which integrates neuroscience with biomechanics, providing novel insight system function. In particular, this position will contribute to a novel research program which harnesses new connectome data for Drosophila with biomechanical data to create an in silico model of the organism, revealing feedback between the body and nervous system that informs organism function. Work will include creating new models across a variety of platforms (including MuJoCo and Python), and also leading junior colleagues to integrate novel software components to existing infrastructure. This role will contribute to ideating new research questions and integrating projects and team members to conduct novel research.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce novel computational models of biological systems (e.g. MuJoCo, MJX, Blender, aerodynamic modeling approaches) 30%
• Apply machine learning and data science expertise (e.g. Python, optimization strategies, RL) 30%
• Research question design and literature review, with focus on Drosophila biomechanics and neuroscience 10%
• Manuscript writing and figure preparation 10%
• Code review, integration and documentation in collaboration with multiple team members 10%
• Collaborating with diverse team members to make design decisions supporting stakeholder needs 5%
• Mentorship and supporting lab meeting organization 5%

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or similar field
• Four years of experience in lab/research experience in neuroscience and/or biomechanics
• Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Additional Qualifications

• Extensive background in Python and software best practices for scientific research, including version control
• Skill in using AI agents to expedite software design
• Experience developing computational models for research questions, including ODE models and MuJoCo
• Experience in machine learning, optimization strategies and scientific computing
• Background in insect anatomy, flight biomechanics and muscle function
• Experience leading first-authored publications and manuscript writing

Preferred Qualifications

• Capacity to design and build physical models of insect mechanical structures using a variety of materials such as textiles, 3D printed components, cardboard and wood
• Robust understanding of the multi-scale systems enabling insect function which will contribute to critical assessment of the insights from varying levels of model abstraction
• Skilled in creating documentation for scientific code that enhances reproducibility and training resources
• Ability to rapidly integrate new literature to drive novel research progress

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$80,244.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$106,428.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

UAW Research

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.