Research Software Engineer

GENERAL SUMMARY/OVERVIEW:

The Charles P. Lin Lab is a leading biomedical optics group at the MGH Wellman Center for Photomedicine, focused on the development of advanced optical techniques (confocal and multiphoton microscopy, in vivo flow cytometry, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, etc.) for studying the production of blood cells in the bone marrow (the hematopoietic system). Once formed, the blood cells are released into the circulation to deliver oxygen (red blood cells) and carry out immune functions (white blood cells) throughout the body.

A new translational effort aims to image the movement of white blood cells in blood vessels, providing a new way of assessing inflammation in human patients noninvasively. To accelerate this project, the Software Engineer will develop an automated machine learning and image processing pipeline for detecting and tracking white blood cells from image data. This project aims to address major diagnostic limitations in low-resource settings. As part of our team, you will work with a multidisciplinary group of experts in optics, engineers, biologists, and physicians.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Develop machine vision models to identify and track white blood cells from image data.

* Develop automated image processing pipelines, including image registration and quantification of white blood cell movement.

* Optimize models to improve processing speed and enhance cell detection efficiency.

* Document processes, methodologies, and findings, ensuring reproducibility of results.

* Work with cross-functional professionals (postdocs, engineers, research assistants).

* Participate on other projects, workgroups, learning opportunities, etc. as assigned.

* May participate in and execute research methodology, analyses and publication preparation leading to co-authorship on a research publication.

* Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

* BS in Computer Engineering with a focus on Computer Vision, Machine Vision & Learning or related fields.

* Master's or Ph.D. preferred

* Proficiency in Python or related languages (e.g., C++, Java, etc.).

* Experience with Machine Learning.

* Experience with automation of image processing pipelines.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience with libraries like OpenCV, TensorFlow, or PyTorch to create image analysis algorithms.

* Familiarity with cloud computing platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is a plus.

• Experience working with heavy data sets.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge in and the ability to apply the latest software engineering languages and computing techniques.
• Some understanding of human biology.
• Able to develop tools that are applicable, robust and meet short- and long-term needs to support assigned projects.
• Able to perform and incorporate quality work within technical specifications.
• Can work with attention to detail, following protocols and timelines.
• Able to self-manage to ensure own learning, productivity and development. Able to identify and refer matters of question and concern.
• Good communication skills and a collaborative mindset. Ability to effectively document work-related information including processes and outcomes.
• * Applicable use of necessary computer software and development tools.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Normal office conditions with extended periods of time in computer work and keyboarding as well as sitting. Work location is within a research setting on the hospital campus. Hours may be needed outside of standard workweek.

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.