Research Associate

Position Summary: The Epilepsy Institute in the Department of Neurology is hiring a Research Associate (Research Professional 5) to support clinical research protocols. Join a high-impact, interdisciplinary program at the intersection of epilepsy, neuromodulation, and sleep biology. We seek a motivated, ambitious research associate to lead cutting-edge research on how seizures disrupt sleep architecture and drive fragmentation, and to develop novel neuromodulation strategies to restore stable sleep and reduce seizure burden.

Duties/Responsibilities:
1. Data Management, Review, & Analysis (70%)

• Advanced Neural Signal Processing: Apply quantitative analysis, signal processing, and machine learning methods to high-dimensional EEG, neuromodulation, and sleep data streams
  to quantify seizure disruptions, sleep architecture, and fragmentation.
• Dynamical Modeling & System Identification: Develop mathematical models and perform system identification to characterize neural dynamics, closed-loop network behavior, and state
  transitions during sleep and seizure events.
• Real-Time Control & Optimization: Design, implement, and refine real-time control algorithms and optimization frameworks for adaptive neuromodulation strategies aimed at stabilizing sleep and mitigating seizure burden.
• Pipeline Development & Data Curation: Build, automate, and maintain robust computational pipelines for signal filtering, feature extraction, artifact removal, quality assurance, and secure data archiving across clinical research protocols.

2. Data Collection & Protocol Execution (20%)

• Bio-Signal Acquisition Oversight: Coordinate and execute data collection protocols for complex bio-signals and neural recordings from patients participating in clinical research studies and trial protocols.
• System Integration & Troubleshooting: Oversee hardware and software integration for real-time neuromodulation testing environments, ensuring seamless signal streaming, system stability, and protocol fidelity during active studies.
• Clinical & Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Partner closely with clinical research teams, neurologists, and technologists to align experimental data collection setups with ongoing patient
  care workflows.

3. Grant/Manuscript Writing & Dissemination (10%)

• Scientific Publication & Dissemination: Lead and contribute to peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, technical reports, and conference abstracts to broadly disseminate findings on
  sleep restoration and neuromodulation in epilepsy.
• Grant Development Support: Collaborate with principal investigators to draft methodological sections, preliminary data visualizations, and analytical budgeting for future NIH and foundation grant applications (e.g., expanding on NIH UH3 initiatives).
• Research Presentation: Deliver scientific updates and technical findings at local institute meetings, national scientific assemblies, and interdisciplinary symposia.
  

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (PhD) in neuroscience, engineering, physics, or related field with one or more years of research training.
• Expertise in signal processing, machine learning, or computational neuroscience.
• Experience in the implementation of real-time control systems and optimization for real world applications.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Strong record of presenting research results through publications and conference abstracts.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the collection and analysis of bio-signals and neural data.
• Practical experience in system identification and mathematical modeling of dynamical systems.

The Epilepsy Institute is a first-of-its-kind institute created to change the trajectory of epilepsy itself. By uniting precision care, personalized therapies, and preventive neuroscience within a single bold mission, the Institute will transform how epilepsy is treated today and redefine what is possible tomorrow. It will serve as a global home for discovery, innovation, and education - where clinical insight fuels scientific breakthroughs, and breakthroughs rapidly return to patients.

Pay Range: $60,948 annually - $79,391 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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