Research Professional 1 - Clinical Deep Brain Stimulation

Position Summary:
The Neuromodulation Research Center (NMRC) focuses on understanding the pathophysiology of movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease and dystonia as well as the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of deep brain stimulation (DBS). Much of the work focuses on the ultimate translation of basic laboratory research discoveries into clinical treatment options for affected patients in order to reduce symptoms, minimize side effects and enhance function and quality of life. The laboratory forms key collaborations with other experts in neurology as well as other disciplines such as neurosurgery, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and radiology in addition to the medical industry to expedite and enhance new discoveries and their meaningful translation from "bench to bedside."

Our lab incorporates our dedication to multidisciplinary research. The Clinical Research Professional will assist with multiple ongoing NIH funded projects or other projects, as directed, with competing and distinct timelines and deliverables. A successful candidate to this position will develop and continuously improve code, software, and techniques for 3D DBS lead localization and placement for clinical subjects. Using in-house modalities, the candidate will design and implement additional targeting parameters including anatomical distances between ROI and assessments of intra-operative metrics and feedback to improve future targeting. The envisioned final modality will move the current iteration towards a standardized atlas in order to assist with pre-operative targeting, lead placement validation, to improve patient specific outcomes for DBS surgeries. Candidates may reference Pobiel et al (2026). A novel methodology for
localizing pallidal deep brain stimulation leads for context.

Work Schedule: In-person, M-F, 8:30am - 5:00pm

Job Duties:
75% Methodology Development:

• Under direction of senior researchers, improve techniques already in use at the NMRC for the localization of DBS electrode placement in 3D space, specifically brain regions targeted for therapeutic stimulation.
• Codify code and program a GUI for standard, regular use by senior researchers.
• Implement industry standard terminology and regularize references of the above.
• Measure and validate subject outcomes with standard clinical assessments, e.g. UPDRS.

15% Feedback, User Testing, and Change Management:

• Engage stakeholders to normalize terminology and approach for the above; iterate designs and approach based on feedback and real-world testing.
• Document processes for replication.

10% Presentation and Publication:

• Assist with data and figure publication preparation.
• Present research at conferences, symposia, and colloquia or for publication in scientific journals.
  
  

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in biomedical engineering, neuroscience, or similar health science-related degree and/or work experience to equal at least four years
• Demonstrate an understanding of the rudiments of Deep Brain Stimulation, particularly as it relates to movement disorders: its neural effects, application, and efficacy in treating the symptoms of movement disorders.
• Mastery of C, C++, C# code language with specific regard to their application in the Unity Engine for the localization, parcellation, and delineation of 3D objects.
• Understanding of medical and engineering terminology in order to create a best-practice, industry standard product/methodology for localizing DBS leads.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience registering MRI derived images and neuronal data for research purposes.
• Understanding of metrics that inform optimization of neurostimulation paradigms.

To learn more about the Department of Neurology, please visit https://med.umn.edu/neurology.

Pay Range: $23.15/hr - $27.17/hr; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented 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 employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.