Research Assistant Professor

The Department of Neurosurgery is seeking a research‑track Assistant Professor to establish and lead an independent, NIH‑funded research program focused on advanced neuroimaging and computational modeling in collaboration with Pediatric Neurosurgery and the Adult Cerebrovascular Division. This faculty member will develop a translational imaging research program that integrates quantitative MRI, artificial intelligence, and longitudinal clinical data to improve surgical planning, outcome prediction, and disease characterization across pediatric and adult cerebrovascular populations. The position will be fully research‑focused (100% protected effort), with structured integration across clinical and imaging divisions. Core Responsibilities Independent Research Program Development Establish and maintain an independent NIH‑funded research program in neuroimaging and computational modeling. Submit competitive R21, R01, and related NIH mechanisms within the first 1–2 years. Develop scalable, hypothesis‑driven research aligned with pediatric and adult cerebrovascular priorities. Collaborative Grant Leadership Co‑develop and co‑lead NIH proposals with neurosurgical faculty. Support departmental grant competitiveness through imaging expertise and quantitative modeling. Participate in a structured departmental research core model. Integration with UCAIR / Radiology Collaborate with UCAIR and Neuroradiology to optimize translational imaging protocols. Leverage shared infrastructure for imaging analysis and AI development. Develop and collaborate with existing researchers within the Imaging & Neurosciences Center (INC) and establish novel imaging protocols to inform future clinical initiatives and grant submissions. Contribute to cross‑departmental imaging innovation initiatives. Research Infrastructure & Core Development Develop standardized imaging and analysis pipelines usable by multiple neurosurgical investigators. Serve as a departmental resource for imaging‑based clinical studies. Help build a durable research core supporting both pediatric and adult faculty. Mentorship & Academic Contribution Mentor trainees (PhD, postdoctoral, residents) in imaging and translational neuroscience. Contribute to departmental research strategy and academic development. Build interdisciplinary collaborations across campus. Position Requirements Full research focus (100% protected effort) with structured integration across clinical and imaging divisions. Experience in advanced neuroimaging, quantitative MRI, artificial intelligence, and longitudinal clinical data analysis. Work Environment Nearly continuously: Office and laboratory environment. Physical Requirements Nearly continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking. Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead. Background Check This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen. EEO/Non-Discrimination Information The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities. Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy‑related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number, can be located at #J-18808-Ljbffr