To apply for this job please upload (combined into ONE PDF) a CV/resume, cover letter, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to this position. All inquiries about the position can be sent to Dr. Umberger (umberger@umich.edu).

Dr. Brian Umberger in the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology is seeking a full-time Research Specialist to join his team.  The Locomotion Research Lab conducts research on a NIH-sponsored project on the impact of age-related changes in the musculoskeletal system on gait performance and energy cost. The position is ideally suited for someone who is detail-oriented, self-motivated with expertise in biomechanical computer modeling and simulation.

Essential Functions are noted with an EF

• Develop, run, and analyze musculoskeletal computer simulations that reproduce experimental gait data collected in young and older adults by our experimental collaborators at the University of Massachusetts (30% effort) EF
• Develop, run, and analyze predictive musculoskeletal computer simulations for testing hypotheses about the factors underlying gait changes in older adults (30% effort) EF
• Coordinate with the experimental collaborators at the University of Massachusetts to ensure tight integration of gait simulations with experimental data (10% effort) EF
• Ensure systematic management and archiving of computer code and simulation results, and troubleshoot computer programming issues as needed (10%)
• Oversight of graduate and undergraduate students as well as other research personnel in collaboration with the lab principal investigators (10%)
• Co-author journal publications and conference abstracts with the principal investigator (10% effort) EF
• As time permits, the applicant may pursue individual research interests that align with the mission of the Locomotion Research Laboratory

• Master's degree in Kinesiology, Engineering, or related discipline (PhD preferred) 
• Excellent organizational skills with the capacity to manage and coordinate several study-related tasks concurrently
• Strong interpersonal skills to enable successful interactions with colleagues and collaborators (e.g., faculty, undergraduate students, and graduate students)
• Experience programming with MATLAB and C++
• At least 4 years of related experience including at least 3 years of experience with the OpenSim musculoskeletal modeling software and at least 1 year of experience using the OpenSim API and the Moco optimal control framework
• Proven success with contributing to a positive workplace culture, and ability to consistently demonstrate our school's core values.
   

Physical abilities needed for this position require applicants to be able to: 

• Remain stationary at a computer for the majority of an 8 hours shift to develop, run, and analyze computer simulations. 
• Ability to move computers or other lab equipment up to 25 lbs.

• Five or more years of related project management experience in a research/lab setting
• Supervisory and financial management experience preferred.
• Experience managing multiple large databases 

This is a term-limited appointment, funded from November 2024 through April 2025; the initial appointment may be extended depending on the availability of research funds and successful performance. The salary range for this position is $54,000 - $56,000. You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor understanding and transparency throughout the recruiting process. This position will be primarily on-site with potential for hybrid work arrangements upon discussion.

The University of Michigan School of Kinesiology and Dr. Umberger are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level. We firmly believe that these principles form the critical foundation for the establishment of an open, productive, creative, and collaborative scientific environment.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

About University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.

Connections working at University of Michigan - Ann Arbor