About the Opportunity

JOB SUMMARY

Performs basic or applied research of a limited scope, primarily using existing theories and methods. Individuals should have the ability and desire to innovate when these are insufficient.  Assists the supervisor in the interpretation and publication of results and grants. Maintains the laboratory research team and may exercise functional supervision over supporting research staff. Primary responsibility is ensuring that the research is complete.

Laboratory for the Scientific Study of Dance seeks 1-2 Postdoctoral Research Associate(s) to join an interdisciplinary cadre of researchers affiliated with the Center for Cognitive and Brain Health at Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Toward better understanding the relationship between dance exposures and health outcomes, the ideal candidates have express interest in designing, testing, and evaluating methods for measuring human activity.

About Laboratory for the Scientific Study of Dance

Laboratory for the Scientific Study of Dance (LAB:SYNC) focuses on the analysis of simple and complex models of dance behavior in relation to health outcomes across the lifespan. Directed by Dr. Aston K. McCullough, the lab analyzes dance behavior and related physiological signals within single- and multi-person movement paradigms through the synchronized use of sensors—infrared cameras, wearable sensors, portable indirect calorimetry systems, EKG monitors, and others. Dually, the lab implements rigorous qualitative frameworks to better understand the experiences of those who participate in dance and the perceived benefits of dance on wellness. Laboratory for the Scientific Study of Dance became an appointed Research Lab for the National Endowment for the Arts in 2021.

Broadly, the Postdoctoral Research Associate(s) will primarily be engaged in (1) developing, evaluating and disseminating computer vision-, wearable sensor-, and questionnaire-based methods and algorithms for quantifying dance exposures, (2) assessing the relationship between dance exposures and multiple markers of physical and mental health across the lifespan.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, attention to details, as well as training in research methodology and quantitative data analysis are essential to the successful candidate.

• Experience in writing proposals and project management experience are pluses. 

• Ability to communicate and coordinate with multiple senior researchers from different fields. 

• Holds a PhD in Kinesiology, Neuroscience, Public Health, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited college or university

• Two years of progressively responsible supervisory experience

• Excellent communication skills in English

• Proven ability to work independently within a research lab

Preferred:

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with wearable sensors for physical activity analyses

• Demonstrated ability to perform computational statistics, with proficiency in MATLAB or R

• Experience conducting qualitative analyses, including the use of software (e.g., NVivo)

• Interest in research product commercialization and real-world applications encouraged

• Experience conducting qualitative movement analyses or using a codified direct observation system (especially Laban-based methods)

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff.  Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. 

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other  characteristic protected by applicable law.

To learn more about Northeastern University’s commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity .