Postdoc in Statistical Signal Processing, Network Science, and Deep Learning Applied to Brain Imaging Data at the University of Maryland, College Park

Institute & Lab: The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD or UMCP), was founded in 1856 and is located in the state of Maryland, USA. The university's faculty includes 2 Nobel Prize winners, 4 Pulitzer Prize winners, 58 members of the National Academy of Sciences, and numerous Fulbright Scholars. The A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland is ranked among the top 18 engineering schools in the nation, renowned for its innovative education and research programs.

Imaging- and Neuro-computations for Precision Informatics Research (INSPIRE) Lab, led by Dr. Nan Xu, is launching at the A. James Clark School of Engineering. The lab is anchored at the intersection of data science and brain science. We are dedicated to developing advanced computational models and data science approaches to uncover brain function, neurological disorders, and other biological processes. By leveraging multimodal functional neuroimaging data—including fMRI-BOLD, LFP, optical imaging, and MEG—from animal models, healthy individuals, and patients, we decode complex brain activities and diseases. This integrative approach aims to provide groundbreaking insights that advance both fundamental understanding and translational applications in brain science, informatics, and beyond. For more information, visit https://www.inspirelab.site.

Located in A. James Clark Hall, INSPIRE Lab is adjacent to neuroimaging core facilities and is equiping with high-performance computing power. UMD's proximity to government research facilities (e.g., NIH, NSF, DOD, FDA) and world-leading hospitals offers numerous collaboration opportunities. The campus is conveniently located near Washington D.C. and Baltimore, providing diverse living and recreational options. 

Role Description: This is a Postdoctoral Associate position at the A. James Clark School of Engineering, funded by the NIH Brain Initiative, specializing in computational modeling. The role focuses on developing statistical, machine learning, and deep learning models, information-theoretic approaches, and other computational tools for neuroimaging data. The successful applicant will lead these efforts while receiving mentorship in research, scientific communication, conference presentations, manuscript writing, and contributing to grant writing. Additionally, the postdoctoral associate will be responsible for training junior trainees and assisting in the maintenance of the lab's computing systems and environment.

The PI of INSPIRE Lab is committed to providing personalized guidance and support tailored to individual goals, while actively promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI). Compensation is based on NIH postdoctoral guidelines and includes a competitive benefits and retirement package offered by UMD. The position offers a renewable, annual contract with the expectation of completing 2-3 years of postdoctoral training. The preferred start date is January 2025, though this is negotiable.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Electrical & Computer Engineering, Physics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Publication(s) with deep learning and statistical learning models.
• Proficient in information theory, graphical theory (network science), and/or control theory
• Strong coding skills in Python, MATLAB; Linux OS.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in quantitative expertise, comfortable with formula derivations.
• Strong communication and writing skills.

How to Apply: Please assemble the following: 1) a letter of interest/cover letter, 2) CV, and 3) a list of three references. The cover letter should describe your previous experience, interest and expectations for the position, and preferred start date. Email the application as a single PDF file to Dr. Nan Xu (nanxu@umd.edu) with “Postdoc Application - modeling” in the subject line.