Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Lifespan Motor & Visual Development in Neurodivergence)

JOB OPENING ID: 276369

MODES OF WORK
Onsite

REGULAR/TEMPORARY: Regular

ORGANIZATIONAL GROUP: School Kinesiology

DEPARTMENT: School of Kinesiology

How to Apply

Applicants should submit materials via the University of Michigan applicant management system. Applications should include:

1. a letter of interest,
2. a current curriculum vitae,
3. a writing sample, and
4. contact information for a minimum of three references.

Materials should be packaged as a single bookmarked PDF .

Questions about the position should be directed to:
Haylie Miller, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Movement Science
Director, Motor & Visual Development Lab
School of Kinesiology
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
[email protected]
Job Summary

The Motor & Visual Development Lab (Principal Investigator: Haylie L. Miller, Ph.D.) in the School of Kinesiology is currently seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Fellow to engage in research related to lifespan development of motor and visual skills in children and adults with and without autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, experienced, inclusive, and interested in pursuing a career in academic research investigating the relation between underlying mechanisms of motor and visual development and functional outcomes.

Position Description:

We are seeking a detail-oriented, motivated early-career researcher interested in learning to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret data from multiple systems including mobile eye tracking, motion capture, and force plate posturography as part of Dr. Miller's program of work on lifespan motor and visual development in neurodivergence. The ideal candidate will contribute heavily to analysis of existing data and dissemination of results through publication in peer-reviewed journals, especially those focused on autism, biomechanics, and development. The selected candidate will work with a team of undergraduate, graduate, and staff researchers in the School of Kinesiology, as well as with partners at collaborating institutions and community organizations. This position is based in Ann Arbor, MI, and requires on-site presence.
Responsibilities*

The majority of this position is devoted to analysis of existing and new data and dissemination of results through publication in peer-reviewed journals. Responsibilities include (approximate % time):

• Analyzing eye-tracking, motion capture, force plate posturography, and clinical assessment data , including data collected as part of previously-completed studies and new data from ongoing studies (40%);
• Collaborating with MVD Lab team members and affiliates to produce manuscripts and other work products for dissemination (40%);
• Contributing to development of grant proposals (10%);
• Supporting MVD Lab students through co-supervision and peer mentorship (5%);
• Working with ITS specialists, biostatisticians, research staff/students to ensure data quality/security (5%).

Required Qualifications*

• Doctoral degree in Kinesiology, Psychology, Computer Science, Biomechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A high degree of proficiency using R, Python, and/or Matlab to process and analyze time-series data.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and time-management strategies.
• Strong scientific communication skills as evidenced by scholarly work products (e.g., peer-reviewed publications).
• The ability to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment by engaging with others (including but not limited to research participants, staff, students, collaborators, and community partners) in a manner that aligns with the MVD Lab's anti-ableist, anti-racist, anti-sexist culture of inclusion, acceptance, and respect for diverse perspectives and identities.
• Proven success with contributing to a positive workplace culture, and ability to consistently demonstrate our school's Core Values .
• Ability to remain stationary at a computer for up to 2 hours to collect, process, or review data.

Desired Qualifications*

• Experience using multiple specialized tools for data collection, management, and analysis (e.g., REDCap, Qualisys QTM, Delsys EMGworks, PupilLabs Pupil Capture, Theia, OpenPose), with willingness and ability to quickly and independently learn others.
• Experience using version control technology such as GitHub.
• Familiarity with data security regulations relevant to human subjects research.
• Ability to move multiple pieces of laboratory equipment up to 50 lbs in and out of vehicles and across paved and unpaved flat or graded surfaces and/or multiple flights of indoor or outdoor steps for distances up to 0.5 mi, and to set up laboratory equipment (e.g. tripods, cameras, force plates) without another team member present.
• Ability to position themselves in a way that enables accurate, efficient application of sensors and other equipment on participants, entire bodies, and to support participants as needed during standing postural control tasks to ensure safety.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Maternity and parental leave
• University commitment to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information

The position is available immediately and is term-limited, funded for 12 months; the initial appointment may be extended depending on performance and availability of research funds.

The MVD Lab is committed to fostering inclusive, accessible environments for staff and trainees to develop and use their unique skills. We welcome all applicants from any background or identity group. We value ingenuity, respect for others, attention to detail, and commitment to lifelong learning above existing technical skills. We are happy to provide accommodations for any potential barriers you may identify or encounter in the application process.
Background Screening

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 are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline

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.
U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.