SCI-HMHI Postdoc Position
Scientific Computing and Imaging (SCI) Institute
University of Utah

The University of Utah is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to lead collaborative efforts among researchers at the University of California San Diego, the Huntsman Mental Health Institute and the Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute in developing and applying methods in predictive and causal modeling of complex biomedical and social processes.

This work will involve the design of innovative techniques to conduct analysis and modeling in novel, high dimension and/or multimodal data in mental health disorders and high-profile social problems such as suicide and drug overdose deaths. The translation of cutting-edge data science results into usable scientific, policy-related or clinical knowledge is a particular focus.

The successful applicant should have significant research experience in at least two of the following areas: (a) deep learning; (b) causal search/discovery; and © dynamical systems.

Preference will be given to applicants with prior experience applying these methods on scientific problems. The successful applicant must have a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related field at the start of the appointment.

Applicants from historically marginalized or underserved backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will be based in Salt Lake City with biannual travel to La Jolla, CA. The largest city in the Intermountain West, Salt Lake is renowned for its 11 world class ski resorts on the Wasatch Mountain Range and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities including five incredible National Parks.

Along with easy commuting and mass transit, historic neighborhoods and a vibrant performing arts scene, these features have attracted many new residents and contributed to the ethnic and cultural diversity that characterizes modern Salt Lake City.

Non-Technical Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills are mandatory. A willingness to collaborate in a highly diverse, multi-disciplinary environment is also essential.

Start date: Immediate.

The initial appointment will be for a three-year period, with the possibility of an extension based upon performance and availability of funding.

The Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah was founded in 2019 with an inaugural $150 million gift from the Huntsman family and a further $350 million pledged in fundraising efforts. This groundbreaking initiative established a national institute for mental health research and treatment aimed at replicating the success of the Huntsman Cancer Institute, which has grown into an internationally-renowned center for cancer research. HMHI’s overall vision is to advance mental health research through innovative collaborations, cutting edge facilities and public-private partnerships.

The Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute at the University of Utah was founded in 2000 to solve important problems for humankind by performing cutting-edge collaborative scientific computing, image analysis and visualization research. Over two decades, SCI has established itself as an internationally-recognized leader in data science and has graduated over 400 students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to faculty positions with universities internationally and become innovators at companies such as nVIDIA, Google, Intel and Medtronic.

The Halicioglu Data Science Institute at the University of California, San Diego was founded in 2018 as a unique, collaborative, and multidisciplinary academic unit that works to lay the groundwork for the scientific foundations of the emerging discipline of data science, including development of new methods and infrastructure. HDSI has also quickly emerged as a world leader in educating students, faculty, and industry partners in cutting-edge methods to use data science to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems.

The University of Utah, an AA/EO employer, encourages applications from women and minorities, and provides reasonable accommodation to the known disabilities of applicants and employees.

Qualifications
Ph.D. Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or related field at the start of the appointment.