UK: Research Fellow in Computer Simulation of Ultrasound Guided Procedures
Research Fellow in ComputerSimulation of Ultrasound Guided Procedures
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School of Computing Closing Date: 31-08-2005 Further details: A post is available for a fixed term of two years to work on an EPSRC funded project entitled "Computer Simulation of Ultrasound Guided Procedures", recently awarded to Dr Derek Magee in collaboration with Dr David Kessel at St James' University Hospital, Leeds. The aim of this project is to develop an augmented reality system for the simulation of ultrasound guided interventional radiology procedures, and to evaluate the benefits of such a system within the context of training in interventional radiology. You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team consisting of computer scientists, clinicians and psychologists.
You must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills including written. The ability to deal with a large software project written in the C++ language is essential. Experience and understanding 2D/3D computer graphics techniques, OpenGL, Finite Element Modeling (or similar), Statistical shape modeling/Medical image analysis are desirable. It is unlikely that a candidate would have experience in all areas, but willingness and ability to learn new techniques is essential. Information about the School of Computing can be obtained from http://www.comp.leeds.ac.uk/ Research IA (£19,460 - £25,699 p.a.) The University is introducing a new reward framework which will facilitate the recruitment, retention and motivation of world class staff. Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Derek Magee, email drm@comp.leeds.ac.uk, tel +44 113 343 6819 Application packs are available from Irene Rudling, tel 0113 343 5480, email i.rudling@leeds.ac.uk Job ref 310542 Closing date 31 August 2005 Background The aim of this project is to develop and evaluate the role of an augmented reality simulator for training in ultrasound guided interventional radiology procedures. The proposed research is based on an existing simulator prototype developed by Dr Magee and Dr Kessel. Interventional radiology is a form of minimally invasive therapy with an important role in the treatment of many conditions including cancer and vascular disease. All interventional radiology procedures begin with precise placement of a needle in a target organ using ultrasound and/or X-rays to guide positioning. Training in Interventional Radiology traditionally follows an apprenticeship model involving observation of procedures, followed by supervised practice on patients. Currently there is little scope for the trainee to acquire the requisite skills in a controlled and staged fashion (hence the need for simulators). Interventional radiologists are in short supply; the Government is establishing 3 Radiology Academies (one in Leeds) to train increasing numbers of doctors in radiology. The Leeds academy will provide an ideal test bed for the product of this research. Job summary To extend and evaluate the realism and usability of an existing simulator. This presents a number of research challenges including; Increasing the realism of computer generated images, modeling physical deformation due to manual pressure (and possibly incorporating force feedback), and developing methods of modeling the variable internal geometry of human anatomy. This would involve investigation and development in a number of areas including numerical modeling (Finite Elements etc.) and statistical modeling. The successful candidate would work within a team consisting of Dr Magee and Dr Kessel, and Dr Ratnalingam (radiologist undertaking research in the clinical evaluation of interventional radiology simulators). There would also be input from members of the School of Psychology. Another position relating to a similar project is likely to be advertised shortly, and it is envisaged there will be considerable collaboration with this project. Person Specification Qualifications · A PhD in a relevant subject, or equivalent experience. Skills and Experience You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team consisting of computer scientists, clinicians and psychologists. Applicants must have good written and oral communication skills. The ability to deal with a large software project written in the C++ language is essential. Experience and understanding 2D/3D computer graphics techniques, OpenGL, Finite Element Modeling (or similar), Statistical shape modeling / Medical image analysis are desirable. It is unlikely that a candidate would have experience in all areas, but willingness and ability to learn new techniques is essential. The School of Computing The School of Computing, part of the Faculty of Engineering, was awarded a grade 5 in the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise. This job lies across several research areas in which the school has an international reputation. The job would be based within the Computer Vision research group (http://www.comp.leeds.ac.uk/vision). However, collaboration with researchers in the Scientific Computing and Visualization research group http://www.comp.leeds.ac.uk/research/scv/ is expected. How to apply: Applications should include the following:- · A completed application form · Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form . Please return the Form in a separate envelope marked 'EOs Monitoring'. Completed applications should be returned to Dr Derek Magee, School of Computing, University of Leeds, LS2 9JT, email drm@comp.leeds.ac.uk quoting job ref 312001 not later than 31 August 2005. If you are selected for interview you can expect to hear from the University not later than 4 weeks after the closing date. If you are not selected for interview the University will not contact you again. A Criminal Records Disclosure is not required for this position. Disabled Applicants The post is located in the School of Computing, which is fully accessible. Disabled applicants wishing to review access to the building are invited to contact the department direct. Additional information may be sought from the Team Co-ordinator in Disability Services, email disability@leeds.ac.uk or tel 0113 343 3927 Disabled applicants are not obliged to inform employers of their disability but will still be covered by the Disability Discrimination Act once their disability becomes known. Data Protection The information you provide in your application will be used to consider your suitability for the post for which you have applied. If your application is not successful the information will be disposed of confidentially within 8 months. If your application is successful and you are appointed, your information and future data will be processed in accordance with the University's Data Protection Code of Practice. A copy of this code can be obtained from either the University's Human Resources Department or by visiting http://www.leeds.ac.uk/hr/policy/index.htm Health and Safety Responsibilities You are required to adhere and comply to the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work Act, related Regulations and in accordance to the University's Policy on Health and Safety which can be accessed via http://www.leeds.ac.uk/safety/usp/uspindex.htm In addition you are also required to cooperate with regard to the implementation of Health and Safety arrangements and should not interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interest of Health, Safety and Welfare at Work. |
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