Postdoctoral Fellow/Research Associate – Lamina Cribrosa Biomechanics: A Diagnostic Biomarker for Glaucoma? – National University of Singapore

Job description: We are looking for a bright, dynamic, and highly motivated individual to perform research in translational biomechanics with applications to ophthalmology. For more information about our Laboratory, please visit: http://www.bioeng.nus.edu.sg/oeil/.

The proposed study aims to assess the biomechanics of the lamina cribrosa (LC) in vivo. The lamina cribrosa (LC), at the back of the eye, provides mechanical supports to the axons that pass through and transmit visual information to the brain. Because the LC is porous, it is mechanically weak, and is the major site of axonal damage in glaucoma – the most common cause of irreversible blindness. Throughout the day and night, the LC is exposed to three major loads: the intraocular pressure (IOP; pushing the LC posteriorly), the cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP; pushing the LC anteriorly), and during eye movements, by the traction from the optic nerve distorting the LC. We believe that excessive and cumulative deformations of the LC from any of these loads could result in glaucomatous axonal damage. We also believe that the biomechanical behaviour of the LC is different between healthy and glaucoma subjects, and that accurate in vivo measurements of LC biomechanics could help us better diagnose glaucoma.

For this project, the successful candidate will use, improve and develop 3D image processing algorithms to assess the biomechanics of the LC in response to changes in IOP, CSFP and gaze position in a large population of normal and glaucoma patients (imaged under various conditions with 3D optical coherence tomography). The candidate will also assess how information about LC biomechanics could be used to better understand and diagnose glaucoma. This will be done using custom artificial intelligence (deep learning) algorithms in collaboration with the OCTAGON team (http://www.bioeng.nus.edu.sg/OEIL/OCTAGON.html). Finally, the candidate will also be expected to provide assistance while patients are being imaged.   

This is a project in collaboration with the Singapore Eye Research Institute (top 5 eye institute worldwide).

Qualification: Excellent programming skills (in C++ and Matlab/Python) and knowledge of 3D image tracking techniques (e.g. digital volume correlation) are required. The candidate is also expected to have a strong foundation in nonlinear continuum mechanics and finite element modeling. Knowledge of the Virtual Fields Method, code parallelization, optical coherence tomography, and deep learning is considered a plus. Hands-on experience in mechanical or biomechanical testing is also considered a plus. No background in ophthalmology is required. Candidates with PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or other related disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Earliest Starting Date: July 2018.

Duration: 3 years.  

To apply, please email a detailed CV and the names of two references to:

Dr. Michael JA Girard

Ophthalmic Engineering & Innovation Laboratory

Department of Biomedical Engineering

National University of Singapore

Email: jobs@invivobiomechanics.com

Homepage: http://www.bioeng.nus.edu.sg/oeil/