Physics Research Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY

This role supports the development, integration, and validation of advanced MRI methods across two research workstreams:

• Oscillating Gradient Diffusion (OGSE/OGD) in collaboration with Vanderbilt University, and
• FLORETbased UTE imaging (nonCartesian) in collaboration with Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

The engineer will coordinate program execution while contributing technically to pulse sequence implementation, image reconstruction and software refinement, and data processing within the Philips MRI research environment. The emphasis is on program oversight, technical coordination, and collaborative execution, rather than independent subjectmatter leadership in diffusion MRI or FLORET.

Note: This role focuses on technical engagement and delivery. It does not include clinical trial operations or regulatory ownership.

Core Responsibilities

A) Technical Development - Pulse Sequence (OGSE/OGD)

• Refine and extend existing OGSE pulse sequence code in the Philips research environment.
• Implement additional features, improve robustness, and ensure correct sequence functionality.
• Support deployment and onscanner integration on Philips MRI systems.
• Contribute to related data processing and image reconstruction workflows when required.

B) Image Reconstruction & Software Development (FLORET / NonCartesian)

• Implement and validate nonCartesian MRI reconstruction pipelines (including those supporting FLORET UTE acquisitions).
• Support software deployment and integration of reconstruction tools within Philips research systems.
• Refine reconstruction workflows, add new features, and improve system interfaces and usability.
• Perform data validation and quality checks; evaluate reconstruction stability and artifact behavior.

C) Experimental Collaboration & Validation

• Coordinate experiment planning with Vanderbilt researchers, Cincinnati Children's teams, and clinical MRI staff.
• Support execution of scanner experiments as needed.
• Assist with validation of OGSE and FLORET acquisition outputs through systematic testing and comparative analysis.
• Prepare technical validation summaries/reports and ensure outputs align with program deliverables and milestones.
• Document results, assumptions, and change histories with strong discipline.

Qualifications

Required

• Strong familiarity with vendorspecific MRI pulse sequence programming (preferably Philips research environments).
• Solid foundations in MRI reconstruction, including nonCartesian methods, and software engineering.
• Handson experience with C++ / Python / MATLAB for algorithm and tooling development.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across industry and academic partners; clear written and verbal communication.
• Proven ability to operate under hardware constraints and in structured, sprintbased execution models.

Preferred

• Master's or PhD in MRI Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Medical Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Experience with Philips MRI research environments (e.g., research interfaces, integration workflows).
• Exposure to OGSE/OGD diffusion methods and/or FLORET UTE imaging (deep expertise not required).
• Experience with MRI data processing, QA/QC, and validation workflows.