Dear El Alliance Participant,

We have a position suitable for a budding computational person who is interested in acquiring experience in the research setting.  The position is for a programmer in our Analytics and Modeling Group which has developed mathematical models of the effect of light/schedules on human performance.  Although a programming position, nearly all of our colleagues who had similar positions went on to graduate school and participated in scientific analysis.  The goal of the project is to tailor simulation software developed in house to meet the needs of NASA's schedule designers.  The job description is listed below.  Although we are searching for a full time person, we would consider experienced applicants for a Co-op/intern/temporary position.

Dennis Dean
http://sleep.med.harvard.edu/people/trainees/259/Dennis+A+Dean
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Computational Research Associate
Analytics and Modeling Unit
Division of Sleep Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital
A Division of Harvard Medical School

Current version of software: http://sleep.med.harvard.edu/research/faculty-research/tools/CPSS (Interface written by a recent graduate)

Description: The Biomathematical Programmer Analyst II for the Analytic and Modeling Unit (AMU) of the Division of Sleep Medicine (DSM) will be responsible for developing applications and web-based software that uses time series analysis routines, statistical programming, and bio-mathematical models (differential equations).  Specific application examples include writing data analysis software, updating mathematical model software, time series analysis routines, and graphical display programs under the Windows operating systems.  A large effort will be directed towards developing cross platform applications including web based applications.  Example of web based application software includes a schedule analysis program that uses bio-mathematical models to predict human performance.  Applicants are expected to have a working knowledge of database interfaces, especially MySql.  A typical database driven application would be to compare simulation output to experimental data stored in the Division of Sleep Medicine's centralized database. The applicant must have excellent programming abilities, including testing and debugging skills, time management skills, the ability to prioritize work to meet deadlines, and to work efficiently on several tasks and projects at once.  These programming responsibilities also include developing programs that access DSM databases for use in AMU and DSM software.

The successful applicant must have good written and oral communication skills.  The BPA II is expected to organize meetings to clarify, review, and finalize program specifications.  All applications/programs will be documented according to DSM policy.  It is necessary for the analyst to interact successfully with a wide spectrum of researchers, from undergraduates to experienced investigators.  Given a user request, the candidate will work with other DSM members to identify the source of problems or difficulties and decide on the best approach to solving the issue.  Additionally, the candidate must be comfortable working with mathematical and statistical models of biological functions.

Software must be tailored to meet specific needs of different populations (e.g., researchers, industry, military, NASA).  This candidate will act as a general computer information source by training and assisting users on any customized software that he/she will develop.

If interested, contact:

Dennis Dean
Phone 617-525-6709
Fax 617-264-6875

Email ddean@rics.bwh.harvard.edu