Research Fellow

Research Fellow II – Using Biomechanics and AI for Improved Glaucoma Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Management – Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI)

Job description: We are looking for two bright, dynamic, and highly motivated individuals to perform research in translational biomechanics with applications to glaucoma and other ophthalmic disorders. For more information about our Laboratory, please visit: https://www.ophthalmic.engineering

The proposed study aims to predict vision loss progression from glaucoma – a blinding ocular disorder for which mechanisms are far from being understood. Glaucoma is characterized by cell loss within the optic nerve head (ONH) at the back of the eye. Our recent work suggests that cellular death could be the result of a biomechanically deficient ONH. Thus, we hypothesize that in-vivo measurements of ONH biomechanics can be used to predict vision loss progression. To test such a hypothesis, the successful candidates are expected to contribute to a longitudinal study, in which ONH biomechanics and vision performance will be continuously quantified over a period of 5 years in glaucoma patients. The strength of this work lies in the combined use of state-of-the-art AI & Engineering tools, and carefully selected at-risk populations. Specifically, the successful candidates will use, improve, and develop a series of algorithms and models to assess ONH biomechanics in vivo and to predict structural and functional damage in glaucoma. Such algorithms will be applied to 3D images of the eye (such as those captured with OCT, OCTA, MRI, and Ultrasound). Finite element models (incorporating Growth & Remodeling) will be developed for making predictions about connective tissue damage and axonal loss. AI algorithms (e.g., geometric deep learning) will be used to assess the structural and biomechanical signature of glaucoma (and of all sub-types). We will study how such signatures could help us predict the patients that are most at risks of fast vision loss progression. These algorithms will have wide applicability to other optic neuropathies and myopia. In addition, the candidates will have access to the biggest biomechanical data-set available worldwide for the posterior part of the eye (n=1,000). Note that this project is also part of a large multidisciplinary grant (S$25M) that is currently funded by NMRC to make a significant impact in the field of glaucoma.

Qualification: Excellent programming skills and strong knowledge of recent deep learning techniques are required. The candidates are also expected to have a strong foundation in continuum mechanics. Knowledge of the Finite Element Method, Virtual Fields Method, and optical coherence tomography is considered a plus. No background in ophthalmology is required. Candidates with PhDs in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or other related disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Earliest Starting Date: February 2023.

Duration: 2 years

Salary: SGD $8,000 per month (excluding housing allowance and bonuses). Higher salaries can be offered depending on the provided skill set.

To apply, please email a detailed CV and the names of two references by clicking “Apply”