Job Summary

NOTE:  This position is term-limited for two (2) years.

The Ye laboratory at the Life Sciences Institute is looking for a research computer specialist with a background in computer science or computer engineering to join our research team.  The Ye lab has developed an innovative software tool called LabGym, which automates the analysis and quantification of animal behaviors, improving the efficiency and reproducibility of behavioral research. It has gained popularity among researchers across multiple disciplines, positioning itself as a potential standard for behavioral analysis in diverse scientific settings. The specialist will provide user support and training, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to ongoing software development informed by user feedback and new research demands. The individual will report directly to Dr. Ye and will work a hybrid work schedule consisting of 3-4 days onsite and 1-2 days remote.

Mission Statement

The Life Sciences Institute explores biological processes, structures, and functions at the finest scale to create impact on a global scale. 

For more information on the Ye laboratory: https://www.lsi.umich.edu/science/our-labs/ye-lab 

Responsibilities*

• Provide user support and training for LabGym. This includes assisting users in customizing and fine-tuning LabGym settings for specific experimental needs, troubleshooting technical challenges with users to resolve software issues in LabGym, and providing training of LabGym. 
• Contribute to ongoing development of LabGym based on user feedback and evolving research requirements. 
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, data analysis, and publication of research findings that involve LabGym. 
• Participate in behavioral experiments that involve LabGym in the Ye lab, and present updates of LabGym-related work in lab meetings and conferences. 
• Perform some lab management tasks, including software maintenance, version control, data management, and data storage solututions that are related to LabGym in the Ye Lab.

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related field
• Two (2) years of relevant experience in software development, IT support, or a related technical role
• Proficient in programming, particularly Python
• Excellent communication skills, particularly in interacting effectively with researchers or interdisciplinary teams

Desired Qualifications*

• Master's or PhD degree (completed or expected soon) in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Experience in machine learning and/or artificial intelligence
• Experience with computer vision techniques and applications
• Training or professional experience in animal behavior, cognitive science, or neuroscience
• Prior experience providing technical user support and/or conducting software training

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

Benefits at the University of Michigan: 

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Maternity and Parental Leave

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.