Post-Doc Research Associate

This Postdoctoral Research Associate will lead engineering work in the Bai lab’s translational research program on wearable optical sensing. A central effort is a multispectral pulse oximetry technology that measures blood oxygen saturation accurately across the full range of skin tones. The goal is to advance it from a laboratory prototype toward a clinically validated, manufacturable device. The postdoc will: Design, build, calibrate, and maintain wearable multi-wavelength optical sensors, including the optical front end, embedded electronics, and firmware. Develop and validate signal-processing and machine-learning algorithms that account for skin pigmentation, low perfusion, and motion. Work with UNC clinical collaborators on IRB-approved human-subjects validation studies, including device deployment, data quality control, and statistical analysis. Collaborate with industry partners on design for manufacture, design documentation, and regulatory strategy. Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, and invention disclosures, contribute to grant proposals, and mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers. The position offers direct experience with the full path from academic research to medical device translation.

Hands-on experience designing, building, and characterizing optical or optoelectronic sensing systems (for example photoplethysmography, pulse oximetry, tissue spectroscopy, or wearable sensors). Proficiency in physiological or sensor signal processing and statistical or machine-learning modeling in Python or MATLAB. A record of first-author, peer-reviewed publications in a relevant field. Strong written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaborate with clinicians, engineers, and external partners.

Experience with embedded electronics, firmware, PCB design, or low-power wireless systems. Experience collecting and analyzing data from human-subjects or preclinical studies, including work in clinical settings under IRB and HIPAA requirements. Familiarity with pulse oximeter accuracy testing (ISO 80601-2-61 and FDA guidance) and objective skin-tone measurement. Experience with medical device development under design controls and risk management (ISO 13485, ISO 14971, IEC 60601). Background in tissue or skin optics. Exposure to technology commercialization (for example NSF I-Corps or invention disclosures). Experience mentoring students.