Research Scientist, Natural Language Processing

Why UT Southwestern Neurology Department?

We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated full-time Machine Learning Research Scientist to join our innovative team in the Departments of Neurology and Bioinformatics. This role entails developing and applying machine learning and NLP techniques to analyze extensive audio datasets and transcribed text, aiming to identify predictive markers of dementia progression. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in our groundbreaking research into dementia, working closely under the close mentorship of several faculty, including Prof. Ihab Hajjar, MD, an authority in dementia, and Prof. Albert Montillo, PhD, a renowned machine learning expert.

· Access to Large Multiyear Datasets

o You will have access to one of the most extensive multiyear datasets available in the field, providing a rich foundation for impactful research.

· High-Performance Computing Resources

o Leverage one of the largest high-performance compute clusters, facilitating advanced computational experiments and model training at an unprecedented scale.

· Advanced Machine Learning Development for audio analysis

o Design and implement algorithms to extract features from audio recordings that indicate dementia.

o Utilize cutting-edge machine learning techniques to analyze large-scale audio data for pattern recognition and feature extraction.

· Natural Language Processing (NLP) on Transcribed Text

o Employ NLP methods on transcribed speech to identify linguistic markers related to dementia progression.

o Develop models to correlate changes in speech patterns, vocabulary, and syntax with dementia stages.

· Predictive Modeling for Dementia Progression

o Design, train, and validate machine learning models using large datasets.

o Ensure models are robust, scalable, and accurately predict dementia progression scores.

· Collaboration and Research

o Work under the mentorship of Prof. Hajjar and Prof. Montillo, contributing to and leading interdisciplinary research initiatives.

o Collaborate with a team of experts in a dynamic, innovative research environment.

Laboratory Expectations

· Proficiency in NLP, with experience in text analysis, language modeling, and sentiment analysis. Experience with one or more modern NLP frameworks and tools (e.g., Transformers library, NLTK, SpaCy, BERT, AllenNLP, Gensim), is a strong plus.

· Expertise in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java, and familiarity with machine learning libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).

· Experience with data preprocessing, feature extraction, and model validation techniques.

· Experience in biomedical data analysis or working on healthcare-related machine learning projects.

· Familiarity with audio processing libraries (e.g., LibROSA, AudioKit, Kaldi, PyAudio, SpeechRecognition, Praat, Wav2Vec).

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

· PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Statistics, or a related field with a focus on machine learning.

· Strong background in machine learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning, and deep learning.

· Experience in biomedical data analysis or working on healthcare-related machine learning projects.

· Strong statistical analysis skills and experience working with large, complex datasets.

· Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

· Knowledge of high-performance computing technologies (Linux) and batch scheduling and/or cloud computing for big data experiments (SLURM, Ray, Hadoop, Spark).

· Demonstrated ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and strong communication skills for conveying complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

· Publications in relevant scientific journals and a track record of successful research projects.

Experience and Education

· Ph.D. degree with major coursework in field of assignment and five (5) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least two (2) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. or

· Master's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and seven (7) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least three (3) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. or

· Bachelor's degree with major coursework in field of assignment and nine (9) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least four (4) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent.

Job Duties

· Plans, organizes, coordinates, directs, and personally participates in assigned scientific or medical research projects. Selects or assists in selection of key research personnel. Determines specific goals or objectives to be attained and assigns and reviews work of subordinates. Plans experimental protocols.

· Reviews and analyzes resulting research data. Revises techniques or approaches to work problems as indicated necessary by research data.

· Compiles, writes, and submits research results to supervisor. Prepares or assists in preparation of research papers, reports, and abstracts for publication as one of co-authors.

· Designs, develops, or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.

· Plans and supervises training of technicians and other laboratory personnel with respect to proper laboratory techniques, use of laboratory equipment, and safety procedures.

· May confer with industrial, governmental, or other groups concerning progress or results of research project.

· Performs other duties as assigned.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit

UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

Schedule: Full-time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: