Research Engineer 1

Department Overview

The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care. The school is in a dynamic growth phase with a state-of-the-art facility.

Further information about OHSU, the School of Dentistry, and its south waterfront home can be found at: OHSU School of Dentistry 

Function/Duties of Position

The Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, Division of Orthodontics is seeking a Research Engineer 1 with bachelor's degree (4 yr) in Engineering and 2 years of relevant experience to begin October 12, 2026. The candidate will perform research in line with the goals of the principal investigator, Jeff Nickel, D.M.D., M.Sc., Ph.D., for the NIH grant R01 DE035101 (PI: Nickel) titled: Variables affecting mandibular orthognathic surgery stability (VAMOSS).

The successful candidate will have experience in numerical and finite element modeling, with an emphasis on 3D reconstruction of craniofacial morphologies, and developing analytical methods. Working knowledge of head and neck anatomy and human physiology are required. Experience working with software platforms Amira, MatLab, and Comsol are also required. The appointed candidate will be responsible for maintaining software and hardware in the OHSU Biomechanics Lab, including upgrades to computing capabilities. It is expected that the appointed candidate will (1) participate in data analysis and stewardship, (2) play an active role in manuscript and presentation preparations, (3) perform the research required by the supervisor to a high standard, in accordance with institutional and federal regulations and ethical standards, (4) train DMD and graduate students, lab staff, and collaborators in laboratory protocols as needed, and (5) work in a collegial and cooperative manner with the supervisor and other co-workers. Career development training opportunities and continuing education are highly encouraged by the PI and are plentiful at OHSU. 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field (Engineering)
• Experience in numerical and finite element modeling, with an emphasis on 3D reconstruction of craniofacial morphologies, and developing analytical methods
• Working knowledge of head and neck anatomy and human
• Experience working with software platforms Amira, MatLab
• This is primarily a research position, but some lab management responsibilities are also involved
• Enthusiasm and ability to learn new skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Well organized and ability to multi-task to deliver on multiple targets simultaneously
• Work well independently and as a member of a highly collaborative team

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degreeein relevant field (Engineering) AND 2 years relevant experience

Why apply to OHSU?

We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact [email protected]