The Thermal Therapy Research Group within the Radiation Oncology Department at the University of California, San Francisco has an immediate opening (starting July 1, 2008) for a postdoctoral appointee. The appointee will conduct research and development on new devices and methods for delivering ultrasound thermal therapy under image guidance.  The main objectives of this research group include development of catheter-based ultrasound heating technology, 3D treatment modeling and planning, methods of MR image based monitoring & control, methods of ultrasound image based monitoring, optimal treatment control, and support of a clinical pilot study using this technology on pelvic malignancies.  Other topics of interest and research include development or characterizations of alternative heating technology, thermal and acoustic targeted drug delivery, and methods of ultrasound therapy monitoring.  The appointee will participate in research projects to develop devices and methods for image-guided thermal therapy with catheter-based ultrasound applicators. These projects may involve some of the following activities: animal experiments; ex vivo tissue studies; working in an MRI environment; theoretical studies; software development; device and test apparatus development and fabrication; and collaboration with other academic or industry groups. This position is supported by NIH grants and Industry research collaborations.    

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in bioengineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or an associated field with strong emphasis on theoretical and experimental development of thermal therapy devices and procedures.  Candidate should have considerable knowledge and experience in laboratory skills and/or numerical analysis regarding acoustic and thermal treatment devices; good skills in oral and written communication in English; demonstrated ability to work independently and work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team; and contribute to an active intellectual environment.  Interested candidates should send a detailed CV, along with a list of publications, and the names and addresses of three references to Chris Diederich, PhD at cdiederich@radonc.ucsf.edu.

UCSF seeks candidates whose expertise, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence.  UCSF is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.  The University undertakes affirmative action to assure equal employment opportunity for underutilized minorities and women, for persons with disabilities, and for covered veterans.  All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including minorities and women.