Research Scientist (Blast Injury Research)

CFD Research Corporation•Ruston, LA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

CFD Research is seeking a Research Scientist (Blast Injury Biomechanics) to join our Biotechnology and Life Sciences team. This role will involve establishing and executing experimental research on blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI) using preclinical large animal models. The successful candidate will design and conduct controlled blast overpressure exposure studies, operate associated instrumentation, and analyze multiscale datasets. These data will support the validation of computational injury models and the development of injury criteria and protective strategies. This role offers the opportunity to build a new experimental capability from the ground up, working at the intersection of experimental biomechanics, data analysis, and computational modeling in a collaborative, fast-paced environment focused on innovation and technical excellence.

Requirements

PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Neuroscience, or a closely related field (or MS with equivalent relevant experience)
Demonstrated experience designing and executing experimental injury biomechanics, blast, or impact exposure studies
Hands-on experience with in vivo preclinical research models, including large animal (e.g., swine) models
Working knowledge of animal research regulatory compliance, including IACUC and USDA requirements; familiarity with ACURO review for DoD-funded work
Experience with sensor instrumentation and high-rate data acquisition for dynamic events (e.g., piezoelectric/ICP pressure sensors, accelerometry, high-speed imaging)
Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB for processing, analysis, and visualization of experimental datasets
Strong foundation in experimental design and statistical analysis
Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and a willingness to learn and apply new methods, tools, and scientific domains as project needs evolve
Excellent written and verbal scientific communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams
Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and troubleshoot complex technical challenges

Nice To Haves

Experience with blast overpressure exposure systems, such as shock tubes, blast simulators, or field/live-fire test environments
Experience with blast-induced traumatic brain injury or neurotrauma models, including neuroinflammation, histopathology, or neurobehavioral assessment
Experience supporting test and evaluation of military personal protective equipment
Familiarity with computational modeling and model validation workflows (e.g., finite element or computational fluid dynamics injury models)
Experience applying machine learning to biomedical, image-based, or behavioral datasets
Laboratory proficiency in molecular and histological techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, qPCR, cryosectioning, fluorescence microscopy)
Experience supporting federally funded research programs (DoD, VA, NIH), including technical reporting and proposal development
Familiarity with version control (e.g., Git) and reproducible data analysis workflows

Responsibilities

Design, plan, and execute controlled blast overpressure exposure studies using preclinical large animal (e.g., swine) and other injury models
Specify, integrate, calibrate, and operate instrumentation for characterizing blast environments and biomechanical response, including pressure sensors, accelerometers, strain gauges, high-speed imaging, and high-rate data acquisition systems
Develop, submit, and maintain animal research protocols and ensure compliance with IACUC, USDA, and DoD (ACURO) requirements
Collect, curate, and analyze multiscale datasets spanning blast environment measurements, head and brain biomechanical response, and tissue-level, biochemical, and neurobehavioral outcomes
Apply statistical and machine learning methods to characterize dose-response relationships and support development of injury risk criteria
Partner with computational teams to deliver validation-quality experimental data for blast and injury simulation models
Support test and evaluation of personal protective equipment and blast mitigation strategies
Coordinate with veterinary, histopathology, and laboratory personnel to execute studies and outcome assessments
Contribute to development of laboratory capability, including facility and equipment planning, standard operating procedures, and data management practices
Document methodologies, code, and results; prepare technical reports and deliverables for government sponsors
Contribute to scientific reports, proposals, and peer-reviewed publications