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Overview
The Sheffield Platform for Imaging Research in Oncology (SPIRO) is a £4M+ Yorkshire Cancer Research funded initiative to establish Sheffield as a leading centre for oncological imaging research. We are seeking an Image Processing Technician at 0.4 FTE (two days per week) to provide computational and technical support for the SPIRO imaging research portfolio. The postholder will curate and process multi-modal imaging data across MRI, PET, and CT modalities, and will run both classical image analysis pipelines and modern AI-based workflows. Tasks will include image segmentation, registration, and synthesis using established tools and deep learning frameworks. The postholder will work within the School of Medicine and Population Health under the supervision of Dr Bilal Tahir, collaborating closely with the SPIRO Image Analysis and AI Scientist and the wider POLARIS imaging research group. The role offers the opportunity to work with unique imaging infrastructure including Yorkshire’s only MRI-PET scanner and the North of England’s only Photon-Counting CT scanner.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Curate, organise, and process multi-modal imaging data (MRI, PET, CT) for SPIRO research studies, ensuring data quality and integrity throughout the processing pipeline.
- Run and maintain classical image analysis pipelines for segmentation, registration, and image synthesis. Troubleshoot pipeline failures and ensure reproducibility of results.
- Deploy and execute modern AI-based analysis pipelines, including deep learning models for image segmentation, synthesis, and classification, under the guidance of the Image Analysis and AI Scientist.
- Perform quality control checks on processed imaging datasets, flagging anomalies and maintaining records of processing outcomes.
- Support data management workflows, including organisation of imaging databases, file format conversion, and integration with research data management systems (e.g. XNAT).
- Assist with the preparation of imaging data for research publications, grant applications, and presentations.
- Contribute to documentation of computational workflows and standard operating procedures for imaging data processing.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
|
Criteria |
Essential or desirable |
Stage(s) assessed at |
|
Degree in Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, Medical Physics, or related discipline (or equivalent experience) |
Essential |
Application |
|
Demonstrable computational and programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, or similar) for data processing and analysis |
Essential |
Application/interview |
|
Experience with image processing or analysis techniques, including segmentation, registration, or synthesis |
Desirable |
Application/interview |
|
Familiarity with AI and machine learning methods, particularly deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow) |
Essential |
Application/interview |
|
Good organisational skills with the ability to manage data systematically and maintain accurate records |
Essential |
Application/interview |
|
Effective communication skills with the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary research team |
Essential |
Interview |
|
Experience with medical imaging data formats (e.g. DICOM, NIfTI) and imaging software tools |
Desirable |
Application/interview |
|
Experience working in a research environment, particularly in medical imaging or a related field |
Desirable |
Application/interview |
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.

