Search

Post Doctoral Associate

University of Pittsburgh
locationPittsburgh, PA, USA
PublishedPublished: 4/22/2026
Full Time

Post Doctoral Associate
SHRS-Rehab Sci & Tech - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26001959)

Summary:

SHRS Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology is offering a Post Doc Associate program titled Career Advancement & Training for Assistive Technology Practice, Research & Policy (CAT-PReP). The objective of CAT-PReP is to increase the number of rigorously trained rehabilitation clinicians to become competitive and scientifically productive researchers specializing in AT provision and policy for community living and participation. The CAT-PReP further aims to bridge the shortage of trained researchers in AT.

The Post Doc Associate will be advised by Dr. Mark Schmeler from the Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology. The primary role of the Post Doc Associate will be to conduct research to support individuals with disabilities in navigating complex healthcare systems, assistive technology options, and funding resources.

Responsibilities:

o Engage with a rehabilitation engineer who oversees and evaluates computer access/electronic devices service to develop a standardized procedure for OT involvement well as an outcomes management system to investigate the impact of these interventions.

o Lead investigation of the use of ambient listening (AI) during wheelchair evaluations to streamline documentation.

o Research implementation strategies for follow-up service to people who are provided wheeled mobility and seating solutions.

o Shadow clinicians when performing wheelchair evaluations and assist with documentation scribing.

o Collaborate closely with an interdisciplinary team to develop, assess, and refine AI functionalities that align with user needs.

o Develop and implement clinical quality improvement investigations to improve service delivery, inform policy, and move towards increased financial viability of AT clinics.

o Engage with clinical and community partners to gather information, develop knowledge bases, collect user feedback, and integrate all inputs into project development.

o Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at relevant scientific and industry conferences.

o Participate in grant writing activities and proposals as they arise.

Qualifications:

  • Have a terminal doctorate (i.e., OTD, DPT, CScD) or PhD in relevant disciplines, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, audiology, public health, and rehabilitation engineering at the time of application.
  • Show evidence of expertise in the disciplines.
  • Not currently be or have ever been a Principal Investigator on a research grant.
  • Show genuine interest in AT research, clinical service, and policy.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative research/clinical team.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven track record of scientific publications and/or presentations.
  • Knowledge of assistive technology, healthcare systems, and disability advocacy is highly valued.
  • Experience in research and project management

Salary & Benefits

The CAT-PReP position will be appointed as a Post Doc Associate at the University of Pittsburgh. The program will provide 100% salary support plus some support for travel and supplies. Post Doc Associate will receive a stipend of $62,232/year, including health insurance. The 2nd year of appointment is pending based on performance and funding availability.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.


Assignment Category: Full-time regular
Campus: Pittsburgh
Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
Required Attachments: Curriculum Vitae
Optional Attachments: Cover Letter

Assignment Category Full-time regular



PI283996979