MR Physicist
Job description
About the role
MR physicists translate experimental goals into protocols that probe brain activity using ultrasound and MRI. Experiments target and measure brain modulation effects with high resolution and depth using ultrasound and MRI.
Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.
Key facts
What you'll do
Sensitivity and precision for ultrasound neuromodulation readouts improve through novel sequence design and reconstruction. Novel sequences and reconstruction methods target and measure brain modulation effects with high resolution and depth using ultrasound and MRI.
Scanner capabilities on a 3 Tesla Siemens Cima.X define the environment for application build, validation, and deployment. Data analysis applications move from test on Siemens scanners to clinical use on Siemens platforms.
Ownership from early concept through prototyping and into clinical trials turns methods into evidence. Software and methods advance from idea to proof by operating in real trial settings.
Development aligns with clinical operator needs through close collaboration with MR physicists, an RF coil engineer, and software, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
Requirements
Design and analysis for MRI sequences and reconstruction methods rely on engineering and physics first principles. Candidates connect theory to practice when building and testing pulse sequences.
An exceptional track record for novel MRI sequences depends on experience with major vendor APIs and associated reconstruction algorithms. Technical contributions advance when API usage and reconstruction methods mature.
Expertise in non-Cartesian pulse sequences guides choices for image reconstruction and sampling strategies. Mastery of parallel imaging, compressed sensing, and machine learning methods supports image quality.
Electrical or Biomedical Engineering degrees establish a foundation for signal processing and inverse problem fundamentals. Academic and professional training strengthen analytical rigor and methodological care.
A history of exceptional technical contribution is demonstrated through research and clinical projects. High integrity and strong professional judgement shape decisions in study design and data interpretation.
Practical notes
Day-to-day development cycles depend on integration with MR physicists, RF hardware, and software teams.
Typical interview steps
Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.
Good to know
The role applies physics and engineering principles to medical imaging and neuromodulation. Core tools include MRI systems, pulse sequence design, and image reconstruction methods. Collaboration with hardware, software, and clinical teams is central to the work.
Career growth
Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.