Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/41350
Job Number SE243624
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Physics
Position Headcount 1
Position Title Student Research Assistant (Prof. John Howell)
Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027
Term or Semester All Academic Year
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $16.90
Pay Range Information Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange
Approved Supervisor John Howell
Supervisor Email johhowell@chapman.edu
Scheduling Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date 10/19/2026
Projected End Date 05/23/2027
Average number of hours per week Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary Undergraduate student research assistant will assist with a project that focuses on developing a low-cost, non-invasive optical imaging system which measures subtle changes in facial blood flow associated with concussions and autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Using a standard digital camera, we will employ remote photoplethysmography (rPPG) to detect small variations in facial skin color caused by changes in blood volume and circulation.
Responsibilities
The undergraduate student research assistant will help develop Python-based image processing and signal analysis algorithms to track blood flow across different facial regions, extract physiological signals such as heart rate and low-frequency vascular oscillations, and examine how these signals respond to controlled physiological challenges.
Techniques including facial landmark tracking, spatial mapping, Fourier analysis, and singular value decomposition will be used to identify patterns of vascular activity that may distinguish healthy individuals from patients recovering from concussions. The ultimate goal is to explore whether inexpensive, camera-based measurements can provide objective biomarkers to support concussion assessment and recovery monitoring.
Required Qualifications Student should have an understanding of programming, have a strong background in mathematics especially linear algebra.
Desired Qualifications Be in pursuit of a mathematics, scientific or engineering degree at Chapman.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS
Pre-screening Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
• Please describe your experience and qualifications to conduct the research described in the posting.
(Open Ended Question)
• Please list your availability including what times you are available to work and the maximum number of hours per week you are available to work. (Open Ended Question)
• Are you working at another job on or off campus?
• Do you have a Federal Work Study Award?