Project Overview: We are looking for a talented developer to help us integrate an advanced Natural Language Processing (NLP) chat functionality into our existing mobile application. The project aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of using this technology to provide education, behavioral health coaching, and psychological and emotional support to individuals with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc). This will be a multiphase, iterative development project where the NLP model (UM-GPT-4) will be continuously refined based on real-time feedback from patients and health coaches. Your role will be critical in ensuring that the technology is effectively integrated and optimized to meet the needs of our users.

Key Responsibilities:

1. NLP Model Integration: Implement and integrate the UM-GPT-4 NLP model into the existing mobile app infrastructure, ensuring seamless operation and user interaction.

2. Iterative Development: Participate in a dynamic, iterative development process where the model is refined using text prompts.

3. API Development: Develop and maintain APIs that allow for effective communication between the mobile app and the NLP model. Ensure that the integration supports real-time processing and is scalable.

4. Troubleshooting & Optimization: Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve any technical issues that occur during development. Continuously optimize the NLP model's performance and its integration within the app.

5. Documentation & Training: Provide detailed documentation of the integration process and offer guidance to other team members on the technical aspects of the NLP model.

Qualifications:

1. Strong NLP Expertise: Demonstrated experience and strong understanding of NLP techniques and models, with a particular focus on integrating NLP models into applications. Prior experience with chat frameworks, NLP, and/or mobile app development is essential. While not required, experience in managing a project from start to finish, rather than contributing to a single component, is highly desirable.

2. Relevant Coursework or Experience: Completion of relevant coursework (e.g., EECS 487, UMSI 561) or equivalent experience in NLP, machine learning, or AI development.

3. Programming Proficiency: Proficient in Python, with additional experience in JavaScript considered a plus. Familiarity with machine learning frameworks and tools (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is beneficial. Experience in using React Native and TypeScript is preferred.

4. API Development Experience: Experience in developing, refining, and integrating APIs into mobile applications, particularly for real-time data processing.

5. Mobile App Development Knowledge: General understanding of mobile app development processes and best practices. Experience working within development cycles and collaborating with app development teams.

6. Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.

7. Communication & Collaboration: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and provide clear documentation.

Compensation: Competitive hourly rate: $15-20/hour

Time Commitment: This is negotiable, depending on availability. We are open to a part-time commitment (20 hours/week for 5 weeks) or a full-time commitment (40 hours/week for 3 weeks)

How to Apply: Interested candidates should email their resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience, technical skills, and interest in the project, to niralish@med.umich.edu. Please include examples of previous work related to NLP integration, if available.