112700 - Twin Study MRI Research Associate

UCSD Department of Psychiatry is one of the most innovative and productive academic departments in the country, offering challenging career opportunities in the diverse areas of advanced educational programs, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art clinical services. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under supervision, the incumbent will assist in the acquisition and analysis of MRI scans for large-scale, multi-site clinical neuroimaging studies involving twins and longitudinal assessments, in the UCSD Departments of Psychiatry, Radiology, and Neurosciences and additional national sites. The incumbent will be responsible for data acquisition at MRI facilities, data transfer, database entry and maintenance, and MRI image review and processing. The primary responsibilities will be 1) operation of the MRI scanner to acquire data including careful communications and interactions with valuable twin participants; and 2) multi-modal MRI image processing. Image processing includes assessment of image quality, detailed image analysis involving the review of raw and analyzed image volumes, the application of Linux-based software to image volumes, and manual interaction with image volumes as required. Types of MRI data will include structural, diffusion-weighted, functional, and perfusion images each relying on different software and requiring computational skills such as shell and MatLab scripting. Secondary responsibilities include assistance in maintaining database entry of sensitive data related to research participants and the image analysis results; assistance in data integrity evaluation and correction in database applications. The incumbent will perform information searches on the internet and through library resources.

• Theoretical knowledge of Psychology, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science or a related field.

• Theoretical knowledge of neuroanatomy/neuroanatomy background.

• Proven ability to locate neuroanatomic structures for image analysis.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and conscientiousness.

• Strong computer skills including demonstrated expertise with a variety of computer operating systems is essential.

• Experience with Matlab.

• Experience in providing instructions and using anxiety reduction and discomfort reduction techniques to research participants while in scanning environment for retention of participants in longitudinal study.

• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and accurately.

• Experience acquiring, reviewing, and processing magnetic resonance brain images.
• Experience with structural, functional, diffusion, and perfusion brain MRI research.
• Expertise with FreeSurfer, fiber tract mapping with DTI studio, and longitudinal application.
• Experience and Familiarity with Linux and shell scripting.
• Knowledge of the scientific and research method and experience with human subject research.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Must be flexible and willing to work some evenings and weekends.
• Willing to work in several locations (e.g., Main Campus, La Jolla Corporate Ctr, UCSD MRI facilities) including some driving to scanner locations.
• Must have access to reliable transportation.
• Must meet criteria for eligibility to participate in MRI scanning on high field strength magnets, as determined by the MR facility safety and operator training requirements.

Job offer is contingent on successful engagement in the UC COVID-19 Vaccination program (fully vaccinated with documented proof or approved exception/deferral).

UC San Diego Health is the only academic health system in the San Diego region, providing leading-edge care in patient care, biomedical research, education, and community service. Our facilities include two university hospitals, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center, and several outpatient clinics. UC San Diego Medical Center in Hillcrest is a designated Level I Trauma Center and has the only Burn Center in the county. We invite you to join our dynamic team!

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UC San Diego Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://www-hr.ucsd.edu/saa/nondiscr.html

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