UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 05/09/19 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Special Selection Applicants: Apply by 05/21/19. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Center for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CFMRI, Center) is a state­ of ­the ­art resource for the San Diego research community that makes possible advanced imaging studies of the function, physiology, and anatomy of animals and humans. The Center houses three cutting ­edge imaging systems:
- Two 3T short bore scanners (GE MR750)
- One 7T system (20 cm bore, Bruker Avance II console)

To assist in research subject preparation for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) studies, a mock magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner is also available. Since its opening in 2002, the CFMRI has supported the research activities of numerous funded (primarily National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), and Department of Defense (DOD) projects from UCSD and other research centers, including The Salk Institute, San Diego State University (SDSU), Sanford Burnham Medical Research Institute, and The Scripps Research Institute. The total annual funding of projects supported by CFMRI is approximately $40M, and the annual recharge budget for the Center has grown to nearly $2 million.

Incumbent directs all aspects of the technical operations related to the MRI systems at the UCSD Center for Functional MRI, a research facility serving over 100 research projects from various departments at UCSD, Salk Institute, Veterans Administration (VA), SDSU and local and international pharmaceutical companies. Using specialized technical knowledge, leads the development and execution of state-of-the-art MRI methods for both human and animal studies such as arterial spin labeling, diffusion tensor imaging and new experimental capabilities such as noninvasive measurement of tissue perfusion, lung imaging and microscopic imaging. Supports and makes innovative contribution to the ongoing research projects performed at the Center.

Collaborates with the Center Director and investigators from Psychiatry, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Radiology, and other departments to perform and support large-scale multi-disciplinary research projects. Responsible for quality assurance, troubleshooting, testing, and safety compliance of the MRI systems including the development and implementation of advanced tests as necessary. Leads the development and implementation of standard operating procedures related to the technical operations of the MRI systems. Coordinates with MRI investigators and MRI system vendors to resolve technical issues in a timely fashion and to initiate resolution for potential future technical problems. Creates and develops specification, selection and acceptance testing for new and/or upgrade of the MRI systems. Oversees installation of new systems, upgrade of existing systems, and the selection, purchasing, and testing of peripheral equipment.

Directs, manages and supervises a technical staff that supports daily scientific operations of the Center. Leads regular meetings to review and resolve relevant technical and administrative issues. Serves as technical advisor/consultant to the MRI research community. Designs and oversees safety training and operator training programs. Manages web-based communication with users/clients. Develops and maintains technical documentation. Responsible for compliance of operations with safety regulations. Under minimal supervision, oversees the activities and staff of a laboratory including the supervision of entry/intermediate level research and/or instructional associates and laboratory support staff. Typically works in small to medium or single facility laboratory. Supervises the development and execution of major or multi-disciplinary research projects or instructional and experiment design.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor's Degree in related area.

• Minimum of three (3+) or more years of experience in technical operations in a laboratory setting.

• Focus of knowledge and skills dependent on area of specialty (laboratory research or instructional/experimental design). Advanced and highly specific knowledge and expertise associated with conducting and reporting on scientific research experiments and findings.

• Advanced knowledge of a limited variety of specialized laboratory equipment. Knowledge and experience performing MRI experiments, including anatomical, functional MRI, diffusion, and arterial spin labeling.

• Demonstrated skill in diagnosing and repairing equipment required for fMRI studies, such as physiological monitoring equipment, projectors, and button boxes.

• Knowledge of data acquisition and analysis techniques. Abilities to process and analyze a wide range of MRI data types, including anatomical images, field maps, fMRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and arterial spin labeling (ASL). Ability to develop and use MATLAB, Python, and shell scripts for imaging processing and analysis workflows.

• Leadership skills associated with planning work assignments, establishing priorities and scheduling instructional space.

• Advanced knowledge of research discipline or instructional design to collaborate effectively with faculty and function as a resource to research and instructional associates.

• Knowledge and Proficiency with neuroimaging software and protocols, including AFNI, FSL, SPM, MATLAB, and BIDS.

• Strong ability to use Linux systems, Mac OS X, Windows, and software source control systems.

• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments and findings.

• Solid interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty and staff. Skill to communicate effectively, diplomatically, and professionally, orally and written. Ability to work with variety of personnel from different laboratories and instruct them in optimal procedures for research related activities.

• Advanced organizational and project management skills, including ability to work independently, establish priorities, complete projects accurately, efficiently, and with a high level of attention to detail.

• Knowledge of necessary lab safety procedures and requirements, as well as chemical disposal guidelines. Knowledge of MRI safety and biosafety techniques and practices. Ability to follow established Safety and Biohazardous Material Guidelines

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate Degree in a quantitative field (such as engineering, physical science, neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, computer science) or related field; and/or equivalent combination of additional education and experience.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Variable schedule and overtime may be required.
• Must be willing to work with biohazardous and hazardous chemicals.
• Must be willing to work near a high magnetic field which may interfere with a cardiac pacemaker. It is preferable that no metallic implants are present in the employee's body.