Position Description

The University of Washington Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences (I-LABS) is an interdisciplinary research unit dedicated to discovering the fundamental principles of human learning, with a special emphasis on early learning and brain development. I-LABS is seeking Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct analyses of human MRI brain imaging data. The person in this position will understand the broad strategic objectives of the Speech Research Laboratory at I-LABS, and contribute to the team responsible for creating breakthrough knowledge concerning infant, child and teen brain development.

Responsibilities:

MRI Brain Imaging Data Analyses (75%)

• Develop and implement software processing "pipelines" for analysis of MRI imaging data, including the use of publicly available scientific software packages and development of custom software as needed.
• Test and validate pipelines and methodology.
• Keep detailed documentation of methodology developed.
• Monitor newly acquired MRI data for completeness and archive data in lab storage system.
• Assist with organizing lab data storage structure.
• Assist with study design of new MRI projects.
• Perform basic statistical analyses of data.

Scientific Communications (15%)

• Read scientific literature to stay informed on latest methodologies, models, hypotheses and findings in areas of lab research.

• Provide oral and written interpretation of research results.
• Present research results in report form, within the laboratory and for publications and conferences.
• Participate in writing, submitting and revising manuscripts for publication. Present findings at scientific conferences.
• Interact in a collaborative fashion with other members of the MRI team to coordinate activities and achieve organization goals.

Other (10%)

• Assist with Unix computer management, including configuration of accounts and installation and updating of imaging software packages.
• Attend regular lab meetings and participate in discussion of study progress and findings.
• Provide advice to advance work of junior laboratory staff.

Qualifications

Requirements:

• Ph.D in Psychology, Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, or related field
• Experience conducting experiments using MRI technology with both children and adults, including all phases of analysis and interpretation of findings
• Fluency in Matlab and/or Python
• Prior experience with MR imaging processing and analysis in a scientific setting
• Prior experience with signal processing and/or MR imaging physics.
• Familiarity with multiple academic imaging processing software packages such as FSL, SPM, ANTS, Freesurfer, AFNI
• Fluency in Unix Shell scripting
• Scientific writing skills including writing scientific papers as lead author, grant preparation, delivery of presentations (talks and posters) for reporting of scientific findings to professional audiences

Additional Desired Skills and Experience:

• Advanced software development skills
• Prior experience with Unix system management
• Familiarity with R
• Prior experience with any of the following: magnetic resonance spectroscopy, functional MRI, cortical thickness measurement, diffusion tensor imaging, processing of infant MRI data
• Familiarity with E-Prime and/or Presentation software packages
• Familiarity with MR pulse sequence design

Instructions

Candidates should submit a) cover letter; b) curriculum vitae; and c) statement of research interests. Review of applications will begin May 1st, 2020; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions regarding the search can be direct to Erica Stevens at estevens@uw.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All
qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed,
religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information,
gender identity or expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status.