Neuroscience Postdoctoral Fellow
Huntington Medical Research Institutes is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through patient-focused scientific research. Our brand-new state of the art laboratory anchors the biomedical corridor on South Fair Oaks in Pasadena. Our scientists' research focuses on the connection between the brain and heart, developing diagnostic tools to help treat common diseases of these vital organs that affect every family.
We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to participate in studies of the role of cognitive functioning, how these processes help detect cognitively healthy individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology (CSF amyloid/tau levels). Our work has linked cognitive challenge processing (time-frequency analysis) to risk of dementia and we are both developing and evaluating non-invasive biomarkers to help identify those with AD pathologies. This basic and clinical research program uses state-of-the art tools including clinical, behavioral, EEG, MRI, biochemical, and behavioral studies. We are seeking someone to participate in these foundation and NIH-funded investigations who is familiar with cognitive neuroscience, neurophysiology methodology (particularly EEG), and data analysis, and is interested in developing clinical research questions and optimizing analysis streams tailored to the study aims and populations. New approaches and ideas are encouraged, as are independent projects that dovetail with current studies. The position requires working closely with the PI, lab mates, and collaborators to design studies, acquire data, interpret findings, write papers, and develop, improve and apply data analytic techniques. Training in clinical research and in the acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of neuroimaging/neurophysiology data will be provided.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
- PhD (or MD) in neuroscience, psychology, engineering or a related discipline and a strong research background are required. Ideal candidates would have extensive experience in data analysis, a background in computational neuroscience and/or signal processing and be proficient in Matlab/Python. The following are also beneficial: experience with EEG data analysis/methodology, background in cognitive neuroscience, experimental/neuropsychology and aging and AD; interest/experience with clinical populations; and experience in task design and analysis for cognitive experiments.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Good judgment and decision-making capability
- Observes laboratory safety and security procedures
- Uses laboratory equipment and materials properly
- Must be a reliable and conscientious self-starter, with excellent attention to detail and ability to coordinate multiple projects and deadlines
- Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues, building respect, consensus, and trust across reporting lines