NEATLabs Research Associate I - Psychiatry
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
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. This project at the Neural Engineering & Translation Labs (NEATLabs) is investigating digital neurocognitive assessments paired with electroencephalography (EEG) and mobile digital interventions in psychiatric populations, particularly depression. The primary goal is to assess behavioral, cognitive and neural difference in humans across the lifespan, as well as advance novel personalized therapeutics that integrate brain stimulation (TMS) and machine learning. The project will help identify and characterize the specific cognitive, behavioral, electrophysiological, and functional brain changes that affect mental health and can be optimized to enhance wellbeing. Under supervision, the Staff Research Associate I will assist in the routine tasks of data collection and maintenance associated with quality data acquisition in both lab and clinic settings within the Department of Psychiatry. Other important tasks include assisting with human subjects recruitment, enrollment and study participation; survey based assessments; standardized interviews; EEG set-up and recording; MRI set-up and recording; brain stimulation set-up and recording; and implementation and monitoring of digital interventions. The incumbent will assist with recruiting through flyers; participant scheduling and progress check-ins under PI supervision; and assist with study data organization and management. The incumbent will also assist with lab management activities, including managing purchasing of lab supplies needed for the research project; managing human subjects compensation; assist the PI with IRB submissions, revisions, and annual continuing reviews; training, orientation, and oversight of junior lab members; and assist with other project and miscellaneous tasks as required.
Qualifications
Theoretical knowledge in neurosciences, biology, physiology, or a related field. MRI Safety Training Certification. Completion of UCSD MRI Safety Lecture and completion of annual on-line safety quiz to maintain certification status. Familiarity with cognitive testing techniques. Excellent interpersonal skills needed in interactions with patients, including appropriate interview techniques, diplomacy and confidentiality. Highly self-motivated and reliable, able to solve problems independently and with initiative. Organizational, scheduling, and record keeping skills. Proven ability to maintain confidentiality in accordance with Human Subjects requirements. Demonstrated experience interacting effectively with co-workers as well as subjects. Proven ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Strong general computer skills, including familiarity with common programs, such as Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, and basic MATLAB. Specific computer experience using Excel, Word, or similar programs. Specific experience in scientific presentations and manuscript writing. Familiarity with EEG and brain stimulation techniques. Ability to assist with organizing and maintaining test records for subjects including survey data, cognitive data and EEG data. Familiarity with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Familiarity with Neuro-navigation i.e., targeting specific brain areas for brain stimulation. Experience with clinical trial procedures such as randomization, blinding etc. Experience recruiting and enrolling subjects interested in NEATLabs studies through partnering clinics, Research Match, and the UCHealth EPIC database. Familiarity with wearable setups and monitoring, including smartwatches like FitBit and Galaxy watches and Oura rings. Experience with managing Human Subjects Compensation and submitting receipts within Concur or similar systems. Experience with submitting, revising, and maintaining IRB protocols. Experience with submitting annual continuing review materials for IRBs. Experience with submitting grant progress reports. Experience providing training, orientation, and oversight of junior lab members.