Postdoctoral Research Scholar Position in Neuroimaging and Behavior Genetics
Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego

The Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego is pleased to invite applications for a postdoctoral research scholar position in neuroimaging and behavior genetics under the direction of Drs. William Kremen (Psychiatry) and Anders Dale (Radiology and Neuroscience). The position focuses on training in the application of sophisticated neuroimaging methods (structural MRI, DTI, fMRI, and ASL) and associated studies that will be applied to the NIH/NIA-funded Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA). VETSA is a unique longitudinal study of middle-aged male twins that focuses on understanding cognitive and brain aging. Over 500 twins have undergone neuroimaging and extensive neurocognitive assessment, personality and psychosocial measures, a medical history interview, in-lab physical health measures, and hormonal assays. Genome-wide genotyping of all participants is currently underway. Wave 3 of the project, which was recently funded, will acquire new longitudinal and neuroimaging data.

Applications from many disciplines may be considered, and the position is open to qualified international applicants. Requirements for the position are: 1) completion of relevant Ph.D. research activities within the past five years; 2) advanced neuroimaging and programming skills, 3) statistical knowledge, 4) evidence of writing skills, and 5) an interest in imaging genetics research. Experience with multilevel data analysis and/or genetics is desirable. The postdoctoral candidate will be encouraged to develop his or her own research projects that fit within the overall scope of the VETSA project. The position will entail immersion in MR image analysis and opportunities to learn about twin modeling. Experience with FreeSurfer and/or other neuroimaging software, R, and MATLAB is strongly preferred.

This advertisement is for a 2-year appointment beginning immediately. Salary will be consistent with the NIH/NRSA levels in accordance with the University of California, San Diego for Postdoctoral trainees. Compensation includes UCSD benefits, including health insurance and vacation time. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, the UCSD Department of Psychiatry seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of our strong commitment to the twin goals of achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. We are thus interested in candidates who are committed to the highest standards of scholarship and professional activities, and to the development of a climate that supports equality and diversity.

To apply, please send a copy of your CV, a brief statement of research interests and goals, and any selected reprints to the email addresses below. Letters of reference will be required before final approval of hiring. Informal inquiries concerning this position are encouraged. Please e-mail Dr. Anders Dale (amdale@ucsd.edu) and Dr. William Kremen (wkremen@ucsd.edu) for more details.