USC USA Careers – Project Assistant

The USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute and Laboratory of NeuroImaging (INI, www.ini.usc.edu) are world leaders in the development of advanced computational and scientific approaches for the comprehensive mapping of brain structure and function. INI’s unique multidisciplinary environment and cutting edge resources allow for integration of clinical, psychological and genotypic information with neuroimaging phenotypes for research questions in neurology, psychiatry and developmental neurobiology. The Imaging Genetics Center ( http://igc.ini.usc.edu ) in Marina del Rey, California is a part of the Institute for Neuroimaging and Informatics at USC.

The Imaging Genetics Center is looking for a talented full-time project assistant. Duties will focus on analyzing existing brain images to investigate Alzheimer’s disease risk. Position requirements include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field and good knowledge of Excel and google docs. A successful applicant will be detail-oriented, motivated, well-organized, careful and reliable, able to meet deadlines, and able to work both collaboratively and independently. The applicant should also have strong oral and written communication skills. Experience with MRI and/or PET analysis, and a working knowledge of FSL and FreeSurfer are a plus. Some affinity for computer programming is also desirable.

Major duties include quality control and data analysis of various brain imaging modalities (which may include structural MRI, white matter hyperintensity assessment, diffusion tensor images, and PET images), and data management and organization. Although this is not primarily a computer programming position, some basic computer programming (in mainly in bash, and possibly in R, MATLAB, or Python) will also be needed from time to time. The project assistant hired will become familiar with relevant brain anatomy and scientific papers and will learn basic coding and how to process brain imaging data using major available and in-house neuroimaging analysis software. This position would be great for candidates who would like to gain training and experience before applying to a PhD program. A two-year commitment is strongly preferred.

The job is currently hybrid – with Monday and Friday virtual and Tuesday through Thursday in person in our Marina del Rey offices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Experience performing MRI and/or PET analyses
• Exposure to basic computer programming skills
• Strong communication skills.
• Willingness to make a two-year commitment.
• An interest in Alzheimer’s disease research.

The hourly rate range for this position is $26.72 – $27.50. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

To apply or to gain more information, please submit your CV and a cover letter describing your research interests and what you are looking for in a job.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent Minimum Experience: 1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Knowledge of data collection procedures and some experience with proposal preparation and production of technical documents