Research Scientist (Preclinical MRI Physicist)

Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 35

Salary Grade R2: $65,050 - $76,550, commensurate with experience

Please note, this is a grant-funded position.

About Western

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

About Us

The Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping (CFMM) at Western’s Robarts Research Institute is Canada’s National Ultra-High Field MRI Platform. The CFMM is an internationally renowned neuroimaging research centre that houses Canada’s only collection of high-field (3T human) and ultra-high field (7T human and 9.4T and 15.2T animal) MR systems, with leading expertise in MRI technical development and application. The Centre’s primary focus is to establish the anatomical, metabolic and functional characteristics of normal brain development and healthy aging across the lifespan; as well as establishing the brain basis of developmental, neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative deficits in clinical populations.

The CFMM is a truly unique national resource for state-of-the-art evaluation of not only normal subjects and research patient populations, but also in animal models and in vitro preparations using a variety of advanced MRI and MRS techniques. The core’s principal mandate is to support peer-reviewed grant funded research and has done so for well over 100 principal investigators at Western and abroad.

Responsibilities

The Research Scientist (Preclinical MRI Physicist) applies their expertise and knowledge to provide support related to research involving the 9.4T and 15.2T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners in the Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping (CFMM). The role facilitates research on the ultra-high field MRI scanners by providing support to internal and external stakeholders regarding data, experimental design, related equipment, as well as best approaches for project development, implementation, and evaluation. The role operates the preclinical 9.4T and 15.2T MRI scanners, applies new MRI methods, provides intellectual input into the design of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, and carries out research independently. The role provides technical support, performs quality assurance, troubleshoots issues, analyzes, interprets, and integrates research and experimental results and prepares desired research outcomes.

Qualifications

Education:

• Masters in Medical Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering or related discipline with a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) focused thesis
• Working towards, or completion of, PhD in a related field is preferred

Experience:

• 2 years working experience with ultra-high field MRI in a related academic research environment with an independently developed research portfolio
• Experience with Bruker Paravision360 and Avance Console
• Strong publication record including demonstration of principal authorship is preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated expertise of scientific/research principles in the area of high-field MR with demonstrated proficiency in MRI physics and systems including proven ability to troubleshoot and assess problems with hardware, software and image artifacts
• In-depth knowledge of the regulations and guidelines governing research in an academic environment
• Ability and skills to manage projects from conception to completion within tightly prescribed timelines
• In-depth knowledge of techniques for updating, managing and working with imaging databases
• In-depth knowledge of methods for research design, protocol development, implementation, and analysis
• Ability to collaborate across internal and external boundaries to meet common objectives, improve outcomes and support work beyond one's own unit
• Well-developed communication skills to interact with individuals and audiences inside and outside the University
• Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards, particularly surrounding animal research
• Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
• Attention to detail with an ability to retrieve, analyze and synthesize sizable amounts of data, while ensuring that information is accurate and comprehensive
• Ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments
• Advanced skills in software and other applications used to produce, support and analyze research outcomes
• A desire to grow and advance skills, which is demonstrated by attending and participating in conferences, workshops and other professional developmental opportunities to enhance and disseminate knowledge
• Ability to remain highly motivated, resilient, innovative, and collaborative when faced with challenges
• Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the CFMM’s research schedule and activities
• Ability to provide guidance to assist others in solving complex problems
• Possess a reputation for resourcefulness with a strong sense of accountability and initiative
• Ability to interpret and identify patterns or problems in complex research data, and succinctly evaluate or summarize findings
• Ability to coach members of a research group and support them to be self-directed and responsible for their own development and learning
• Ability to evaluate issues, recognize potential problems and take action to proactively resolve issues
• Ability to adhere to legislated safety requirements and Western safety policies
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
  

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.