Job Vacancy Announcement – Staff Scientist

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Division of Intramural Research Programs (IRP)
Scientific and Statistical Computing Core (SSCC)
 

Program Overview

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), a major research component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is seeking exceptional candidates for a Staff Scientist position in the Division of Intramural Research Programs (IRP), Scientific and Statistical Computing Core (SSCC). The primary function of the SSCC is to support MRI-related neuroimaging research at NIMH and NIH, including structural, functional, and diffusion-based imaging. We also facilitate multimodal studies, such as with EEG, ECoG, CT, PET, tDCS/TMS and more. Our overarching goal is to help brain researchers stay close to their data. One way we perform these duties is by developing the open source, publicly available software distribution, AFNI (Analysis of Functional NeuroImages), which was started in 1994 and continues to be widely used worldwide. A large part of our work is teaching, training, and mentoring many students, trainees and other researchers across NIMH and NIH, as well as globally. We actively develop new analysis and visualization methods, typically implementing these within AFNI. Many of these are created to directly address research needs and experimental designs of collaborators, and others are based on our own experience to improve analysis techniques within the field. These research, development and educational interests include: experiment and study design; data visualization and quality control; processing methods and quantitative analysis; utilizing appropriate statistical modeling and validation; promoting understandable and reproducible science; and improving both scientific approaches and results reporting across the field.

Position Overview

The Staff Scientist’s primary responsibilities include developing new methods for analyzing and visualizing FMRI data and working as part of a development team of the open source, publicly software package, AFNI. This individual will be encouraged to work on techniques that are applicable to both high- and ultralow-field MRI (as well as standard 1.5-3T field strengths), and to integrations with structural MRI, other MRI modalities and multimodal projects. This role will involve both independent and collaborative aspects, with a focus on problem solving. The Staff Scientist will also support, teach, train and collaborate with members of the NIMH, NIH and extramural community on using new and existing methods effectively. This individual will also attend and present at national and international workshops/courses/meetings, and assist in writing manuscripts.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in neuroscience, psychology, computer science, or a related discipline, and also have strong programming skills in C/C++ and Python. In particular, we are seeking someone with specific skills, knowledge, and experience with highfield (7T) MRI, BOLD and VASO FMRI, layer FMRI, diffusion MRI and structural MRI. Proficiency with the LayNii neuroimaging software package is desired, as is experience or strong interest in the AFNI toolbox. Strong interpersonal skills and a track record with teaching and training are also required.

Benefits

A full civil service package of benefits may be available. https://hr.nih.gov/benefits 

How to Apply

The position is open to US citizen, Legal Permanent Resident or non-US citizen who are eligible for a valid work authorization.”. Applications from women, persons from underrepresented groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The position is subject to a background check. Interested candidates must submit a current curriculum vitae, a statement of research background and interest in the position, and two letters of recommendation to Dr. Paul Taylor via e-mail at NIMHIRPSearch@nih.gov and please cc paul.taylor@nih.gov. When submitting, please put the email subject line as “Staff Scientist, SSCC-2024”.

Applications will be received until the position is filled.

HHS and NIH are equal opportunity employers

DHHS, NIH, NIMH are equal opportunity employers. The NIH/NIMH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs and encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.