Assistant Specialist-Fan Lab

University of California; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Davis invites applications for an Assistant Specialist in the Department of Neurology. The role focuses on analyzing MRI data to understand white matter hyperintensities in aging and cognitive impairment, under the guidance of Dr. Audrey Fan.

The position emphasizes data management, pipeline development for MRI biomarkers, and statistical analysis linking WMHs with vascular risk and cognition. Strong coding skills and ability to work independently are essential.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in data analysis and computational modeling related to biological or neurological research.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, and codebase management using GitHub.
• Experience organizing and managing data processing pipelines, especially for large image data processing.
• Familiarity with MRI data analysis is preferred.
• Great communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems with enthusiasm.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive data analysis and biophysical modeling of MRI data to study brain perfusion and metabolism in aging and dementia.
• Apply advanced statistical and computational models using Python, MATLAB, and R.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present results at national and international conferences, workshops, and symposia.
• Develop and maintain a codebase for new analytical capabilities.
• Work independently and as part of a collaborative team under supervision.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

R

GitHub

Linux scripting

MRI data analysis

Data analysis

Biophysical modeling

Large image data processing

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

GitHub repositories

Job description

The Department of Neurology at the University of California, Davis, invites applications for an Assistant Specialist position under the guidance of Dr. Audrey Fan. This role focuses on understanding the pathophysiological characteristics of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) using MRI in human aging and cognitive impairment.

Nature and Purpose

The Assistant Specialist is integral to our research team, providing technical expertise in the planning and execution of research projects. The role involves analyzing complex magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to advance our understanding of vascular contributions to dementia. This position encourages collaboration with principal investigators to contribute to scientific manuscripts and research proposals for external funding.

The Assistant Specialist will be responsible for data management, organization, and pipeline development for MRI biomarkers including cerebral blood flow and oxygen extraction fraction (OEF). The position will lead analysis for the OEF project, which includes data pre-processing, quality assurance, and brain tissue segmentation for regional biomarker measures. The specialist will also spearhead statistical associations with white matter hyperintensities, vascular risk factors, and cognitive measures from older individuals. Familiarity with scripting / pipelines in a Linux environment, coding skills (Matlab, R, Python), and codebase repositories (GitHub) is essential. Previous work with MRI and kinetic modeling is a bonus.

The selected candidate will be expected to contribute to academic publications published in peer-reviewed journals, participate in lab meetings and attend relevant talks/meetings. The ideal candidate should possess strong communication and decision-making skills, have a strong interest in medical imaging and neuroscience, and must be able to work well independently and as part of a team.

Major Responsibilities and Areas of Expertise

Research and Analysis (80% Effort)

• Conduct comprehensive data analysis and biophysical modeling of MRI data, to investigate brain perfusion and metabolism in aging and dementia
• Utilize advanced statistical and computational models, applying programming skills in Python, MATLAB, and R
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals, ensuring meaningful contributions to the field
• Disseminate research outcomes through presentations at national and international conferences, workshops, and symposia
• Develop and maintain a codebase that highlights new analytical capabilities introduced during the research
• Work independently, taking initiative and engaging in critical problem-solving with enthusiasm for advancing dementia imaging research.

Professional Competence and Activity (15% Effort)

• Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations
• Review research proposals, journal manuscripts, and publications related to the area of expertise.

University and Public Service (5% Effort)

• Participate in committee activities within the department, college, campus, and other university entities, as appropriate.

This is a full-time position. This position is funded at 100% time and is contracted for a year. There is the possibility of a year extension depending on work performance. The selected assistant specialist will work primarily under the supervision of Dr. Audrey Fan in the Department of Neurology.

This recruitment is conducted at the Assistant rank. The resulting hire will be at the Assistant rank, regardless of the proposed appointee's qualifications.

• Extensive experience in data analysis and computational modeling related to biological or neurological research
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, and codebase management using GitHub
• Experience organizing and managing data processing pipelines, especially for large image data processing
• Familiarity with MRI data analysis is preferred
• Great communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, critical problem-solving, and enthusiasm.