Project Assistant

University of Southern California; California; On-site; USD 36,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Southern California invites applications for a full-time Project Assistant at the Imaging Genetics Center in Marina del Rey, CA. You will handle pre/post-processing of brain imaging data and analyze connectivity across disorders such as Alzheimer's and bipolar disorder.

Expect collaboration with a vibrant team and opportunities to apply ML to large-scale brain datasets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, CS, math, statistics, neuroscience, or related field.
• Programming in Matlab, Python, R, C++, shell scripting and knowledge of image analysis software such as FSL or SPM preferred.
• Knowledge of advanced statistics or genetics is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Pre- and post-process raw imaging data (MRI, DTI, etc.) and assess brain connectivity in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• Implement machine learning and deep learning methods on large brain imaging datasets and biobank data.
• Become an expert with image processing and computational tools (e.g., FSL).
• Use shell scripting regularly and help develop realistic timelines with the team.

Skills

Matlab

Python

R

C++

Shell scripting

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering / computer science / math / statistics / neuroscience

Master's degree in applied statistics or related field

Tools

FSL

SPM

Job description

The USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute and Laboratory of Neuro Imaging (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.

LONI’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 looking for talented full‑time Project Assistant to perform research including analysis of brain images.

The 30-member team at IGC is the hub of the ENIGMA project (http://enigma.ini.usc.edu/), which integrates brain imaging data from 185 institutions around the world.

We are actively involved in some of the largest‑ever brain imaging studies of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, HIV/AIDS, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar illness, and Parkinson’s disease, studying brain scans from thousands of patients.

We also lead or participate in numerous studies of normal development, genetics, traumatic brain injury, and brain connectivity.

Our laboratory writes and applies novel computational algorithms to study how major psychiatric and neurological diseases affect brain structure, function, and connectivity.

Job Function

The Project Assistant will be in charge of pre/post-processing raw imaging data (MRI, DTI, etc.) and will assess brain connectivity in a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders – including Alzheimer's, bipolar disorder, brain trauma, and childhood developmental disorders.

Some projects will involve implementing machine learning and deep learning methods to large‑scale brain imaging datasets and biobank data.

Will become an expert with image processing and other computational tools (i.e., FSL).

Will use shell scripting on a regular basis.

Will work with team to develop realistic but challenging timelines.

Basic Qualifications

The successful applicant will be a reliable, independent worker with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, computer science, math, statistics, neuroscience, or a related field.

Computer programming skills in Matlab, Python, R, C++, shell scripting and knowledge of image analysis software such as FSL or SPM are preferred.

Knowledge of advanced statistics or genetics is a plus.

This full‑time position is ideal for candidates looking to spend a couple of years doing neuroimaging research before medical school or an advanced graduate degree.

Preferred Education

Master’s degree in applied statistics or a related field.

Minimum Education

Bachelor's degree 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.

The hourly rate range for this position is $25.96 - $ 29.00.

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.

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.

USC is an equal opportunity employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy.

USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety.

Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities.

Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

Notice of Non-discrimination Employment Equity Read USC’s Clery Act Annual Security Report USC is a smoke-free environment Digital Accessibility.

USC is a leading private research university located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles – a global center for arts, technology and international business.

As the largest private employer in the city – responsible for more than $5 billion annually in economic activity in the region – we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills.

As a USC employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits and perks, and you will be a member of the Trojan Family - the faculty, staff, students and alumni who make USC a great place to work.