Mayo Clinic, Department of Neurology and Department of Radiology Multiple Sclerosis Imaging Research Program Postdoctoral Fellowship – Advanced in Vivo and Ex Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy Studies in MS and Other Neuro-inflammatory Diseases We seek a highly motivated individual who can join our laboratory as a postdoctoral research fellow or as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. The position involves clinical and experimental research using MRI in studying cortical and white matter lesions, as well as overall tissue loss and mechanisms of tissue damage in MS. Our research activities are aimed at determining the relationship of cortical and white matter lesions, the MRI and MRS characteristics of different lesion types, their role in the pathogenesis of MS, and their relationship with clinically relevant functional outcome measures as well as measures of overall tissue loss. Our growing and externally funded research program, which involves a combination of in vivo and ex vivo imaging with currently existing and newly developed or locally customized imaging techniques, has proven to be a valuable tool to understand the pathology of CNS dysfunction in MS and related conditions. With access to unique and extensively characterized patient cohorts, and an infrastructure of 28 human MRI and 2 narrow-bore experimental MRI systems on campus, access to several core facilities and multiple collaborators, Mayo Clinic represents an ideal environment for cutting edge MRI and MRS research of neuro-inflammatory diseases. The successful applicant will be expected to lead and collaborate on experiments in MRI and MRS analysis, but will also be involved in all aspects of our studies, as well as project-related data management. Specific responsibilities will include: • Developing, modifying, executing image analysis protocols and scripted processing pipelines in order to analyze MRI scans from 3 Tesla Siemens and GE systems, as well as 7 and 16.4 Tesla narrow-bore Bruker systems. • Participating in all aspects of MRI data analysis and data management. • Develop and execute standalone projects using existing data, being in charge of all aspects of such projects, with appropriate supervision. • Participate in the development and optimization of new scanning protocols, including the development of novel or customized pulse sequences. • Preparing reports and documentation for review. • Disseminating results as articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and at major national and international conferences and workshops. • Mentoring junior staff associated with our research program. Qualifications and skills required: • A recent PhD in neuroscience, MRI physics, biochemistry, biomedical engineering or related field. • Strong publication record and excellent academic credentials. • Interest and expertise in aspects of proton MRI and MRS, and in advanced image analysis techniques. • At least basic knowledge of brain anatomy and neuroscience. • Substantial experience with scientific computing, including a strong working knowledge of Linux, BASH scripting, programming in Python or other high-level C++ based languages. • Expertise in advanced image analysis software packages such as FSL, FreeSurfer, Analyze, etc. • Ability to work effectively unsupervised. • Ability to work on collaborative projects with multiple investigators. • Strong written and verbal communication skills. Position Duration: Full-time, temporary, 1 year initial position, renewable annually, contingent upon performance. Salary: Commensurate with experience Application: Candidates should submit a cover letter with a brief statement describing their research experience and interests and goals, a full curriculum vitae, and the names of two individuals who would be willing to provide a letter of recommendation (with their contact information). Inquiries and applications should be directed to Dr. Istvan Pirko (pirko(a)mayo.edu) Deadline: Open until filled.