Postdoctoral Research Scholar Position in Behavior Genetics and Neuroimaging

Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego

The Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego is pleased to invite applications for a postdoctoral research scholar position in behavior genetics and neuroimaging under the direction of Drs. William Kremen (Psychiatry) and Anders Dale (Radiology and Neuroscience). The position focuses on training in the application of sophisticated psychometric techniques (particularly twin analyses) and neuroimaging methods (structural MRI , DTI, fMRI, and ASL) that will be applied to the NIH/NIA-funded Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA) in collaboration with investigators at Boston University, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Virginia Commonwealth University. VETSA is a unique longitudinal study of over 600 middle-aged male twin pairs that focuses on understanding cognitive and brain aging. Over 500 twins have undergone 3D structural MRI and DTI in VETSA wave 1. These twins also underwent extensive neurocognitive assessment, personality and psychosocial measures, a medical history interview, in-lab physical health measures such as blood pressure and pulmonary function, and hormonal assays for cortisol, testosterone, and DHEAS. DNA has been obtained from all subjects and, to date, they have been genotyped for APOE. Genome-wide genotyping of all VETSA subjects is planned. Wave 2 of the project, which was recently funded, will acquire five-year follow-up data, and also include fMRI and ASL scans. Applications from many disciplines may be considered, and the position is open to qualified international applicants. Requirements for the position are: 1) completion of relevant Ph.D. research activities within the past five years; 2) advanced writing and advanced statistical or neuroimaging skills, and 3) an interest in imaging genetics research. Experience with multilevel data analysis, twin modeling, genetics, and/or neuroimaging is desirable. The postdoctoral candidate will be encouraged to develop his or her own research projects that fit within the overall scope of the project. The position will entail immersion in twin modeling (e.g., using Mx software) and MR image analysis including FreeSurfer and other methods.

This advertisement is for a 2-year appointment beginning immediately. Salary will be consistent with the NIH/NRSA levels in accordance with the University of California, San Diego for Postdoctoral trainees. Compensation includes full staff benefits, including health insurance, and vacation time. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. To apply, please send a copy of your CV, a brief statement of research interests and goals, and any selected reprints to the address below. Letters of reference will be required before final approval of hiring. Informal inquiries concerning this position are encouraged. Please e-mail wkremen@ucsd.edu for more details.

William S. Kremen, Ph.D.

Department of Psychiatry

University of California, San Diego

9500 Gilman Drive (MC 0738)

La Jolla, CA 92093-0738