The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) is seeking a PhD-level scientist with small animal imaging experience to manage the Small Animal Imaging Labs Platform (SAIL).
More information is available below.
Position summary
The RI-MUHC Small Animal Imaging Labs (SAIL) Platform is a unique and comprehensive technology suite for non-invasive imaging in pre-clinical animal models to create holistic views of diseases, and to follow labelled tracers of drugs and biomarkers. The platform is equipped for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and computed tomography (CT). We are currently seeking a highly motivated, organized and enthusiastic individual to join our dynamic team.
Under the supervision of the Manager of Operations and Platforms, the incumbent will be responsible for leading and overseeing the daily operation of the SAIL Platform, including: providing internal researchers and external clients with scientific consultation and support in experimental design and execution of MRI, PET, SPECT, and CT imaging projects, development and implementation of animal imaging protocols and operating procedures, and performing acquisition of images
General Duties
- Lead development and implementation of novel small animal MRI, PET, SPECT and CT image acquisition, processing, and image analysis methods;
- Perform acquisition of multi-modality images in animal models;
- Meet with prospective and active clients offering scientific expertise in advising and guiding experimental design to ensure best outcome of projects;
- Participate actively in R&D activities and in grant applications (including grant writing) for relevant research and equipment funding opportunities;
- Ensure deliverables according to scheduled timelines;
- Troubleshoot experimental procedures, research issues and when necessary, work with service engineers and/or technicians to maintain and repair equipment;
- Deliver scientific and budgetary oversight, regularly reporting platform budget status and projections to upper management. Proactively anticipate capital equipment needs and staffing requirements;
- Actively participate in the strategic planning and development of the platform and plan new platform growth opportunities including expanded service offerings and new collaborations with industry and with the MUHC charitable foundations;
- Promote platform services and activities locally, nationally and internationally, seek out and develop partnerships;
- Assign work and supervise staff and trainees;
- Work closely with other SAIL Team Members to ensure proper performance of the scanners;
- Conduct educational activities, courses, presentations, workshops and training programs;
- Oversee the purchase of supplies, service contracts, inventory and seek out and develop partnerships with vendors;
- Maintain detailed records of projects and results including collecting, extracting and entering data via both electronic and paper files/notebook;
- Track projects, maintain user database and oversee invoicing through on line management system;
- Provide support in manuscript and grant application writing;
- Prepare annual reports for presentation to RI-MUHC Management;
- Perform other duties as required or assigned.
Education / Experience
Education: Doctorate Degree or MSc. (with significant experience)
Field of Study: Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent.
Work Experience:
Professional Membership: ☐ Yes ☒ No
Other Requirements:
- The ideal candidate will have a solid background in imaging (e.g. Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering), but candidates with a strong background in research involving small animals will be considered;
- Experience in animal MRI, PET and/or SPECT studies is an asset;
- Solid hands-on experience with animal models (e.g. dosing, surgical procedures, behavioral studies, etc.);
- Experience in image processing & analysis methods is an asset;
- Good knowledge and understanding of the principles of molecular and cellular biology;
- Ability to work in a collaborative environment and interact with facility users, scientific staff, and support employees at all levels exchanging information, providing instruction/training, and interpreting research results as appropriate;
- Previous management experience is an asset;
- Ability to prepare reports and synthesize information, to produce complex analyses and to develop systems and management tools.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills (in English or in French);
- Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Self-motivated and organized; able to work both independently and/or part of a team.