Research Fellow - Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Analysis

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The Liggins Institute was the University’s first Large Scale Research Institute. It is a world leading centre for translational research on maternal, fetal and child health; the impact of nutrition on health throughout life; epigenetic regulation of growth and development; the origins of non-communicable diseases, particularly metabolic, and knowledge transfer.

Our research programme focuses on how maternal, foetal, and neonatal nutrition and the intrauterine environment affect fetal and postnatal growth, development, and long-term health. We are also working to understand the causes and consequences of preterm birth and fetal growth restriction, which together affect more than 8,000 babies born in New Zealand each year. 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic Post-doctoral Research Fellow with experience in neuroimaging studies to join a clinical research group at the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland.  The successful candidate will be involved in acquiring and analysing brain MRI data in children participating in neonatal clinical studies, including MR DIAMOND and MoPED.

DIAMOND is a multicentre factorial design randomised trial assessing the effects of three feeding strategies in moderate-late preterm babies. MR DIAMOND is a nested study to determine the effects of these different feeding strategies on specific aspects of brain maturation using MRI.

MoPED is a cohort study in moderate-late preterm babies investigating the relationships between early brain imaging findings and later development.

The research fellow will have day-to-day responsibility for acquiring, monitoring and analysis of advanced 3T MR imaging. Analyses will include clinical scoring, cortical morphometry, white matter tractography, and resting state functional networks.

This full time 2 year post will provide opportunity to work closely with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, developmental researchers and statisticians at the Liggins Institute, Auckland, and collaborate with researchers at the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto.

This is a fulltime (40 hours per week), 2-year fixed term role.
Remuneration: PD1 – SRF5: $91,328 - $133,386 dependant on experience, skills, and qualifications.
For more detailed information, please refer to the Position Description.

He kōrero mōu | About you

Our ideal candidate will be meticulous in all aspects of their work, have excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as a team member in a multidisciplinary environment.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A relevant PhD or equivalent qualification.
• Experience writing and presenting technical documents and reports.
• Basic programming and experience in common MR image analysis packages.
• Experience in MRI data acquisition and implementing MRI pipelines. 

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and maintains significant computational, laboratory and analytic facilities. Auckland itself is frequently rated as one of the world’s most liveable cities. 

The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment through:

• Flexible employment practices (including working from home, flexible hours)
• Up to 6.75% company superannuation scheme
• A competitive salary with five weeks’ annual leave

In addition, we also offer career development programmes, discounted car parking, a generous parental leave allowance, childcare and a number of other discounts on internal and external services. 

For more information, please visit Staff Benefits.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Applications should be submitted online, before the closing date of 19 October 2023 and include an up-to-date CV and cover letter outlining what strengths you will bring to this role.

If you have any questions about this role, please contact Distinguished Professor Jane Harding via j.harding@auckland.ac.nz. Please note we do not accept applications via email. 

Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz

The University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment where everyone can thrive. For further information see Te Ara Tautika | the Equity Policy and visit www.equity.auckland.ac.nz