The Brain Imaging Research Center now offers qualified candidates the opportunity to learn how to operate the Siemens Prisma 3T MRI Scanner to perform brain research studies. This training will consist of three components:
Didactic – All candidates will be required to attend a two-hour class about MRI safety tailored to issues that can be encountered during data acquisition. This training will include: Preventing radiofrequency (RF) burns; working with Specific Absorption Rates (SAR); proper participant preparation; quench emergency procedures. Note: a basic knowledge of MRI physics is necessary for this class.
Instrumentation – All candidates will be required to attend a two-hour class to learn basic scanner operation, including: User platform orientation (Syngo VE11C); coil selection and handling; participant positioning; BOLD screen operation; Eye Link operation; response box selection and operation; image transfer to NiDB or XNAT; basictroubleshooting.
Scanner Operation – All candidates will be required to successfully complete a minimum of twenty research scan sessions that include fMRI (BOLD) imaging, structural sequences, and DTI (diffusion tensor imaging) with direct supervision by an MRI Technologist. Scanning studies currently active at BIRC may complete this requirement. Additional scan sessions may be required at the discretion of the supervising technologist.
After successful completion of the above training, the candidate will be allowed to scan his or her own studies without direct supervision. Note: An MRI technologist must be in the facility for all scan sessions.
Candidates must maintain their status by completing a minimum of one study per month. Failure to do so will require a minimum of two directly supervised scan sessions per missed month.
Training is expected to begin the week of October 28 2019, allowing the candidate to be prepared to scan his or her own study during the spring semester.
Qualified candidate prerequisites:
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- Post doc with a commitment to remain for a minimum of one year (must be endorsed by PI)
- Graduate student who has completed their Masters degree and must be endorsed by PI
- Formal knowledge of basic MRI physics
- Completion of Level 1 and Level 2 Safety Training
- CPR certified (must provide documentation prior to scanning humans)
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Online classes available at redcross.org/take-a-class/online-safety-classes
Interested candidates can apply for this training opportunity by providing the following information and documentation:
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- PI name, duration of contract, and written endorsement
- Proof of formal basic MRI physics education
- Any previous MRI experience
- Study name, projected start date, and expected number of participants
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Important dates:
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- Application submission: October 7-October 18 2019
- Candidate acceptance notification: October 25 2019
- Didactic and Instrumentation training: November 2019 (dates TBD)
- Scanner Operation: November 2019 until completed
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Please send the requested information to:
Elisa Medeiros, R.T.(R)(CT)(MR)
MRSO (MRSC™)
Manager, MRI Services
University of Connecticut
Brain Imaging Research Center
2 Alethia Drive Unit 1271
Storrs CT 06269-1271