University of California San Francisco

Description: The MR-guided Focused Ultrasound Group in the Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging at the University of California San Francisco is seeking two post-doctoral fellows to develop and implement MR imaging and processing techniques for MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS). Special projects of interest will include the development of MR imaging techniques for FUS applications such as prostate and bone ablation, and real-time techniques for cardiac temperature monitoring. The successful candidates will participate in multidisciplinary and translational research programs in one of the many areas of collaborative interest at UCSF.

Qualifications: The candidates should have good communication skills, a solid background in MR physics and signal processing, and have experience with MR systems (preferably GE but not a requirement). Experience in MR technique development and pulse sequence programming and the ability to conduct sophisticated image post-processing are strong attributes. Familiarity with MRgFUS is not a requirement, but interest in learning about this new modality is expected. The responsibilities of the position include pulse sequence development for MR-guided focused ultrasound and MR temperature imaging, data processing, interfacing hardware and software for experiments, and conducting and participating in MRgFUS experiments. The applicant should have a PhD degree or equivalent in physics, engineering, or medical imaging.

Facilities: The MRgFUS research will be primarily conducted in the UCSF Center for Molecular and Functional Imaging (CMFI) at the China Basin Campus, where the MRgFUS equipment is installed in a 3T research scanner. The InSightec MRgFUS system has three interchangeable tables for different applications (fibroid, conformal, and prostate transducers). The facilities also include a CT scanner, a small animal 7T MR, a clinical PET/CT, small animal PET, cycletron, and a vivarium. UCSF is a world-class academic medical center and research institution and the  UCSF Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging is currently ranked #2 in total NIH funding among U.S. radiology departments.

The University of California San Francisco is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including minorities and women. Candidates should email a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, career goals, and contact information for three references to: Viola Rieke, Ph.D., Assistant Professor Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, China Basin Landing, 185 Berry Street, Suite 350, San Francisco, CA 94143-0946, USA, Phone: +1 415-353-4303, Viola.Rieke@UCSF.edu