MRI Technologist

Cape Fox Shared Services
United States, Maryland, Baltimore
Nov 08, 2024
Responsibilities: Perform regular quality assurance procedures on the scanner, data acquisition and archiving of imaging data Operate 3T Siemens scanner for human brain research utilizing MR spectroscopy,structural and functional MRI Operate 3T Siemens scanner for animal research studies Ensure that all human and animal experiments conducted follow applicable NIH standards and regulations Act as a participant advocate for participant safety and comfort Ensure that MR imaging, behavioral and physiological data collected are of the highest quality Execute research projects focusing on reproducibility and quality assurance of different pulse sequence and activation paradigms with the assistance of an MR physicist Assist in training research fellows and other NIDA employees to perform MR studies Advise staff on any problems that may need attention as well as provide guidance and ensure that scanning logistics, scheduling and supplies are taken care of in a timely fashion Ensure that the MRI suite and mock scanner room are clean, in order and appropriately stocked with supplies to provide a clean environment for participants Participate in developing and maintaining research protocol documentation and operations Educate participants on research protocols Train participants on cognitive tasks specific to protocols Operate various research equipment following the training by and supervision of senior PhDMD level personnel Physicists, neuroscientists, physicians including, but not limited to EEG, MRI, TMS, tDCS Maintain MRI schedule Perform research procedures on research participants and participate in the evaluation of new imaging methods and techniques utilizing Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI and transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS Create multiple redundant backups of all imaging data acquired, including past (historic) studies. Executes research projects focusing on reproducibility and quality assurance of different pulse sequence and activation paradigms with the assistance of an MRI Physicist. Collect Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain images, functional MRI images and MR spectra (Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy). Perform regular quality assurance procedures on MRI scanner and instruments. Perform clinical and research MRI procedures on patients and animals, including standard clinical MRI scans or more specialized research studies. Set up all MRI-specific equipment and matrix camera, coils and display equipment for functional imaging. Operate the control console during scanning, including selecting proper imaging sequence. Work in conjunction with other clinical staff, research scientists and administrative staff in maintaining the smooth function of the facility. Perform study testing, observations data entry and other duties associated with study sessions. Execute research projects focusing on reproducibility and quality assurance of different pulse sequence and activation paradigms with the assistance of an MR physicist. Ensure that all human and animal experiments conducted follow applicable NIH standards and regulations. Organizes data into computerized data sets. Transfer both raw and post-processed images and data to specified databases and/or secure storage media (secure external hard drives and/or DVDs), where they can be stored safely. Log all scans performed in the appropriate log book. Enter participant/patient data at start of scanning and monitor data acquisition during scanning. Perform post-processing steps to acquired images and data as specified by the study investigators. Create, enter and maintain research data on associated reports and spreadsheets. Ensure that MR imaging, behavioral and physiological data collected are of the highest quality. Maintain monthly statistical data for MRI scans. Collect and archive MRI data. Archive all image data and transfer of clinical images to the PACS system and the research data to off-line computer workstations; ensure that all study information is available in PACS and ready for radiologist review. Act as PACS administrator from creating new projects and subjects as required and correcting errors in the PACS database. Upload non-imaging data into PACS database. Acts as subject/patient advocate, monitoring comfort and subject cooperation with experimental protocol physiological parameters (pulse rate, respiration, oxygen saturation), and length of time of research exams. Ensure that all research participants, patients and visitors are free of metal objects and other exclusion criteria. Adhere to safety precautions and procedures that govern the MRI Facility. Ensure the participant's or patient's safety and comfort throughout scanning using the patient monitoring system. Transfer, position and instruct research participants and/or patients regarding the procedure to obtain the desired radiographic results as specified by the research study. Act as a participant advocate for participant safety and comfort. Ensure that everyone entering the scanner room is appropriately screened for MRI contraindications; maintain records of all MRI screening documentation. Perform all aspects of standard clinical imaging - prepare the patients to be scanned; explain the MRI procedure; acquire consent; address MRI safety screening for contraindications. Act as the MR safety officer determining eligibility for participants Operates the scanner during both anatomical and functional imaging experiments. Operate the MRI scanner doing structural and functional imaging and MR spectroscopy studies, which are part of clinical research studies. Operate 3T Siemens scanner for animal research studies. Operate the control console during scanning; select proper imaging sequences; operate peripheral hardware for effective image and data acquisition. Perform standard clinical and more specialized research MRI procedures on patients (e.g., functional MRI, diffusion MRI, MR spectroscopy, or animal scans). Schedules investigators' time on the scanner. Assist in scheduling of research participants for MRI scans to achieve a smooth flow and optimal utilization of the Facility. Create and update a schedule for the Facility that integrates research studies and clinical studies. Maintain MRI schedule. Oversee MRI study participant schedule on a day to day and weekly basis. Ensure that the scanner is used optimally on a daily basis; inform the researchers of any open the scanner slots and adjust the schedule to ensure efficient use of the scanner. Solves MRI related technical questions by designing and performing independent technical research work. Develop and maintain research protocol documentation and operations. Provide guidance and ensure that scanning logistics, scheduling and supplies are taken care of. Attend staff meetings to indicate MRI protocol progress/issues. Work with research fellows to assist development of new research protocols. Participate in the design and evaluation of new imaging methodologies and techniques. Search for ways to optimize scanning protocols used by investigators. Trains users on how to operate the scanner and gain independence in their experiments. Educate staff on research protocols and the use of the scanners. Train and mentor personnel in the use of various research equipment. Work with staff on training of research fellows and other employees to perform MR studies. Conduct training for new and existing MRI research protocols. Train research staff and other staff on scanner operation and MR safety issues. Train new researchers and technologists how to operate the MRI scanner safely and efficiently; maintain current familiarity of any updates to the MR instrumentation and software. Track all training and coordinate renewal of training. Including CPR/BLS. Provides expert level information on the software and hardware capabilities of the MRI scanner. Operate peripheral hardware as needed for effective image and data acquisition. Ensure the integrity of previously acquired data, hardware and other equipment, software and physical environment of the Facility. Advise staff on any problems that may need attention. Work with clinical scientists, coil developers and other vendors to test and troubleshoot new hardware and software for the MRI scanner. Function as an expert regarding the software and hardware capabilities of the MR scanner. Provide expert level information and assistance on the software and hardware capabilities of the MR. Provides input to decide what modifications of the unit are necessary to produce optimum image spectra and most efficient use of the scanner. Identify equipment malfunctions and notify appropriate personnel in case of malfunctions; schedule and/or perform routine equipment maintenance functions. Assist in scheduling of research participants for MRI scans to achieve a smooth flow and optimal utilization of the Facility. Recognize equipment malfunctions and notify appropriate personnel in case of malfunctions. Schedule and/or perform routine equipment maintenance functions. Perform regular quality assurance procedures on the scanner, data acquisition and archiving of imaging data. Provide input to decide what modifications of the unit are necessary to produce optimum image spectra and most efficient use of the scanner. Function as an expert regarding the software and hardware capabilities of the MR scanner. Schedule and coordinate all non-routine scanner maintenance.