Research Assistant Positions: Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation

Research Assistant Positions: Neuropsychiatry and Neuromodulation
Dr. Joan Camprodon, Laboratory for Neuropsychiatry & Neuromodulation, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School
fall 2022

Our research uses multimodal combinations of brain stimulation, neuroimaging, neurophysiology and behavioral methods to investigate neural circuitry and plasticity in a translational manner. Our laboratory works with a wide range of noninvasive and invasive neuromodulation techniques including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) among others. We also use functional and structural MRI, EEG and innovative simultaneous combinations of TMS and tDCS with neuroimaging. We are interested in understanding circuit properties of human neural networks and how maladaptive plastic changes lead to neuropsychiatric disorders. The scope of our research includes basic, translational and clinical projects focused on circuit neuroscience. Current projects address the anatomy and physiology of disease-relevant networks as well as the investigation of pathophysiological mechanisms at the circuit level, with an emphasis on transdiagnostic processes. Critical translational efforts are geared towards applying the paradigms and methods of human systems and cognitive neuroscience to develop tools with the potential to change clinical practice: e.g. identify biomarkers and predictors, discover treatment targets and design individualized precision therapies with an emphasis on device-based neuromodulation. Responsibilities: Different projects may lead to different sets of responsibilities. Students will be exposed to analysis of neuroimaging and neurophysiology data, including gaining experience with scientific coding in the context of human translational neuroscience research. Students may also be exposed to data acquisition learning methods such as MRI, EEG, brain stimulation (TMS and tDCS) and behavioral and clinical assessments. Requirements and Expectations: 10 hours per week or more would maximize the educational value of the rotation. The greater the computer science/data science previous experience the better, but students are welcome without much previous experience if they are interested in learning these skills in real projects. Additional Information: Three positions are available. Positions are not paid but can offer course credit. Our laboratory is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard and is part of MGH and HMS. To Apply: Email Dr. Joan Camprodon (Jcamprodon@mgh.harvard.edu) and Christopher Funes (CJFUNES@mgh.harvard.edu). (posted 8/2022)