Research Technician
If interested in this opportunity, please visit www.mghcareers.org and apply for JOB ID# 3190217
GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:
Under general supervision, schedules and performs Magnetoencephalography (MEG) Studies and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies using a magnetic resonance device. The Neurophysiology Technician will prepare patients, position them, set imaging parameters, perform computer processing, and display images. Obtains insurance pre-approval when scheduling and sends the finalized imaging reports to referring clinicians. Selects appropriate imaging protocol for patient studies. Performs quality assurance scans as required. Demonstrates the ability to work cohesively as a team member within the MEG & MRI Departments. The incumbent will work closely with the MEG & MR physicists and Medical Director at the A.A. Martinos Center to test and troubleshoot the MEG and MRI systems for research and clinical use.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Works with patients’ family, insurance carriers, and referring clinicians to schedule and perform MEG imaging tests.
- Operate the MEG and MRI scanners for data recording. This includes placement of high-density EEG cap, and assess quality of EEG recording.
- Facilitate the use of the MEG laboratory for multiple research groups.
- Assist in maintaining the MEG equipment, including daily tuning of the sensors, transfer of liquid Helium, and interfacing with the system manufacturer and related vendors.
- Conduct user training for MEG users, instructing and helping researchers in preparing and troubleshooting specific experimental setups for their MEG studies.
- Support users and other research staff during subject preparation, data acquisition, in applying insurance approval and in understanding insurance policies.
- Support of electronic equipment for acquisition and stimulus systems in MEG and MRI systems.
- Works closely with the Medical Director at the Center to help educate the large Principal Investigator community about upcoming software and hardware changes.
- Performs scheduled quality control procedures on MEG & MRI scanners and other related equipment. Records QA results as required. Reports any potential equipment related problems to supervisor as necessary.
- MRI and MEG safety procedures.
- Ensures adherence to safety practices by all persons entering the MRI and MEG areas.
- Reviews outpatient and/or inpatient schedules to confirm exams have been protocoled and reviewed for potential contra-indications.
- Acts as final check point for patient safety and protocol clarification.
- Communicates with Medical Director for protocol clarification when necessary.
- Uses designated department protocols. If issues are observed within the designated protocol, reports them to the site supervisor and/or Quality Assurance Manager
- Assists in the instruction of visitors and medical staff rotating through the area. Explains patient procedures, processing, equipment operation, safety practices, etc.
- Mentors new staff and fellow technologists as necessary.
- Adheres to MGH “Good-To-Go” policies and practices.
- Maintains a neat work environment, including patient care areas, MR scan rooms, MR control rooms and reading areas.
- Monitors appropriate inventory and par levels of necessary supplies and communicates with Manager / Supervisor.
- Performs other related duties as required.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
- Mental/visual ability to operate complex electronic equipment and instrumentation and perform quality control procedures on equipment.
- Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills in order to work with staff who have various degrees of medical and technical experience.
- Must demonstrate the ability to provide appropriate care to various age populations.
- Must be able to read, write and effectively communicate in English.
CERTIFICATIONS:
- BLS
EDUCATION:
- Bachelor’s degree required
Field of Study/Additional Specialized Training:
Neuroscience Psychology, Electircal Engineering, Biomedical Engineering or related field.
EXPERIENCE:
Minimum of 1-year of directly related experience in biomedical research, clinical sciences, or related hospital administration, such as interacting with and applying rules of private and govenmental insurance carrier policies.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Mental/visual ability to operate complex electronic equipment and istrumentation and perform quality control procedures on equipment; ability to transfer patients to MR scan table and push table from prep room to exam room; must lift and transfer patients to stretchers, lift/move MRI coils, etc.