Job Overview

A highly motivated Clinical Research Imaging Fellow is sought immediately to work with Dr. Pedram Hamrah's clinical research team in the Department of Ophthalmology. Clinical research in Dr. Hamrah's laboratory is focused on using live imaging - in vivo confocal microscopy - to better understand molecular and cellular mechanisms in corneal immunology, neuro-immunology and inflammation. The Clinical Research Imaging Fellow will assist in using this specialized microscope to do noninvasive optical biopsies of the cornea and eyelids to better understand corneal and ocular surface disease at a cellular level. The Clinical Research Imaging Fellow will select images for use in studies, identify inflammation in cells in the eye and determine the level of inflammation in the cornea. S/he will work with Dr. Hamrah on several clinical trials to examine the efficacy of various anti-inflammatory and regenerative medications on patients with these conditions, and assess the impact of these drugs on cellular changes. As needed, the Clinical Research Imaging Fellow will be required to independently develop protocols and establish new methodologies. S/he will be intimately involved in writing and presenting new discoveries. An M.D. is required

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

1. Reports to Principal Investigator

2. Interacts with other divisional investigators, technicians and support staff

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. PHD or MD in a relevant field of study.

2. Some clinical experience obtained through medical student clerkships, internship, residency or fellowship.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Record of publication in relevant field of study.

2. Knowledge of Corneal Disease

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Perform noninvasive optical biopsies of the cornea and eyelids to better understand corneal and ocular surface disease at a cellular level, utilizing an in vivo confocal microscope.

2. Select images for use in studies, identify inflammation in cells in the eye and determine the level of inflammation in the cornea.

3. Work on several clinical trials to examine the efficacy of various anti-inflammatory and regenerative medications on patients with conditions such as dry eye disease, and assess the impact of these drugs on cellular changes.

4. Analyze experimental results.

5. Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and present research data in house and at scientific conferences.

6. Write as well as assist in the preparation of applications for external grants for research and fellowships.

7. Develop protocols and establish new methodologies along with PI.

Physical Requirements:

1. Typical clinical and administrative office setting.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Demonstrated experience in research design, data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific writing.

2. Proficiency in statistical software packages (e.g., SPSS, SAS, R) and data management tools.

3. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.

4. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including experience presenting research findings to diverse audiences.

5. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

6. Knowledge of ethical guidelines and regulations related to healthcare research.