About this track

The Computational Image Analysis and Research team is responsible for organizing, processing and analyzing behaviors, clinical, neuropsychological, genetic, and more importantly, multiple neuroimaging modal data. The multi-modal neuroimaging data includes volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional MRI (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET) with various tracers to measure separate glucose utilization, oxygen consumption, blood perfusion, amyloid deposition and tau accumulation for the studies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), AD risks, and its preclinical course as well as other neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson disease.

These neuroimaging techniques provide us a window to examine the human brain, the structural, functional, pathological abnormalities especially related to the disease of interest.  We use highly sophisticated statistical and imaging processing software packages such as R, SAS, MATLAB, FreeSurfer, SPM, AFNI and FSL for our data analyses. In addition, we develop and implement necessary algorithms to increase our analysis sensitivity.

Our program offers opportunities to learn the neuroimaging techniques, their use in medical research, statistical and imaging analysis methods, some basic computer programming such as R, MATLAB and scripting in Linux environment.   Students will also learn how to prepare scientific reports.

Students should be working toward completion of a Bachelor’s degree in science, mathematics, computer science, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics, psychology, or related health profession.

Basic knowledge of statistics and computer science skills are preferred.

Applicants have the opportunity to rank interest in individual research areas on the Application Form.  Every effort will be made to match you to your preference, but it is not guaranteed. 

Banner Alzheimer’s Institute

This track is located at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Phoenix, AZ.

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Information required:

• Education history (high school to graduate school)
• Previous employment
• Military service
• Summary of past research experience
• Personal statement
• Contact information for faculty and professional references
• GPA
• Unofficial transcripts