Postdoctoral Fellow-MSH-13400-355

Details of Research Project: 

The Li Lab’s primary research goal is to enhance the detection, diagnosis, and prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) in ethnically diverse populations, with a particular emphasis on older Asian Americans. The lab aims to develop and refine culturally sensitive neuropsychological assessments and diagnostic tools to meet the unique needs of these groups. Ongoing research projects include:

• Standardizing neuropsychological assessments in multiple languages (English, Mandarin, and Cantonese) to facilitate dementia diagnosis across diverse cultural groups.
• Investigating cognitive and behavioral biomarkers of dementia in older Asian American populations, specifically focusing on identifying early signs of AD/ADRD.
• Examining cultural differences in the presentation of dementia symptoms and creating culturally adapted interventions.
• Exploring the roles of social and environmental factors in dementia risk and outcomes within Asian American communities and other underserved groups.

Technical Duties: (include any protocols)

• Administer standardized neuropsychological tests in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, ensuring that testing protocols are followed accurately and consistently.  
• Score and interpret neuropsychological test results, taking into account both cognitive and behavioral aspects of the assessments.  
• Utilize specialized software and statistical programs (e.g., SPSS, R) to analyze research data and assist in generating reports on assessment findings.  
• Prepare and maintain detailed and accurate clinical documentation and research records in accordance with ethical standards and institutional policies.  
• Support the development and implementation of new assessment tools or protocols as part of research initiatives.  
• Assist in managing and organizing research data, including data entry, data cleaning, and ensuring the integrity of the datasets for analysis.  Coordinate the scheduling and logistics of clinical evaluations, working closely with research coordinators and participants.  
• Participate in lab meetings, providing technical input on assessment methodology and sharing insights from ongoing research.  

Educational and other Requirements for the position:

• A Ph.D. in Neuropsychology, Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related field is required. 
• Candidates must demonstrate strong proficiency in both Chinese (Mandarin and/or Cantonese) and English, both orally and in writing, and should be able to conduct assessments and communicate effectively in both languages. 
• A solid understanding of neuropsychological testing, dementia evaluation, and cognitive assessment is essential. 
• We seek individuals committed to advancing research and clinical practice related to Alzheimer?s disease, dementia, and other neurocognitive disorders, particularly within ethnically diverse populations.
• Candidates should be able to clearly and effectively communicate research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.
• Flexibility to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team is important.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills are necessary to effectively balance clinical and research responsibilities.
• Additionally, there is a willingness to engage in ongoing professional development through training, seminars, and research activities.

Experience Required:

1. A strong background in neuropsychology or clinical psychology, with an emphasis on dementia, aging, or related fields, is essential.
2. Previous experience conducting neuropsychological assessments, particularly with dementia or aging populations, is required.
3. Experience in administering standardized cognitive tests, interpreting neuropsychological data, and contributing to the diagnosis process is necessary.
4. Familiarity with statistical analysis and research software (e.g., SPSS, R) is required.
5. Experience with clinical research methodologies, including participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis, is highly preferred.
6. Previous involvement in community-based research or outreach activities, especially with older adults or racially/ethnically diverse populations, is a plus.
7. Experience collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including clinicians, social workers, research coordinators, and program managers, is beneficial.
8. A demonstrated interest in dementia-related research, particularly Alzheimer?s Disease and Alzheimer?s Disease-Related Dementias, as well as cross-cultural research, is essential.

Goals/Outcomes of the Research Project: 

The primary goals of the research projects within the Li Lab are to:

• Improve diagnostic accuracy for Alzheimer?s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Asian American and other ethnically diverse populations by developing culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate neuropsychological assessments.
• Identify early biomarkers and cognitive or behavioral indicators of dementia in diverse populations, particularly among older Asian Americans, to facilitate earlier detection and intervention.
• Enhance the understanding of how dementia symptoms manifest and progress in racially and ethnically minoritized groups by creating diagnostic tools that consider cultural nuances.
• Develop interventions based on research findings that can be customized to meet the unique needs of older Asian Americans and other underserved populations, thereby improving care quality and health outcomes.
• Build a comprehensive database of neuropsychological and clinical data from ethnically diverse populations to advance understanding of dementia risk and progression in these groups.
• Share findings with the global scientific community to contribute to broader research applications and inform policy recommendations regarding dementia diagnosis and treatment in diverse populations.