About the position
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. The lab aims to identify early biomarkers and cognitive or behavioral indicators of dementia in diverse populations, particularly among older Asian Americans, to facilitate earlier detection and intervention. Additionally, the lab seeks to enhance the understanding of how dementia symptoms manifest and progress in racially and ethnically minoritized groups by creating diagnostic tools that consider cultural nuances. Interventions based on research findings will be developed to meet the unique needs of older Asian Americans and other underserved populations, thereby improving care quality and health outcomes. A comprehensive database of neuropsychological and clinical data from ethnically diverse populations will be built to advance understanding of dementia risk and progression in these groups. The lab also aims to 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.
Responsibilities
- 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.
- Conducting clinical interviews to assess psychiatric and/or medical histories relevant to study protocols.
- Performing physical and/or neurological examinations as needed.
- Assessing participant eligibility based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.
- Participating in consensus meetings to establish clinical diagnoses as well as reviewing and editing consensus letters to participants.
- Monitoring participant safety throughout their involvement in the study, including evaluating adverse events and providing clinical oversight and feedback to participants as needed.
- Collaborating with the research team to ensure protocol adherence and proper documentation of clinical assessments.
- Contributing to data collection and interpretation of clinical findings for research purposes.
- Supporting the development and refinement of clinical procedures and study protocols as needed.
- Ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements for human subjects research.
- Communicating with participants, their families (if applicable), and interdisciplinary team members regarding clinical findings and study-related concerns.
Requirements
- MD or an equivalent medical degree with a license to practice in the US, along with clinical training and experience in dementia evaluation.
- Expertise in AD/ADRD diagnosis.
- Familiarity with clinical research processes and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards is highly desirable, though prior research experience is not strictly required.
- Excellent communication skills in English are required.
- Proficiency in Mandarin and Cantonese is preferred but not required.
- Familiarity with platforms such as REDCap and knowledge of IRB protocols.
- Prior involvement in AD/ADRD research or related clinical studies.
Benefits
- Compensation range from $90,000 to $100,000 (not including bonuses/incentive compensation or benefits).
- Salary range is for full-time employment and does not include bonuses/incentive compensation or benefits.
