Whether you are new or experienced at fMRI, the staff at BIRC should be able to show you how to get started quickly. Your first point of contact should be Dr. Kwan-Jin Jung ( kjj1@pitt.edu), the BIRC MR Scientist, who is extremely capable and experienced at running fMRI studies. The MR Research Technologists, Scott Kurdilla ( kurdilla@pitt.edu) and Deborah Viszlay ( dev8@pitt.edu), may also be of help. Finally, the BIRC Systems Administrator may be able to help with computer issues, including setting up accounts and software.

Before running a study, you will need to provide BIRC with a copy of your approved IRB protocol and consent form that includes the use of the new imaging center. BIRC personnel will assist investigators with completing an IRB application, and will describe the technical specifications of the scanning procedure in language suitable for the IRB application.

Also, we would like each of you to leave with MR Research Technologists a copy of the signed informed consent for every participant who goes in the scanner. These procedures will help ensure the safety of human subject participation at BIRC.