Investigators that collect MEG data can use the workstations in the MEG suite to learn how to pre-process and analyze their data with the assistance of the MEG team. This access is typically granted for a period of time, pending availability of workstations, long enough to analyze 1-2 subjects and develop an analysis workflow.
For investigators looking for MEG training or that are interested in learning more about Brainstorm, there are several training courses offered throughout the year. The schedule can be found on the BIC website under Training and Events, MEG training.
Obtaining MEG Operator Certification
Investigators are encouraged to obtain certification to become an operator of the MEG instrument to benefit from 24/7 access to the MEG instrument, i.e. access outside regular opening hours and a discount on rates.
To obtain certification, the investigator should contact the MEG System Manager (marc.lalancette2 [at] mcgill.ca). Training begins with one or two sessions (about 3 hours) in the MEG lab to cover many aspects:
- subject safety,
- equipment operation,
- basic system design and principles,
- general procedure for participant set up and data collection,
- acquisition software,
- identifying artefacts,
- troubleshooting.
Following this, the trainee will be supervised and assisted by the MEG System Manager during at least the first 3 recording sessions of his/her own study. These training sessions are billed at the regular data acquisition rate (with assistance). There is no additional cost to obtaining this certification.
The MEG System Manager and the Director of MEG Research may require that additional training sessions are necessary before obtaining certification. Additional training sessions can also be requested by the investigator.
The investigator will then be notified by a letter from the Director of MEG Research that he/she has obtained certification to operate the MEG system independently. The certification is valid for all current and future studies run by this investigator. The MEG Program will maintain a list of certified MEG operators so that other PI's are encouraged to use their services.
