Research Assistant I job from Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, United States

Under the direction of Professor Leah Somerville in The Affective Neuroscience & Development Lab at Harvard University, the Research Assistant (RA) works on a series of projects aimed at understanding how brain development shapes changes in cognition, emotion, motivation, and decision making through adolescence.

The Research Assistant (RA) will gain experience with all aspects of the research process, which could serve as a launch pad to graduate studies. The RA's primary responsibilities include: (1) data acquisition using behavioral, psychophysiological, and brain imaging techniques; (2) general administrative duties to maintain the workings of the laboratory; (3) subject recruitment and screening; (4) management of datasets; and (5) manuscript and data preparation.

Background in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field and previous research experience is required. Experience with Word, Excel, Google docs/calendar is necessary.

B.A., B.S., or equivalent preferred. The following skills will confer an advantage but are not necessary to receive consideration: Experience working with children and adolescents in experimental settings and/or visiting schools to conduct research; clinical interviewing; experience with skin conductance, eye tracking and/or fMRI data acquisition and analysis; coursework or practical application of statistics; experience with IRB documentation; accounts management. Familiarity with programs such as R, Python, and FSL are especially valued.

The RA must possess excellent organizational and communication skills and must demonstrate the ability to work independently. Because this research involves the participation of children and adolescents, hours will vary week-to-week and will sometimes include evenings and weekends. Communication skills must be sufficiently strong to maintain excellent rapport with child and adolescent participants and their parents.

This is a one-year term position with renewal dependent upon continuation of funding.

All formal offers are made by FAS Human Resources.