fNIRS Clinical Research Assistant

This position supports research on behavioral and biological risk factors for cardiovascular disease and brain health. The goal of the study is to better understand how stress and physical activity influence brain and heart health across the lifespan. Responsibilities include recruiting and screening participants, administering functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and psychophysiological assessment protocols, and managing, reducing, and analyzing study data. The position would require some work-schedule flexibility to accommodate working adults who participate in the research study (e.g., occasional evening and weekend availability may be necessary). Excellent attention to detail, organizational and time management skills, interpersonal and relationship-building skills, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and the constituencies in support of a diverse community are all required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with participant testing in fNIRS, EEG, fMRI, or psychophysiological research.
• Some familiarity with basic coding, data management, or statistical analysis (e.g., Matlab, R, Python, SPSS, etc.).
• Strong organizational skills and ability to handle confidential information.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree.
• One year of relevant experience in participant testing and data handling.

Conducts research assessments and procedures independently. Oversees operations when leadership is unavailable. Recruits and screens participants, reviews records and surveys, and maintains databases. Performs routine data analysis and prepares reports, data visualizations, and models.

Essential Functions 

This position requires the ability to:
• Quickly learn and accurately administer fNIRS, psychophysiological, and other data collection procedures using specialized laboratory equipment and software, in accordance with a strict research protocol.
• Interact professionally with adults of diverse backgrounds and life circumstances.
• Utilize scientific software programs to collect, reduce, and analyze research data.
• Maintain attention to detail for proper data collection, entry, and analysis.

The position is primarily sedentary, although walking to lab spaces across campus will be required for participant assessments. No heavy lifting or extended standing is involved.