Research Associate - Mahon Lab, Psychology Department

The research lab of Dr. Brad Mahon in the Department of Psychology at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking part-time Research Assistants (RA) to conduct research with human subjects with and without cognitive impairment, starting in April 2024. The RA will work extensively with individuals with brain damage (individuals who have had stroke, or who will be having neurosurgical interventions to treat epilepsy or brain tumor), and/or will work with developing analysis pipelines for data already being collected by the research lab.

Your Responsibilities will include:

• Recruiting individuals with brain lesions for participation in research studies, using the established and extensive resources available through the Mahon Lab
• Administering and scoring neuropsychological tests in such individuals
• Assisting with development of analysis pipelines for behavioral and neural data from research participants
• Participating in regular joint meetings between Mahon’s lab and other collaborating labs and clinicians

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within In the Psychology Department.  Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• BA, MA or MS in cognitive psychology, cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, speech pathology, computer science, or a related field
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a strong desire to work with individuals who are experiencing cognitive difficulties subsequent to a brain injury, or to work with neuroscience data collected from the study of individuals with brain injury
• Some experience working an environment that involves cognitive and/or linguistic assessments in human subjects is preferred.
• Basic skills in organizing data in spreadsheets is required
• Clear evidence of strong skills in quantitative and logical reasoning (e.g., prior course work)
• For candidates being considered for data-analytic-focused activities, a strong background and demonstrated track record in data analysis and computer programming is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with designing experiments in professional software such as Eprime, or Psych Toolbox is desirable.
• Programming skills (e.g. MATLAB, Python, etc.) is a plus.
• Some background in neuroimaging or lesion analysis is preferred, but not required. 
• Some knowledge of statistical analysis is preferred but not required.

Requirements:

• Successful background check

Additional Information:

Type/duration of the position – Part-time position, guaranteed funding is available for 1 year (contingent on satisfactory performance after review at 6 months), with potential for extension.

Starting date - April 2024.

Application materials:

• CV. The candidate’s CV must include information about their field of study , graduation date , college GPA , list of the relevant courses  (i.e., courses on cognition, linguistics, psycholinguistics, brain studies, statistical analysis, etc.), a brief summary of research activities in bullet points  (e.g., PI’s name, nature and duration of responsibilities in a cognitive or related lab), scientific publications  (if any; include projects that are in preparation for publication), scientific presentations (include local presentations, e.g., Honors seminars) , and additional qualifications  in bullet points (e.g., intermediate proficiency in French, knowledge of statistical analysis in R, etc.)

• A statement of purpose. A short cover letter (1pp max) describing (1) why this work is of interest to the candidate, (2) what qualifications make them a suitable candidate for this position, and (3) what their future career goals are.

• At least 1 letter of reference from academic supervisors/teachers who are familiar with the candidate’s strengths in respect of the criteria listed above may be requested for candidates invited to interview.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role & responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique key skills and the diverse perspectives you bring. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment means we also account for geographic differentials. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in this exciting opportunity?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Part time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: 

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. 

• Statement of Assurance