University of Virginia-posted 3 months ago
Part-time • Entry Level
Charlottesville, VA

The Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at UVA's School of Medicine (SOM) is seeking a Graduate Federal Work-Study Student to develop a comprehensive web-based platform for consciousness and perception research experiments within the Ray Westphal Neuroimaging Laboratory. This is a part-time work-study position (10-20 hours/week), with flexibility for remote work and required periodic in-person collaboration at the Division's downtown Charlottesville office, and under the supervision of David Acunzo. The successful candidate will lead the technical development of secure, scientifically rigorous experimental tasks for ESP and psychokinesis studies, with integration to specialized hardware including random number generators (RNG) and EEG systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced software engineering skills to cutting-edge consciousness research.

  • Design and develop a secure, tamper-proof web-based experimental platform preventing participant manipulation and ensuring data integrity
  • Implement precise timing mechanisms for stimulus presentation and response collection critical for parapsychological experiments
  • Create modular architecture separating user interface from backend systems for maximum flexibility
  • Integrate software with hardware random number generators and EEG recording systems for synchronized data collection
  • Build database schema linking experimental data with participant profiles, psychological assessments, and environmental variables
  • Develop both standalone applications for controlled laboratory settings and scalable web interfaces for remote participation
  • Implement comprehensive logging and audit trails for research validation and peer review requirements
  • Create engaging, game-like experimental tasks while maintaining scientific rigor and experimental controls
  • Document code, APIs, and create technical guides for researchers and future developers
  • Collaborate with DOPS researchers to translate experimental paradigms into robust software implementations
  • Pass the relevant UVA trainings for maintaining confidentiality in research practices
  • Participate in weekly research meetings and contribute to the technical aspects of research proposals
  • Perform other duties as assigned
  • Currently enrolled graduate student in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
  • Strong proficiency in modern web development (HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript)
  • Experience with at least one web framework (React, Vue, Angular, or similar)
  • Backend development experience (Node.js, Python, Ruby, or similar)
  • Database experience (SQL or NoSQL)
  • Understanding of web security principles and best practices
  • Experience with version control (Git)
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work collaboratively with researchers from non-technical backgrounds
  • Good communication skills to discuss technical solutions with the research team
  • Experience with real-time web technologies (WebSockets, Server-Sent Events)
  • Hardware/software integration experience
  • Background in statistics or data analysis
  • Experience with research software development
  • Interest in psychology, neuroscience, or consciousness research
  • Knowledge of C# and .NET framework (for understanding legacy code)
  • Flexible work arrangements with the ability to work remotely for most development tasks
  • Periodic in-person meetings required at UVA's Division of Perceptual Studies offices
  • Compensation of $22.00 Hourly
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