Lab Assistant (Research Lab Tech I)

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

1d • $22 - $26 • Onsite

About The Position

We’re recruiting a full-time lab tech to join the Shared Minds Lab at the University of Southern California! This is a great opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on research experience before pursuing a PhD in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or a related field. The Shared Minds Lab, led by PI Sam Nastase at USC (https://shared-minds.github.io/), is accepting applications for a full-time lab tech/research assistant to begin in Fall 2026. This will be an fMRI-forward position centered on intensive, naturalistic neuroimaging paradigms for language, conversation, and social-narrative videogame play. The lab manager will play a central role in coordinating with participants and leading fMRI data collection across multiple related projects. Beyond data collection, there will be opportunities to get involved in fMRI data analysis and computational modeling, particularly using large language models (LLMs) to study naturalistic language and social interaction. This position is well suited to someone interested in gaining experience with human neuroscience research while developing the computational skills that will make you a strong candidate for graduate school.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or a related field
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with careful attention to detail
• Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
• Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
• Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written

Nice To Haves

• Experience with fMRI and/or programming (e.g. Python) is a plus, but is not required

Responsibilities

• Coordinate participant recruitment, screening, scheduling, and study logistics
• Lead fMRI data collection for multiple related naturalistic neuroimaging studies
• Maintain research documentation, participant records, and data organization
• Contribute to data analysis and modeling depending on experience and interests
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Benefits

• USC provides benefits-eligible employees with a broad range of perks to help protect their and their dependents’ health, wealth, and future. These benefits are available as part of the overall compensation and total rewards package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED