Lab Manager

University of Chicago • Hyde Park, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Neuroscience Lab (ENL) at the University of Chicago is seeking a Lab Manager starting in the Summer of 2026. Environmental neuroscience is defined as the scientific study of brain-mediated, bidirectional relationships between organisms and their social and physical environments. The lab explores the influence of natural and built environments on neural processing, affect, cognition, health, and collective behaviors using neuroimaging methods (fMRI and fNIRS) and computational methods (machine learning, natural language processing, spatial analysis). This position is ideal for individuals interested in investigating how environmental factors affect brain processes and behavior, gaining research experience in cognitive neuroscience, and developing computational skills before applying to graduate school. Previous lab managers have been accepted into Ph.D. programs at institutions like the University of Chicago and Yale University. Lab managers have the opportunity to co-author publications and develop research skills beneficial for graduate school admissions.

Requirements

• College or university degree in a related field
• Less than 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, psychology, sociology, biology, physics, math, or other related fields
• Research experience in cognitive neuroscience, psychology, or another social science
• Strong computer programming skills (e.g., R, MATLAB, and/or Python)
• Self-motivated, independent, and reliable
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Responsibilities

• Generating research questions and hypotheses
• Conducting literature reviews
• Participating in team meetings focused on designing and executing research projects
• Implementing large-scale data collection using online survey tools (e.g., MTurk, Prolific)
• Designing and programming experimental stimuli (using Qualtrics, PsychoPy, etc.)
• Recruiting, testing, and debriefing human subjects for both neuroimaging (fMRI and fNIRS) and behavioral experiments
• Preprocessing and analyzing experimental brain and behavioral data (using R, MATLAB, Python, etc.)
• Preparing manuscripts for publication
• Providing support for lab personnel
• Organizing lab meetings and events
• Managing IRB approvals and amendments
• Writing grant updates
• Reporting on the lab’s use of computational resources
• Preparing and submitting expense reports
• Onboarding new hires
• Purchasing equipment
• Maintaining the lab website and social media accounts
• Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project
• Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator
• Performs other related work as needed

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree