Research Assistant

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

6d • $58,000 - $59,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Research in the Gaab Lab (www.gaablab.com) focuses on typical and atypical learning trajectories from infancy to adulthood with a special focus on language, reading, and math development and the role of the environment in shaping these trajectories. The lab specializes in developmental cognitive neuroscience within a preventive education and learning disability framework and has a strong translational aspect focused on policy. We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and structural MRI/ behavioral testing for several projects. This position is ideal for anyone considering future graduate study in cognitive (developmental) neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, and/or education.

Requirements

• Minimum two years related research experience (can be as part of the undergraduate degree). Relevant course work may count towards experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of research populations and/or techniques is required.
• Knowledge of basic research methods and statistical techniques required.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as needed is required.
• Any candidate wishing to be considered must supply a cover letter in addition to a resume and indicate meeting basic qualifications.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, demonstrable initiative, ability to work independently, and strong interpersonal and administrative skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high capacity to plan, organize and work as part of a larger team is required.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Ability to work well with pediatric populations (infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents).
• Commitment to producing high-quality work under tight deadlines
• Willingness and flexibility to collaborate with team members on diverse project tasks

Nice To Haves

• Prior knowledge of data processing methods is helpful.
• Prior experience with standardized testing is helpful
• Experience with coding and data analysis is preferred
• Prior experience in infant or toddler settings, camp counselor, coach or afterschool aid, or similar settings will be helpful

Responsibilities

• Collects magnetic resonance imaging data in individuals age 0-18. Collect project data, acquiring it through observation, structured interviews, library research, data processing methods, or other research methods
• Administer and score psychometric assessments pertaining to cognitive, language, reading and math development, including (but not limited to) the Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing, the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, the Woodcock Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities, the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test, the Wide Range Achievement Test, and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test. (15-20 hours/week)
• Communicate with families in order to recruit and schedule research participants.
• Record and/or code data according to project requirements and established protocols. Training will be provided but prior knowledge is helpful.
• Process, organize, and summarize data; report experiment results using a variety of scientific, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms
• Make periodic reports of project status to supervisor or other research team members
• May instruct other staff and students in basic research methods or techniques
• Assist in the design of experiments and tests
• Perform administrative duties incidental to research tasks
• Assists with data analysis and manuscript write-up. May present scientific findings at national and international conferences.
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed