The NeuroCognitive Lab (directed by Dr. Tracy Riggins) at the University of Maryland, College Park, is seeking a full-time postbaccalaureate research assistant for an NIH-funded study of brain development, sleep, and memory in early childhood. This project, in collaboration with Dr. Rebeca Spencer (UMass, Amherst) will provide an opportunity to bridge domains of brain development, sleep science, and cognition.
The NeuroCognitive Development Lab broadly focuses on the co-development of the brain and memory in early childhood. We are particularly interested in mechanisms underlying sleep benefits to these domains and apply multiple tools to address these questions (MRI, EEG/polysomnography, behavioral assessments). See http://ncdl.umd.edu/research.html for more details.
Position details:
Responsibilities will include:
- conducting experiments in young children (MRI, behavioral, and sleep physiology data collection)
- programming scientific experiments and developing experimental stimuli
- analyzing behavioral, electrophysiological and neuroimaging data
- training and supervising undergraduate students and project assistants
- performing general administrative duties, including data management and maintenance of budgets, lab web pages and participant recruiting systems
- assisting with research protocols and compliance
- providing general support for the PI and other researchers in the (e.g., purchasing and maintaining lab equipment)
- contributing to data dissemination (poster presentations, manuscript submissions)
Minimum qualifications:
- bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, human development or related field
- previous research experience with human subjects
- ability to work independently and keen attention to detail
- ability to interact warmly and professionally with parents and children.
- strong organizational, managerial, and problem-solving skills are essential.
- reliable transportation
Preferred qualifications:
- demonstrated experience managing research assistants or other staff
- experience collecting MRI, EEG and/or PSG data
- strong computational and programming skills
The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. UMD is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected status in all aspects of employment. UMD is actively engaged in recruiting, hiring, and promoting underrepresented communities; minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
Review of applications will begin January 15, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. The position is set to begin April 1, 2023 (with some flexibility) contingent on available funds and a 2-year commitment is preferred with the possibility of additional reappointment. Interested individuals should email a cover letter/research statement, CV, and names and contact information of 3 references to Tracy Riggins at riggins@umd.edu. Please include all documents in a single pdf file and include your last name in the file (i.e., “LASTNAME.pdf”).