Lab Name: Computation, Learning, & Development Lab
Supervisor Name: Kate Nussenbaum
Position Title: Research Technician / Lab Manager
Description:
The Computation, Learning, & Development Lab (Principal Investigator: Dr. Kate Nussenbaum) in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Boston University is seeking a full-time Research Technician / Lab Manager to start in July 2025.
Research in the (new!) lab will focus on understanding developmental changes in value-guided learning, memory, and exploration from childhood to early adulthood. We will use behavioral studies, computational modeling, and fMRI to address questions about how and why learning processes change over time and through experience, and what the consequences of those changes are for goal-directed behavior.
The Research Technician will be heavily involved in all phases of the research process while also helping to administer the day-to-day functioning of the lab. This position is ideal for a recent college graduate hoping to gain more research experience prior to pursuing a Ph.D.
Specific responsibilities will include:
- Helping to establish a fun, inclusive, and productive research environment.
- Administering the day-to-day functioning of the lab, which will involve spearheading participant recruitment, managing IRB protocols, and training new lab members.
- Designing and conducting online, eye-tracking, and fMRI experiments with human participants, including children and adolescents.
- Analyzing data and preparing findings for publication and presentation.
Required qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, or a related field.
- Previous research experience.
Preferred qualifications:
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Experience conducting empirical research in psychology or neuroscience.
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., R, python, julia, Matlab).
- An interest in the development of learning, memory, and decision-making.
- An interest in quantitative methodologies, including computational cognitive modeling and neuroimaging analyses (Note: experience with these methods is not expected).
- Experience with or an interest in working with children and adolescents.
Salary will be based on Boston University’s salary scales. Please note: The Research Technician will be required to work in person in the lab in Boston, and unfortunately, visa sponsorship for this position is not possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. Applicants who apply by December 20, 2024 are assured full consideration.
Applicaiton Process
To apply, please email the following to Kate Nussenbaum (katenuss@gmail.com):
- Cover letter stating your research interests and why you want to join the lab, highlighting your relevant experiences.
- CV or resume.
- Undergraduate transcript (unofficial is fine).
- Contact information for 2 or more references.
Please include “Research Technician Application” in the subject line of your email.