The Research in the Neuroscience of Stress, Threat, Executive Function, & Motivation (NSTEM) lab investigates the effects of emotion and motivation on cognitive control in psychopathological disorders. Cognitive control is defined as the ability to adapt behavior flexibly to meet current demands by prioritizing task-relevant information and actions over extended periods, even when facing interference or competition. We use tools from cognitive affective neuroscience to explore our key questions, employing methods such as standard cognitive tasks under conditions of threat and safety, pupillometry, and functional neuroimaging techniques.

We are looking for a Research Specialist to join a NIMH-funded longitudinal study examining the neurodevelopment of emotional interference resistance. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting research protocols, work well both independently and as part of a team, and be detail-oriented. They must also be skilled in working with children, adolescents, and adults.

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

Screen participants using phone and in-person measures. Schedule participants’ assessments at appropriate time intervals. Administer research protocol at initial evaluation and follow-up evaluations including use of Qualtrics for questionnaires, administering fMRI and EEG protocols, and administering computer tasks. Provide support to data management staff – e.g., storing of data, data entry, data cleaning and data integrity checks. Assist investigators, graduate students, and postdocs with administrative tasks and some data analysis for papers/presentations by performing some aspects as needed. Assist with participant recruitment (posting ads in schools/hospitals/stores, newspapers, completing mailings). Attend and participate in all project-related meetings. Perform other duties as assigned and in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors. The ability to work independently and in a team structure and to effectively prioritize and complete tasks. To ensure that all assessments, and documentation are of the highest quality and legibility, and are completed in a timely fashion. High rate of success in contact and completion of assessments. Responsible for prompt identification of subjects for possible interventions based on research assessment results. Ability to complete duties effectively in a timely fashion with a high degree of accuracy. Ability to respond promptly to work requests as designated by supervisors. Flexibility in schedule to meet research deadlines.