Overview

Research Specialist I/II

 

The lab of Dr. Yael Niv in the Princeton Neuroscience Institute and the Department of Psychology at Princeton University (www.princeton.edu/~nivlab) is seeking a bright and motivated full-time research assistant. Research in the lab focuses on computational modeling and model-driven functional imaging experiments of learning and decision making, with a particular focus on mental illness (computational psychiatry).

 

The position provides an excellent opportunity to further develop research skills in computational modeling and experimental analysis, and to learn about the psychology and neuroscience of learning and decision making as they apply to mental illness. The successful applicant will be an energetic, self-directed learner with strong programming abilities and a keen interest in the lab's research. Prior expertise with fMRI is advantageous but not necessary.

 

This is a one-year position with the possibility (and expectation) of renewal contingent upon successful performance and continued funding.

Responsibilities

Research Specialist responsibilities include;

• programming and running large-scale experiments on Amazon’s Mechanical Turk platform,
• designing and simulating models of learning and decision-making,
• involvement in fMRI experiments and in sophisticated behavioral and neural data analysis.
• The Research Specialist will also function as lab manager (managing the lab website, IRBs, etc.) with these non-research activities expected to take up no more than 1.5 days a week.

Qualifications

• B.A. or M.A. or equivalent in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, engineering or related field. 
• Proficiency in programming (Matlab or equivalent). 

All applications should include a cover letter stating background and professional interests, a CV, and contact information of two references.

 

This position is subject to the University's background check policy.

 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW

 

Salary GradeRSP, 020Standard Weekly Hours36.25Eligible for OvertimeYesBenefits EligibleYesEssential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)NoPhysical Capacity Exam RequiredNoValid Driver's License RequiredNo