Lab Assistant (Research Lab Tech I)

We’re recruiting a full-time lab tech to join the Shared Minds Lab at the University of Southern California. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on research experience before pursuing a PhD in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or a related field.

About the role

The Shared Minds Lab, led by PI Sam Nastase, is accepting applications for a full-time lab tech/research assistant to begin in Fall 2026. This will be an fMRI-forward position centered on intensive, naturalistic neuroimaging paradigms for language, conversation, and social-narrative videogame play. The lab manager will play a central role in coordinating with participants and leading fMRI data collection across multiple related projects. Beyond data collection, there will be opportunities to get involved in fMRI data analysis and computational modeling, particularly using large language models (LLMs) to study naturalistic language and social interaction. This position is well suited to someone interested in gaining experience with human neuroscience research while developing the computational skills that will make you a strong candidate for graduate school.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate participant recruitment, screening, scheduling, and study logistics
• Lead fMRI data collection for multiple related naturalistic neuroimaging studies
• Maintain research documentation, participant records, and data organization
• Contribute to data analysis and modeling depending on experience and interests

Requirements

We’re looking for someone who is organized, reliable, communicative, and excited about research.

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or a related field
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills with careful attention to detail
• Experience with fMRI and/or programming (e.g. Python) is a plus, but is not required

About the lab

The Shared Minds Lab studies how we communicate our thoughts to one another in real-world settings, with an emphasis on natural language, narrative, and social interaction. Our work combines neuroimaging with computational approaches for modeling rich, real-world stimuli and behavior. The lab manager will work closely with collaborators in the Phonetics and Phonology group, the Signal Analysis and Interpretation Laboratory (SAIL), and the Brain and Creativity Institute at USC, as well as collaborators in industry.

Pay

The hourly rate range for this position is $22 - $25.64. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer alignment, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Schedule

This is a 100% full-time, on-site/on-campus position. Anticipated start date: Fall 2026.

Benefits

To support the well-being of our faculty and staff, USC provides benefits-eligible employees with a broad range of perks to help protect their and their dependents’ health, wealth, and future. Learn more about USC’s comprehensive benefits.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
This position is grant-funded.