Research Assistant - Cognitive Axon Lab - Dietrich College

About the role

The Cognitive Axon Lab (PI: Timothy Verstynen) invites applications for a full-time Research Assistant. Initial appointment will be for 1-year, with additional years contingent upon performance and availability of funding. Position can start as soon as November 1, 2026. The Cognitive Axon Lab is housed in the Department of Psychology at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. Collectively our research is on the interface between neuroscience, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence, studying how observers use sensory information that is incorporated into the decision making process during foraging. This is a full-time, paid position with benefits.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with behavioral and human brain imaging experiments on foraging behaviors in virtual environments
• Work closely with be responsible for providing various forms of research-related support, including recruiting participants, behavioral, fMRI, data collection, payment of human subjects, and data maintenance.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• B.A. or B.S. degree in psychology, statistics, neuroscience, computer science, decision science, or other related fields
• 1-3 years of experience in research, research methodology, and/or data collection experience required
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Skills

• Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.
• Ability to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity.
• Shares our values and will support the mission of the university through their work.
• Prior research experience in data collection and analysis (particularly of fMRI data)
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects, and the ability to work effectively in both teams and independently

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
• Tuition benefits
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
• Access to Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs
• Fitness center access

Pay

Pay Basis: Hourly

Schedule

Schedule: Full time