Research Assistant - Temp Co-op

About the Role

The Unit for Experimental Psychiatry, under the direction of Mathias Basner, MD, PhD, MScEpi, is an integrated group of scientific investigators focused on achieving creative and practical solutions to problems involving human health and safety in relation to noise, sleep need, circadian rhythms, work demands, fatigue, and vulnerability to emotional disturbance, memory distortions, and other sources of stress or discomfort.

The research currently performed by the Unit is supported by grants from the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Translational Research Institute for Space Health, and the National Institutes of Health.

Research Assistant positions are available for undergraduate work-study and student workers during the summer and academic year, providing hands-on experience for those interested in noise and sleep research. Offices are located on the 10th floor of Blockley Hall in the School of Medicine, with research studies conducted in the Chronobiology Isolation Laboratory and the Center for Human Phenomic Science.

Responsibilities

• Assist with hands-on research in noise and sleep studies.
• Perform data entry and analysis.
• Interact with research participants of diverse ages and backgrounds.
• Work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and 1-2 overnight shifts (Friday or Saturday) per semester as needed for in-lab research protocols.

Requirements

• Mature, dependable, and highly motivated.
• Organized and detail-oriented.
• Able to work independently and remain focused on tasks.
• Able to interact with people of all different ages and backgrounds.
• Available to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional overnight shifts.

Training is provided for new students.

Benefits

• Health and Life: Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
• Retirement: Generous retirement plans, including Basic, Matching, and Supplemental options with pre-tax or Roth savings. Investment options available through TIAA and Vanguard.

Note: Benefit eligibility is determined based on ACA guidelines.

Pay

$7.25 - $12.00 hourly. Salary offers are based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they relate to the position, aligned with external market data and internal peer data at Penn.

Schedule

• Available during the summer and academic year.
• Flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and 1-2 overnight shifts (Friday or Saturday) per semester.

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Perelman School of Medicine). A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made.