Research Specialist II

About the role

The Human Performance Team in the Rice Space Institute (RSI)’s Center for Space Technologies (CSTx) at Rice University, directed by Drs. Eduardo Salas, Jing Chen, and Rebecca Brossoit, invites applications for a Research Specialist.

The Research Specialist will be involved in interdisciplinary projects that apply human factors, human-robot interaction, human-AI teaming, and well-being research to human space exploration missions as part of a new Texas Space Commission‑funded project.

They will work collaboratively with the three PIs in the Department of Psychological Sciences and have opportunities to work with collaborators affiliated with NASA and Rice Engineering.

Ideal candidate: innovative and collaborative researcher in human factors, human-AI teaming, human-robot interaction, or occupational health psychology, eager to apply psychological science to the psychological demands of space missions and work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.

This is a one‑year term‑limited position with the possibility of extension based upon need and available funding.

Workplace Requirements: based on Rice University's campus in the Department of Psychological Sciences, located in Sewall Hall. Work performed primarily in an office or shared lab space; extended periods of computer work, with sitting or standing desk options available. Depending on the role, some duties may take place at partner sites