Research Assistant - CMU Laboratory for Multisensory Neuroscience (LiMN) - Mellon College of Science
Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our extraordinary institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce versatile alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration.
The CMU Laboratory for Multisensory Neuroscience (LiMN) is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to conduct analyses of fMRI data and contribute to ongoing research in the lab. The LiMN group (led by faculty members Dr. Barbara Shinn-Cunningham and Dr. Abigail Noyce) study attention and working memory using both behavioral/psychophysics and neuroimaging techniques.
The LiMN research group is affiliated with the Neuroscience Institute, the Department of Psychology, the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and at Carnegie Mellon University.
Core Responsibilities
- Working with participants to gather data during in-person experiments using fMRI, EEG, and/or other research equipment, including learning new skills and procedures.
- Organizing and managing research documentation in accordance with group and university policy.
- Assisting with data management, analysis, and visualization, and with scientific communication.
- Other research support as needed.
Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with basic principles of vision, hearing, and experimental design. Familiarity with basic principles of fMRI and EEG neuroimaging.
- Computational and programming skills, including fluency in at least one of Python (preferred), R, or Matlab. Comfort with basic data processing and statistical analysis.
- Previous research experience with in-person human subjects.
- Training or experience in experimental presentation software (PsychoPy, PsychToolbox, Gorilla, or others).
- Ability to work independently, with keen attention to detail.
- Ability to identify skill or knowledge gaps and independently address them.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
Requirements:
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
ResearchersPosition Type
Staff – RegularFull Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
HourlyMore Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field
- Familiarity with vision, hearing, and experimental design principles
- Familiarity with fMRI and EEG neuroimaging principles
- Fluency in at least one of Python, R, or MATLAB
- Comfort with basic data processing and statistical analysis
- Previous research experience with in-person human subjects
- Training or experience with experimental presentation software such as PsychoPy, PsychToolbox, or Gorilla
- Ability to work independently with keen attention to detail
- Ability to identify skill or knowledge gaps and address them independently
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background check
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.





