Research Assistant

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Job Summary:

Research in the Gaab Lab (www.gaablab.com) focuses on typical and atypical learning trajectories from infancy to adulthood with a special focus on language, reading, and math development and the role of the environment in shaping these trajectories. The lab specializes in developmental cognitive neuroscience within a preventive education and learning disability framework and has a strong translational aspect focused on policy. 

We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and structural MRI/ behavioral testing for several projects. This position is ideal for anyone considering future graduate study in cognitive (developmental) neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, and/or education.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

1.    Collects magnetic resonance imaging data in individuals age 0-18. Collect project data, acquiring it through observation, structured interviews, library research, data processing methods, or other research methods

2.    Administer and score psychometric assessments pertaining to cognitive, language, reading and math development, including (but not limited to) the Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing, the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, the Woodcock Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities, the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test, the Wide Range Achievement Test, and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test. (15-20 hours/week)

3.    Communicate with families in order to recruit and schedule research participants.

4.    Record and/or code data according to project requirements and established protocols. Training will be provided but prior knowledge is helpful.

5.    Process, organize, and summarize data; report experiment results using a variety of scientific, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms

6.    Make periodic reports of project status to supervisor or other research team members

7.    May instruct other staff and students in basic research methods or techniques

8.    Assist in the design of experiments and tests

9.    Perform administrative duties incidental to research tasks

10. Assists with data analysis and manuscript write-up. May present scientific findings at national and international conferences.

11.  Other duties as assigned

This is a Term Position for one year from date of hire with the possibility of extension

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum two years related research experience (can be as part of the undergraduate degree). Relevant course work may count towards experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of research populations and/or techniques is required.
• Knowledge of basic research methods and statistical techniques required.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as needed is required.

Any candidate wishing to be considered must supply a cover letter in addition to a resume and indicate meeting basic qualifications. 

Note: This is an on campus position located in Cambridge, MA.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

This position requires excellent organizational and communication skills, demonstrable initiative, ability to work independently, and strong interpersonal and administrative skills. Excellent attention to detail and a high capacity to plan, organize and work as part of a larger team is required.

• Prior experience with standardized testing is helpful
• Experience with coding and data analysis is preferred
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Ability to work well with pediatric populations (infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents). Prior experience in infant or toddler settings, camp counselor, coach or afterschool aid, or similar settings will be helpful
• Excellent attention to detail
• Commitment to producing high-quality work under tight deadlines
• Willingness and flexibility to collaborate with team members on diverse project tasks

• Appointment End Date: One year from date of hire
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $58,000 - $59,000
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.