Research Assistant I - Stolk

$47,840 - $47,840/Yr

Dartmouth College - Hanover, NH

Full-time - Entry Level

Hanover, NH

Educational Services

About the position

The Research Assistant I position at Dartmouth College is a 12-month term role focused on supporting research in the fields of psychology, neuroscience, computer science, cognitive science, or related disciplines. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of Principal Investigators and senior laboratory personnel to conduct experiments, analyze data, and assist in laboratory administration. This role requires a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness, reflecting Dartmouth College's values in its workplace environment. In this position, the Research Assistant will be responsible for conducting experiments by applying established methods and procedures. This includes programming and assisting with research protocols, setting up and troubleshooting experiments, and maintaining detailed records of activities and observations. The assistant will also report experimental results to the Principal Investigator and collaborate on developing modifications to techniques, ensuring all new methods are documented appropriately. Data collection and analysis are critical components of this role. The Research Assistant will summarize results, prepare progress reports for laboratory meetings, and create understandable representations of data, such as graphs and statistical summaries. Additionally, the assistant will contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts by drafting text and preparing visual data representations. Laboratory administration duties will also be part of the role, including maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the laboratory, assisting with equipment maintenance, and managing computerized records. The Research Assistant will also have the opportunity to instruct others in laboratory methods and provide technical guidance as needed. Overall, this position offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful research while contributing to a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments by applying established methods and procedures.
• Program and assist with research protocols and experiments under the guidance of Principal Investigators and senior investigators.
• Independently set up, perform, and troubleshoot less complex experiments.
• Observe experimental results and maintain written records of activities and observations.
• Report experimental results to the Principal Investigator and assist in their analysis.
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator in investigating and developing modifications to techniques.
• Document all new techniques developed in the laboratory.
• Collect and analyze data resulting from experimentation/testing.
• Summarize results and prepare progress reports for oral presentation at laboratory meetings.
• Prepare appropriate representations of data such as graphs, charts, and statistical summaries.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts by drafting portions of the text and preparing visual data representations.
• Conduct literature searches to assist in establishing new laboratory techniques.
• Accomplish day-to-day care and housekeeping of the laboratory.
• Assist in the maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Maintain computerized records associated with laboratory activities.
• Instruct others in laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with a major in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, cognitive science, or a related field.
• 1-2 years of relevant laboratory/research experience, which may include experience during undergraduate study.
• Competence in several laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques, including eye-tracking, MRI/fMRI, and electrophysiology.
• Ability to work independently and apply critical thinking and sound judgment.
• General programming skills.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of computers and software applications.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis software.
• Previous experience in a research setting during undergraduate studies.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage between $21.00 and $23.00 per hour.
• Access to Dartmouth College's resources and facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.