Human Research Technologist - Psychiatry

The Pennsylvania State University; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

The Brain & Behavior Lab at Penn State College of Medicine seeks a full-time Human Research Technologist to support federally funded studies on social functioning, cognition, and neurophysiology, starting Summer 2026.

You will recruit and screen participants, administer assessments, ensure IRB compliance, manage data, and assist with dissemination. Opportunities to contribute to additional departmental projects and to work on a NIMH-funded study on social reward in adolescents.

Qualifications

• Associate degree required; no prior relevant work experience required.
• Preferred experience in psychology, mental health, or neuroscience.
• EEG/ERP data collection experience preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with neuroimaging tools like E-Prime desirable.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, screen, and schedule research participants.
• Administer study assessments according to established protocols.
• Ensure adherence to IRB, regulatory, and study-specific procedures.
• Perform data entry, management, and quality assurance.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and maintain protocol integrity.
• Assist with preparation of manuscripts, posters, and other research dissemination materials.

Skills

Psychology interest

EEG/ERP data collection

Neuroimaging familiarity

Education

Associate Degree

Tools

E-Prime

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Brain & Behavior Lab within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Penn State College of Medicine is seeking a full-time Human Research Technologist beginning Summer 2026. This position will support federally funded and investigator-initiated research examining social functioning, cognition, and neurophysiological processes across the lifespan.

Primary responsibilities will include supporting an NIMH-funded study on neurophysiological correlates of social reward in adolescents, with additional opportunities to assist on a study examining the effects of hormonal changes on cognition in perimenopausal women. Opportunities to contribute to other departmental research projects may also be available.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Recruit, screen, and schedule research participants
• Administer study assessments according to established protocols
• Ensure adherence to IRB, regulatory, and study-specific procedures
• Perform data entry, management, and quality assurance
• Troubleshoot technical issues and maintain protocol integrity
• Assist with preparation of manuscripts, posters, and other research dissemination materials

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Associate DegreeNo prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications:None

• Education and Experience
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Preferred)
• Experience or strong interest in psychology, mental health, or neuroscience
• EEG/ERP data collection experience preferred but not required
• Familiarity with programming software (e.g., E-Prime) or other neuroimaging techniques desirable.

Work Schedule

• Full-time (40 hours per week)
• Monday-Friday, with some evening hours required

Work Location

• In-office position
• Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic at 22 Northeast Drive, Hershey, PA

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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