Part-Time Research Assistant, PCAT Project

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking 2 undergraduate research assistants for Summer 2026 in the PCAT Lab. The role involves in-person data collection, conducting Zoom interviews, and equipment setup such as fNIRS, EEG, and mobile eye tracking.

Assistants will receive training in behavioral coding and data collection tasks. Candidates must complete background checks. This is a unique opportunity for students eager to gain research experience in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Ability to conduct interviews and collect data in-person.
• Experience with behavioral coding of interactions.
• Willingness to complete required background checks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-person data collection and Zoom interviews.
• Set up testing space and handle equipment.
• Code parent-child interaction tasks.

Skills

Data collection

Behavioral coding

Communication

Technical skills (fNIRS, EEG, etc.)

Teamwork

Tools

Slack

Google Calendar

Canvas

Microsoft OneDrive

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The PCAT Lab is recruiting 2 undergraduate research assistants for Summer 2026.

Research assistant will help with in-person data collection and behavioral coding. Data collection tasks include conducting Zoom interviews with parents, setting up the testing space, equipment setup (e.g., fNIRS, EEG, ECG, mobile eye tracking), and interacting with families. Behavioral coding tasks include coding parent-child interaction tasks, completing CITI Training, and utilizing Google Calendar, Slack, Canvas, and Microsoft OneDrive. Research assistants will receive training on data collection tasks, behavioral coding tasks, and handling equipment.

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.

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.