Research Assistant - Kid Neuro Lab - Dietrich College

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 25,000 - 47,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Tuition benefits

Paid time off

Transit pass

Fitness center access

Job summary

The Kid Neuro Lab at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh (satellite zoo site in Rochester, NY) is hiring a part-time researcher to conduct behavioral studies with non-human primates using computerized touchscreen tasks. The role involves data collection, equipment maintenance, and analysis to support our origins-of-cognition research.

The position requires maintaining testing stations, programming and testing cognitive tasks, coordinating with zoo staff and CMU researchers, and ensuring

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, biology, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of research, research methodology, and/or data collection/analysis experience required.
• Experience with animals and especially non-human primates, behavioral research, programming (Python, JavaScript, MATLAB, R, or related languages), electronics, and automated testing systems is preferred.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Collect behavioral data from non-human primates participating in computerized cognitive experiments.
• Maintain and troubleshoot touchscreen testing stations, computers, software, and electronic equipment.
• Program, modify, and test cognitive tasks and experimental software.
• Organize, clean, and analyze behavioral datasets and summarize research findings.
• Coordinate research activities with zoo staff and CMU researchers, maintain experimental records, and monitor data quality.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Research experience

Behavioral research

Data collection

Python

JavaScript

MATLAB

R

Animal handling

Education

Bachelor's degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, biology, or related field

Tools

Electronic equipment

Testing systems

Job description

The Kid Neuro Lab at Carnegie Mellon University, directed by Dr. Jessica Cantlon, is hiring a part-time researcher at our satellite zoo research site in Rochester, NY. Our team studies the origins of complex cognition through comparative research across humans and non-human primates, with a focus on mathematical, spatial, and logical reasoning. The position involves conducting behavioral research with non-human primates using computerized touchscreen tasks, maintaining experimental equipment and software, and analyzing cognitive performance data.

Core responsibilities

• Collect behavioral data from non-human primates participating in computerized cognitive experiments.
• Maintain and troubleshoot touchscreen testing stations, computers, software, and electronic equipment.
• Program, modify, and test cognitive tasks and experimental software.
• Organize, clean, and analyze behavioral datasets and summarize research findings.
• Coordinate research activities with zoo staff and CMU researchers, maintain experimental records, and monitor data quality.
• Other duties as assigned.

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 psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, biology, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of research, research methodology, and/or data collection/analysis experience required.
• Experience with animals and especially non-human primates, behavioral research, programming (Python, JavaScript, MATLAB, R, or related languages), electronics, and automated testing systems is preferred.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.

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 from 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.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. Statement of Assurance.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function: Researchers
Position Type: Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term) Full Time/Part time Part time
Pay Basis: Hourly

Contact & Accessibility

For technical assistance, email HR Services or call 412-268-4600.

We are committed to providing an accessible experience throughout our recruitment process. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact Equal Opportunity Services by email at [e-mail] or by phone at 412-268-5072.