The Systems Neuroscience of Psychopathology laboratory at Harvard University (SNPlab) is seeking a Full-time Research Assistant (RA) for an exciting, large-scale project aimed at understanding how genes affect the brain to influence risk for addiction, aggression, and antisocial behavior.

Responsibilities

The RA’s primary responsibilities will include: (1) data acquisition using behavioral and neuroimaging techniques (MRI and radioligand PET); (2) data entry, data checking, and quality control procedures; and (3) subject recruitment and enrollment through community outreach and advertising.  Other responsibilities include serving as an interface among several collaborating lab groups in the Boston area, maintaining participant databases, scoring and processing data and assisting with administrative tasks.

Requirements

B.A., B.S. or equivalent with background in psychology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering or related field. Candidates should have proficiency with basic computing packages such as MS Word and Excel, and will be familiar with experimental presentation packages (e.g. E-Prime, Psychophysics Toolbox, Presentation) and standard statistical analysis software (e.g. MATLAB, R, SPSS).

Familiarity with neuroimaging data analysis (e.g. SPM, FSL, AFNI, BrainVoyager) will confer an advantage, as will prior experience with molecular genetics and/or bioinformatics, but neither are necessary to receive consideration. 

Strong interpersonal skills, prior research experience, high level of organization with careful attention to detail, and comfort with technical skills are absolutely required. This position requires a high degree of motivation and self-sufficiency, although extensive training and supervision will be provided.

Details

To apply, please email a brief cover letter describing relevant experience, research interests and career goals, CV and contact information to Dr. Joshua Buckholtz (Director, SNPlab) at [log in to unmask]

All formal offers will be made by Harvard FAS Human Resources.  This is a two-year term position that is based in the Department of Psychology, with renewal dependent upon continuation of funding. Expected start date: late summer 2011. This is an excellent and unique opportunity for a motivated individual to gain experience with cutting-edge neuroscience in preparation for a graduate career.