Research Assistant

Location: Cambridge, MA, us Employment Type: {'id': 'permanent', 'label': 'Full-time'}

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Graduate School of Education?

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and employees who are passionate about changing the world through education and striving for maximum impact in the field of education.

Many choose to work at the Harvard Graduate School of Education because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work, for our excellent leadership, and we are a strong community that values diversity. For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.

Job Description

Job Summary

Research in the Gaab Lab (www.gaablab.com) focuses on typical and atypical learning trajectories from infancy to adulthood with a special focus on language, reading, and math development and the role of the environment in shaping these trajectories. The lab specializes in developmental cognitive neuroscience within a preventive education and learning disability framework and has a strong translational aspect focused on policy.

We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and structural MRI/ behavioral testing for several projects. This position is ideal for anyone considering future graduate study in cognitive (developmental) neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, and/or education.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

1.    Collects magnetic resonance imaging data in individuals age 0-18. Collect project data, acquiring it through observation, structured interviews, library research, data processing methods, or other research methods

2.    Administer and score psychometric assessments pertaining to cognitive, language, reading and math development, including (but not limited to) the Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing, the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, the Woodcock Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities, the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test, the Wide Range Achievement Test, and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test. (15-20 hours/week)

3.    Communicate with families in order to recruit and schedule research participants.

4.    Record and/or code data according to project requirements and established protocols. Training will be provided but prior knowledge is helpful.

5.    Process, organize, and summarize data; report experiment results using a variety of scientific, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms

6.    Make periodic reports of project status to supervisor or other research team members

7.    May instruct other staff and students in basic research methods or techniques

8.    Assist in the design of experiments and tests

9.    Perform administrative duties incidental to research tasks

10. Assists with data analysis and manuscript write-up. May present scientific findings at national and international conferences.

11.  Other duties as assigned

This is a Term Position for one year from date of hire with the possibility of extension

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

Minimum two years related research experience (can be as part of the undergraduate degree). Relevant course work may count towards experience.

Demonstrated knowledge of research populations and/or techniques is required.

Knowledge of basic research methods and statistical techniques required.

Ability to work nights and weekends as needed is required.

Any candidate wishing to be considered must supply a cover letter in addition to a resume and indicate meeting basic qualifications.

Note: This is an on campus position located in Cambridge, MA.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

This position requires excellent organizational and communication skills, demonstrable initiative, ability to work independently, and strong interpersonal and administrative skills. Excellent attention to detail and a high capacity to plan, organize and work as part of a larger team is required.

Prior experience with standardized testing is helpful

Experience with coding and data analysis is preferred

Ability to work collaboratively and independently

Ability to work well with pediatric populations (infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents). Prior experience in infant or toddler settings, camp counselor, coach or afterschool aid, or similar settings will be helpful

Excellent attention to detail

Commitment to producing high-quality work under tight deadlines

Willingness and flexibility to collaborate with team members on diverse project tasks

Additional Information

Appointment End Date: One year from date of hire

Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $58,000 - $59,000

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit wor