UPMC Jobs

We are hiring a Research Specialist in the NeuroScience of Threat, Executive Function, & Motivation (NSTEM) lab. Our lab focuses on understanding the impact of emotion and motivation on cognitive control in psychopathological disorders. Where we define cognitive control as the ability to flexibly adapt behavior to current demands, by promoting task-relevant information and behaviors over temporally-extended periods and in the face of interference or competition. We use to tools of cognitive affective neuroscience to address our primary questions including the use of standard cognitive tasks under conditions of threat and safety, pupillometry, as well as functional neuroimaging techniques.

The Research Specialist screening, assessing, and running potential participants diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorders who will be asked to complete a neuroimaging and ecological momentary assessment (daily diary) study that will take place over multiple sessions. An ideal candidate will have had prior experience running and preprocessing fMRI data; conducting diagnostic clinical assessments; be comfortable working in UNIX environment and with matlab code; and have excellent interpersonal and organization skills.

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

• Independently execute job functions for research protocol(s) including recruitment, scheduling appointments, obtaining written consent forms, collecting data by conducting phone or face to face interviews for research project(s).

• Collaborate with senior research personnel regarding recruitment, data collection, outcomes of interviews, reports according to the needs of the study.

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Psychology, Neuroscience, Sociology or related research field.

• Minimum of one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.

• Previous data collection experience with behavioral, eye tracking, and/or fMRI assessment preferred.

• Computer skills in data management, statistical analysis programs, or programming helpful, but not preferred.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings.

• Must have the ability to interact skillfully with clinical populations.

• Must have excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, interpersonal skills, and ability to prioritize among multiple tasks.

• Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.

• Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 33

• Act 34

• Act 73

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran