Research Assistant

About the Position

This is a two-year minimum term appointment, up to 4.5 years. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds. The College of Liberal Arts, Department of Psychological Sciences, is seeking a Research Assistant to join the AUBIE Lab.

The lab focuses on examining the neuroendocrine, immune, neural network, and genomic vulnerabilities that contribute to the clinical course and development of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). The lab uses techniques such as fMRI, ecological momentary assessment (EMA), and hormone and immune assays from blood samples.

The research assistant will work closely with Dr. Blaine on all aspects of running the research study, including planning and managing study protocols and logistics, collecting data, following up with participants, and scheduling participants. Opportunities for mentorship in conference submissions and manuscript writing will be supported.

• Conduct routine or fundamental experiments, investigations, and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques, and concepts.
• Assist with logistical considerations to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
• Collect data/samples related to others’ research and in routine cases. Record, compile, process and analyze data/samples.
• Document results and observations in writing as well as present results to others.
• May assist in the preparation of research results for publication or presentation at conferences, including assisting in literature reviews and the writing of results and discussions.
• May instruct students and/or supervise others’ research in the area of expertise.
• Collect, record, and process data related to research study procedures (obtaining informed consent, scheduling, conducting assessments, follow-up, etc.).
• Assist with the development of project proposals, research plans and protocols, supervise undergraduate research assistants, and assist with logistical considerations including materials and labor needs (e.g., assisting with IRB documentation).
• Monitor budget and grant funding and ensure expenditures are within specifications and in line with spending projections; may research, write, submit, and/or administer grants and proposals for submission.

• Life‑Changing Impact
  :
  Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence
  :
  We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You
  :
  Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama
  :
  The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top‑ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone
  :
  Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Psychology, Neuroscience, or a closely related field.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently.
• Exceptional attention to detail/conscientiousness.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally with study personnel.
• Ability to handle sensitive clinical data from participants.
• Ability to respond to constructive feedback and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Knowledge of fMRI, EMA, and/or psycho-physiological research is a plus but not required.

• At least 2 semesters of research experience or equivalent.
• Experience with any or all of the following: clinical populations; statistics; neuroimaging (particularly fMRI).
• Knowledge of lab software/programs (Microsoft Office/Word/Teams, Endnote, Qualtrics, R, Box, Psycho Py, FSL, etc.).
• Enthusiasm for the lab’s research topics.

$35,300‑$49,420

Research

Auburn, AL

Posting Date: 12/16/2025

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