Research Assistant

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Requisition Number: S4954P
Home Org Name:
Psychological Sciences Division
College of Liberal Arts

Position Title:

Research Assistant
Job Class Code: HA01
Appointment Status:
Full-time / Part-time
FTE:
Limited Term Yes
Limited Term Length: 4.5 years

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, seeks 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).

Techniques include fMRI, ecological momentary assessment (EMA), and hormone and immune assays from blood samples.

• 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 presenting results to others.
• Assist in the preparation of research results for publication or presentation at conferences, including assisting in literature reviews and writing results and discussions.
• Instruct students and/or supervise others’ research in 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, 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 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. (This position is ideal for someone wanting to go to medical school or graduate school in a health‑related field, especially clinical psychology or neuroscience.)

Ability to use computers to conduct essential functions as requested, and to learn new software and programs as needed. Prior experience with fMRI, EMA, and/or psycho-physiological research are a plus, but not required.

• At least 2 semesters of research experience, or equivalent.
• Experience with any/all of the following: clinical populations; statistics; neuroimaging (particularly fMRI).
• Knowledge of other software/programs used…