Comestologist- Braider

Improving Electroencephalogram (EEG) Research for Black Individuals Position Description

The C.R.E.A.M. Lab is seeking a cosmetologist to be involved in the collection of electroencephalogram (EEG) data in individuals who identify as Black. The selected candidate will be paid hourly at a negotiated rate for their work on the project.

We need personnel who are experienced and skilled at working with Black hair to help us develop the best techniques for future EEG research and to ensure participants feel comfortable in academic research.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a technique used to measure brain waves using electrodes. These electrodes record the electrical signal along the scalp generated by the brain. Accurate recording requires electrodes to be placed close to the scalp and filled with electrically conductive gel to create a good connection. Coarse and curly hair can push back against electrodes, causing them to sit further away from the scalp and resulting in noisier connections.

Standard EEG caps, which are easy to apply, present additional challenges with longer, coarser hair. These issues have contributed to the over‑exclusion of Black individuals from academic EEG research.

Our group aims to design and test an electrode holder compatible with a common research‑grade EEG system that works well with Black hair. We also intend to create a guide of best practices for working with Black hair to disseminate to other researchers. The goal is to demonstrate that superior signal quality can be obtained in Black individuals with only minor modifications to the cap application process and hardware use.

The cosmetologist will be responsible for collecting EEG data from Black human research subjects in an EEG study. Responsibilities include training on all study procedures, applying EEG caps, administering tasks and questionnaires, and recording EEG neural data with specialized computer software.
No EEG experience is expected, only an interest in learning!

Cosmetologists will work with participants who have hair long enough to braid into cornrows, flat twists, or other rowed hairstyles best suited to the individual. They will braid the hair in a configuration that allows the electrodes to sit between rows, apply the EEG cap, and guide the participant through the study procedures. They will also provide hair washes for participants who request it after the session to remove all gel from their hair.