Research Assistant - Term

Position Summary

This full‑time research assistant position is part of the Mood, Emotion, and Development Lab housed in the Department of Psychology and Human Development at Peabody College at Vanderbilt University. The role is responsible for coordinating and collecting data for studies of neural and physiological predictors of depression and related symptoms in youth and families. Primary responsibilities include recruiting and scheduling research participants and leading data collection, including electroencephalogram (EEG) and clinical assessments.

The research assistant reports to the lab manager and lab director. The ideal start date for this position is May 18, 2026.

The mission of the Mood, Emotion, and Development Lab is to promote mental health and reduce the burden of mood disorders on children, adolescents, parents, and families. Our team is united in our values of rigorous science, teaching and mentorship, collaboration, and community engagement, welcoming diverse ideas and perspectives in an increasingly evolving society. If you are seeking a large and fast‑paced team environment, opportunities for growth and challenges, and are passionate about contributing to high‑quality translational research, we encourage you to apply for this position.

• Lead EEG study sessions with research participants, including children, adolescents, and adults
• Administer clinical assessments
• Recruit and schedule research participants
• Train students in study procedures and lab expectations
• Check data for accuracy and completeness
• Monitor and document payments made to research participants
• Maintain organization of lab spaces and lab servers

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; it reports administratively and functionally to the Lab Manager and Lab Director.

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive studies, child studies, or a related field is required.

• Previous research experience working with human subjects is required.
• Experience working with children and families is required.
• Experience recruiting and scheduling participants is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is necessary.
• Experience training others is preferred.
• Experience with EEG methods is preferred.
• Experience administering clinical assessments is preferred.
• Experience with and detailed knowledge of REDCap is preferred.