RA position studying emotion, cognition, brain in clinical populations

The lab of Dr. Ryan Smith focuses on understanding the cognitive, computational, and neural basis of emotion and decision‑making. The lab also tries to understand how these processes are affected in depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. This RA position consists of recruiting and screening participants, giving assessments, and guiding participants through experimental study protocols including decision tasks and MRI scanning.

It also involves data management and analysis, with the opportunity to contribute to posters and papers when other responsibilities are completed. A minimum commitment of at least 2 years is required.

Skills with programming and/or mathematics are not required, but would be considered a competitive advantage. A background in psychology is necessary. The start date would ideally be end of May or beginning of June 2025, but there is some flexibility.