Human Research Technologist - Cognition, Affect and Temperament Laboratory

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Cognition, Affect, and Temperament Laboratory, in the College of the Liberal Arts at the Pennsylvania State University, headed by Dr. Koraly Pérez‑Edgar, is seeking a full‑time Human Research Technologist.

The Human Research Technologist will have the opportunity to work on a NIMH‑funded study, investigating the association between parent‑child synchrony and emotion modeling on anxiety risk in children. In doing so, the lab incorporates a number of techniques, including fNIRS, mobile eye‑tracking, direct behavioral observation, and questionnaires.

This work will take advantage of the University’s broad resources, including the Child Study Center and the Social, Life, and Engineering Sciences and Imaging (SLEIC) Center.

This is a two‑site study in collaboration with Dr. Susan Perlman at Washington University in St. Louis. As such, study personnel at Penn State will have virtual cross‑site training opportunities.

Important Note
:
This position requires a flexible schedule to include working some evenings and weekends, primarily to accommodate the availability of participating families.

• Recruiting, scheduling appointments, and maintaining contact with children and their families (virtually or in‑person)
• Work with participants and their families to complete consent forms and collect in‑person data
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing behavioral, neural, and/or eye‑tracking data
• Handling the day‑to‑day activities in the lab, such as coordinating with the Institutional Review Board
• Disseminating data using a national data archive
• Coordinating with a large and dynamic team of researchers
• Work with undergraduate students who conduct research or assist in preparation of data; may assist in the interviewing, training, and scheduling of these students

Associate Degree. No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required certifications:
None.

• A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related field
• Experience in a lab that conducts behavioral coding, neuroimaging, or eye‑tracking studies
• Research experience with children

Applicants must upload a cover letter of interest, highlighting relevant skills, and a CV/resume.

Questions regarding the position may be addressed to Dr. Pérez‑Edgar at kxp
24.

The College of the Liberal Arts is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $31,600.00 – $45,800.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.