Research Assistant I

The Michigan State University Social and Emotional Neurodevelopment (SEND) Lab is hiring a Research Assistant to begin Fall 2026. The SEND lab at MSU explores the neurobiological underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders in which disruptions in both affect and reward can have detrimental effects. The lab uses a combination of techniques in basic science and clinical research to better understand the functional disruptions in behavior in young children. These techniques include using highly-specialized behavioral software to code young children at play in a variety of field and laboratory settings and remote eye-tracking in these same children. For this project, the candidate will work on an NIH funded project that seeks to evaluate the impact of a maternal training program (Mediational Intervention for Sensitizing Caregivers) on the long-term mental health of Congolese children.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills and experience with:

• Eye-tracking methodology and analyses
• Computer programming
• MATLAB
• SAS or STATA
• Working as part of a cross-cultural team

Candidates with excellent research records, including publications, presentations, and awards, and demonstrated interest in neurodevelopment are preferred.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

CV, cover letter, and 3 letters of reference.

STANDARD 8-5

This is an off dated position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

http://phd.msu.edu

Advertised: May 20, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jun 2, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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