RESEARCH SPECIALIST I

Psychological Sciences

Join the research community in the Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO, a vibrant group conducting cutting edge science in the field of alcohol and addiction.

The MU Learning and Memory Psychophysiology (LAMP) lab, directed by Dr. Roberto Cofresi, is a neuroscience lab investigating the role of learning and memory about rewards like foods, drinks, and drugs in human behavior. We use psychophysiological methods, especially EEG and fMRI, to study and localize the neurocognitive correlates of reward learning and memory as well as reward anticipation and consumption, including the post-ingestive consequences of drugs like alcohol. Our mission is to translate and verify basic and intervention-related findings from preclinical addiction neuroscience laboratories into the human laboratory and bridge the gap to clinical applications and testing.

We are seeking a motivated, organized, and driven research specialist to conduct a series of federally funded EEG and fMRI studies examining the role of conditioned cue reactivity and incentive salience in eating, drinking, and drug use with a focus on alcohol use.

You will work directly with Dr. Roberto Cofresi, Dr. Sandie Keerstock, and a small cohort of undergraduate research assistants. Visit the lab website at https://www.mulamplab.org/.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit, screen by phone or video call, and schedule prospective young adult participants for laboratory visits
• Conduct laboratory visits by administering liquid rewards such as alcohol or sugar and collecting EEG or fMRI and behavioral data
• Organize and maintain several databases, check data for accuracy, and coordinate coding and entering of research data into applicable and appropriate database
• Ensure compliance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) and sponsor/regulatory agencies
• Coordinate schedules and daily tasks and assist with training undergraduate research assistants
• Prepare and present progress report and monitor participant retention

Typically, Monday to Friday, 10 am - 6 pm, but evenings and weekends may be required depending on research participants' scheduling needs.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• 1-2 years of experience with human subject laboratory research with demonstrated ability to interact with human subjects respectfully, displaying strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and professionalism to foster a positive participant experience.
• Experience with neuroscience techniques (EEG, MRI, etc)
• Experience with experimental psychology/statistical software like E-Prime, REDCap, R, MATLAB.
• Attention to detail

Salary Range: $16.72 to $20.00/hour. This is a grant funded position.

Grade: GGS - 007

University Title: Research Specialist I

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

All applicants are expected to submit either a resume or CV, as well as a cover letter detailing their interest and how they will be a good fit for the position.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.