The Neural Enhancement of Learning Lab (NELL) (Dr. Katherine Aboud, P.I.) is seeking a highly motivated and self-directed Masters Level (MA) Research Assistant (RA), to assist the NELL to perform a wide variety of complex and independent activities to plan, organize, and conduct research investigating the neurobiological patterns of reading and learning using neuroimaging and non-invasive brain stimulation. This is a part-time (20+ hours/week) paid position, with compensation commensurate with Vanderbilt University’s RA stipend levels. The position will be supervised by Dr. Tess Fotidzis and Dr. Katherine Aboud.

The MA RA will assist with conducting various clinical research protocols, while assuring integrity and quality of the research is maintained and is conducted in accordance with Vanderbilt Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulations, federal and sponsor regulations and guidelines, Vanderbilt Policy and Procedure, and NELL research protocols. The RA will independently implement research protocols to assure study-related procedures are performed as required and objectives and timelines.

Duties and Responsibilities

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

Knowledge and understanding of the implementation, coordination, management, and reporting of research operations:

• Understand and accurately and compliantly perform the procedures required of each study protocol

• Work collaboratively with study participants, other NELL key study personnel (KSP), and departments, in safely and accurately performing study procedures:

• Study procedures include (but are not limited to):

• collecting sensitive participant data to determine eligibility;

• recruiting/consenting participants;

• coordinating, arranging & preparing study testing schedules and visits;

• collecting and maintaining current and accurate participant data records and storage (in compliance with IRB and Sponsor regulations and NELL SOPs)

• supporting the administration and collection of study research data, including paper/pencil tests, brain imaging, non-invasive brain stimulation;

• supporting data preparation and fidelity check processes of research data;

MINOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Serve as an advocate for human subjects by establishing and maintaining communication with Investigators, research staff, Sponsors, & participant:

• Successfully complete all CITI Training, Protection of Minors, Humans Participants of Research trainings, and the like, and adhere to all required compliance regulations.

• Engage in open communication with participants by providing them with contact information and being available to answer, address, or refer their questions or calls.

• Engage in weekly lab meetings, and other pertinent KSP and VU trainings and workshops, as applicable.

• Participate in data collection trainings with periodic fidelity checks

• Assist with other research lab and data collection related tasks and projects, as applicable

Qualifications

A post-secondary degree in a related field is required

Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of previous research experience or relevant advanced coursework is preferred.

• Exposure to neuroimaging methods, including fMRI, EEG and non-invasive brain stimulation, is preferred

• Experience with REDCap is preferred

• Experience with data management is preferred.

In addition, the ideal candidate:

o is observant, self-directed and a quick learner; o is thorough, accurate, organized, and productive; o exercises extreme attention to detail and caution; o is able to easily identify and correct errors or problems; o has excellent interpersonal skills, and communicates effectively; o is friendly, creative, and flexible; o can plan and organize effectively; o is able to navigate and manage complex projects with many moving parts o demonstrates an enthusiastic and motivated work ethic o delivers high-quality work

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

May be required to sit, stand, walk, reach, bend, or lift

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.

Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.