Research Specialist-86782

The Center for Healthy Minds (CHM), a component of the Waisman Center, was founded and is led by neuroscientist Richard J. Davidson. CIHM's mission is to cultivate well-being and relieve suffering through a scientific understanding of the mind. CHM is a leader in rigorous, interdisciplinary basic and translational research aimed at understanding the mind and how to nurture well-being in ourselves and other. CHM communicates these findings to the world, inspires scientists to conduct further research and engages influencers to shift the culture to embrace well-being.

The Research Specialist will be responsible for scientific integrity of data collection, data processing, and participant screening and scheduling for the longitudinal Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. MIDUS is a national longitudinal study of health and well-being. The primary purpose of the study is to examine how individual differences in the neural bases of emotional reactivity, recovery, and sustaining processes relate to health and well-being throughout the lifespan.

Degree and area of specialization: A Bachelor's degree is required. A degree in Psychology, Neuroscience or a related field is preferred.

Minimum number of years and type of relevant work experience: Well-qualified applicants will have the following required experience:

· A minimum of 1 year of experience in a large human subjects' research laboratory. Relevant undergraduate experience may be considered.

Well-qualified candidates will have the following preferred work experience:

· Experience with community samples and/or minority or aged populations.

· Research experience in behavioral, psychophysiological and/or neuroimaging data collection, processing and analysis.

· Computer programming skills in Bash, Python, and/or MATLAB.

· Familiarity with FSL and/or Freesurfer.

· Familiarity with R or similar statistical programs.

· Experience using Windows, Mac, and Linux in a secure environment.

Principal duties:

80% Data Collection, Data Management, and Data Processing:

· Conduct data collection involving self-report, behavioral, neuropsychological, psychophysiological, and neuroimaging-based methods.

· Assist with data processing of self-report, behavioral, neuropsychological, psychophysiological, and neuroimaging data.

· Ensure the quality and integrity of data collection by performing periodic quality assurance checks, problem solving, and managing research supplies.

· Track all study participants and complete data collection logs.

· Train personnel in data collection procedures.

· Study team coordination and management of undergraduate student workers.

20% Research Participant Recruitment & Screening:

· Screen participants and coordinate their participation schedules.

· Provide additional information to potential participants as needed.

· Work with participants to facilitate travel arrangements and provide support to ensure study retention.

· Follow up with participants as necessary.

Additional Information:

· A criminal background check will be conducted prior to hiring.

· A period of evaluation will be required

· UW-Madison is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

· We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

· Please indicate in writing if you request that your identity be kept confidential. If you do not indicate your preference to remain confidential, the University may be required to disclose your identify and/or application materials. The identity of finalists and successful candidates will be revealed upon request. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).

TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION Application must be received by: JULY 06, 2016

In order to apply, please upload your resume and cover letter highlighting your qualifications for this position.

Applications must be submitted online at: https://uwjobapply.wisc.edu/Apply.aspx?pvl=86782

Stacey M. Schaefer, Ph.D. Waisman Laboratory for Brain Imaging and Behavior Center for Healthy Minds University of Wisconsin-Madison 1500 Highland Avenue Rm T127

(608) 263-9321