Mind / Brain / Behavior -- Interfaculty Initiative at Harvard University

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES        

IN MIND/BRAIN/BEHAVIOR



MBB encourages its students to consider becoming involved in research at some point in their undergraduate career. Being part of a laboratory or research program is one way of engaging in active learning, and Harvard offers a wide variety of opportunities for undergraduates to become involved in research.

As an interfaculty initiative, Mind/Brain/Behavior (MBB) does not have its own faculty and research programs as departments do. Instead, it serves as a clearinghouse for research opportunities for undergraduates. These opportunities are available to undergraduates in MBB tracks and the MBB secondary field but also often to students who are not in a formal MBB program but who have interests in mind, brain, and/or behavior.



RESEARCH ASSISTANT POSITIONS

NOTE: Specific Research Assistant positions are listed in the bottom section of this page.

All students are welcome to consult the research positions posted toward the bottom of this page.

The positions represent a wide variety of topics being studied by faculty and researchers from across the university. This page is updated frequently and each year includes dozens of positions for a wide variety of projects, although this is by not means an all-encompassing listing of all undergraduate research opportunities dealing with topics in mind/brain/behavior. Listings are largely for positions in labs and research programs in psychology (FAS) and at the Medical School, and also sometimes include positions in other FAS life science areas and at the Business School, the Kennedy School, and the School of Education. Positions in recent semesters have included opportunities to study neuroimaging, social cognitive development, intergroup relations, decision science, social cognitive and affective neuroscience, developmental medicine, cognitive neuroscience, aggression, perceptual studies, developmental disabilities, social psychology and law, and global child mental health.

Beyond the web listings, MBB Faculty, including the Board of Faculty Advisors (see bottom section of http://mbb.harvard.edu/undergrad/advising1011.php, are excellent sources of planning a research experience. Students are also very welcome to contact Education Program Coordinator Shawn Harriman (shawn_harriman@harvard.edu) to discuss identifying additional research opportunities and integrating research experiences into their academic program or career planning.



THESIS RESEARCH FOR MIND/BRAIN/BEHAVIOR STUDENTS

Some of the research assistant positions listed on the MBB website can evolve into thesis projects, as can work that students do in labs they have identified themselves or through their concentrations. Once they have identified a thesis project (in consultation with their concentration), MBB students may apply for research funding through the Mary Gordon Roberts MBB Summer Fellows program. This program allows students to spend the summer after the junior year undertaking thesis research, and both MBB track students and MBB secondary field students who are doing an MBB-related thesis are eligible to apply. Additional information on this MBB thesis funding is available at http://mbb.harvard.edu/undergrad/summerthesis1011.php.

A final research activity for students in MBB tracks are the spring thesis workshops. This is an opportunity for MBB seniors who have completed theses to present their research to a group of fellow MBB students from a variety of disciplines. Guided by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, these workshop groups help develop interdisciplinary presentation skills and foster research-based interdisciplinary discussions.



OTHER SOURCES FOR IDENTIFYING RESEARCH AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Harvard offers undergraduates a wide variety of opportunities for research and for funding research. The following are links to other programs most relevant to research in mind/brain/behavior.

Undergraduate Research at Harvard (excellent overview website) - http://undergrad-research.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do

OCS (Office of Career Services): Pre-Medical and Health Careers Information - http://www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu/students/careers/medicine.htm

information on related experiences, including research - http://www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu/students/careers/medicine/medicine_experience.htm

to sign up for OCS Health/Medical Careers e-mails - https://lists.fas.harvard.edu/mailman/listinfo/ocshealthandmedcareers

PRISE: Program for Research in Science and Engineering - http://prise.harvard.edu/

Herchel Smith Harvard Undergraduate Science Research Program (formerly SURF) - http://undergrad-research.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do?keyword=k71606&tabgroupid=icb.tabgroup138906

BLISS: Behavioral Laboratory in the Social Sciences - http://undergrad-research.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do?keyword=k71606&tabgroupid=icb.tabgroup123743

PRIMO: Program for Research in Markets and Organizations - http://www.hbs.edu/research/primo/

Science Research Opportunities Database - http://www.funding.fas.harvard.edu/science/search.cgi

HCRP: Harvard College Research Program (funds school-year and summer research) - http://www.seo.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do?keyword=k80947&tabgroupid=icb.tabgroup131543

Funding Sources Database (for research and other activities) - http://www.funding.fas.harvard.edu/



MIND/BRAIN/BEHAVIOR RESEARCH LISTINGS



Research Assistant Position: Sleep, Dreaming, and Memory (Dr. Erin Wamsley, Center for Sleep and Cognition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center) - summer and fall 2013

Dr. Erin Wamsley, at BIDMC’s Center for Sleep and Cognition, seeks motivated and responsible students interested in gaining hands-on research experience working on a study of sleep, memory, and dreaming. This summer, we are starting a new project examining factors that control the incorporation of memories into dream content. Students working on this project will have the opportunity to contribute to research at all levels, including study design, data collection, data analysis, and writing. As with many of our projects, this research will include the use of high-density EEG to map the neural correlates of dreaming and memory consolidation during sleep. An excellent opportunity for students with interests in neuroscience, psychology, consciousness and related topics. A minimum commitment of 12hrs/week is required, and as this project is a study of overnight sleep, some of this work will be late at night. Prior research experience is desirable but not required. Maturity, responsibility, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently are essential. Our lab offers a collegial environment, with many interesting ongoing projects in clinical and non-clinical populations. We are looking for students to start this Summer or Fall. For exceptional students, there is a possibility of continued involvement and/or thesis research. These are volunteer (unpaid) positions. For a sampling of our publications, see http://connects.catalyst.harvard.edu/Profiles/display/Person/63376. If you are interested, email a letter of interest and CV/resume to Dr. Erin Wamsley at EWamsley@bidmc.harvard.edu. (posted 5/2013)



Research Assistant Position in Sleep-Dependent Memory Processing in Schizophrenia (Prof. Dara Manoach, Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Psychiatric Neuroimaging Division of the Psychiatry Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA) - summer 2013

This volunteer opportunity will involve working on projects investigating the role of sleep in memory consolidation, how these processes go awry in schizophrenia, and the efficacy of interventions to normalize sleep and sleep-dependent memory processing. Our work has linked a specific cognitive deficit in schizophrenia (impaired sleep-dependent memory consolidation) to a particular mechanism (sleep spindles) and we have preliminary evidence of an effective intervention. In collaboration with Dr. Robert Stickgold’s lab at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, we are extending and expanding this basic and clinical research program using state-of-the art tools including high density EEG (polysomnography), magnetoencephalography (MEG), functional connectivity MRI, fMRI, and behavioral studies. Volunteer responsibilities include working closely with research coordinators to recruit and screen participants, assist with MRI scanning, complete data entry and scoring, and conduct short behavioral study visits. Volunteers should be comfortable with recruiting participants via phone and working with patients with schizophrenia. If you are interested please send a cv and contact information for three references to Tessa Vuper at tcvuper@nmr.mgh.harvard.edu. A work study arrangement may also be possible. (posted 5/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Developmental Psychology (Laboratory for Developmental Studies, Prof. Elizabeth Spelke, Psychology/FAS) - Summer 2013

Seeking motivated students to assist with research in Prof. Elizabeth Spelke's developmental psychology lab. Research in the lab is focused on exploring the basic cognitive capacities of infants, toddlers, and children, with an emphasis on the development of perception and knowledge. We are looking for students who are interested in volunteering in the lab for 15 to 20 hours per week. In the lab, research assistants will be responsible for recruiting and scheduling infant and child participants and their families, assisting lab researchers in testing infants and children, interacting with families when they come to the lab, coding infant looking time responses and toddler behavioral responses, and working with grad students to complete tasks specific to their research. We will be giving preference to students who can continue in the lab next fall or spring (we offer a course credit opportunity during the academic year), but all interested students should contact lab manager Ellyn Schmidt at eschmidt@wjh.harvard.edu. (posted 5/2013)



Research Assistant Position in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience (Drs. Charles Nelson and Brandon Keehn, Harvard Medical School / Boston Children’s Hospital) – summer 2013 and fall term 2013

The Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience, located in the Longwood Medical Area, are currently looking for a volunteer undergraduate research assistant to work on two separate studies investigating the development of attention. The first study examines the effects of responsive parenting and nutrition interventions on children in rural Pakistan. The second study investigates the role of attention in the development of autism spectrum disorder. Both projects utilize electrophysiological, eye-tracking, and behavioral measures to investigate attentional processes and brain development. The research assistant will gain familiarity with all of these research methods as well as have the opportunity to hands-on experience testing children. Responsibilities will include implementation of experiments with child participants and their parents, processing EEG and eye-tracking data, and coding behavioral measures. This position is ideal for anyone considering future graduate study in experimental or developmental psychology or cognitive neuroscience. Requirements: ability to work with children, familiarity with PC and Mac, self-motivated, and enthusiasm for developmental research. Experience with MATLAB and/or SPSS is helpful but not required. Applicants to this position must be able to commit at least 10-15 hours/week during the Fall semester, and there may be potential to continue in the Spring semester. Ideal applicants will be able to begin June 1st, 2013 and assist with studies over the summer. To apply, please complete an online application form and upload a statement of interest, along with a CV or resume to https://redcap.tch.harvard.edu/redcap_edc/surveys/?s=V6UudY. To learn more about the research conducted in our lab, visit our website at http://www.childrenshospital.org/research/brainworks. (posted 4/2013)



Research Assistant Position in Connectomics: Mapping Brain Connectivity (Prof. Jeff Lichtman, Molecular and Cellular Biology/FAS // Center for the Developing Child // Conte Center, Harvard University)

The new field of “connectomics’” aims to understand how brains behave at a level not previously possible—examining how entire brains are wired together, how wiring changes as brains grow up, and how interactions with the external world affect this wiring. The Lichtman Lab at Harvard University has pioneered tools to potentially map every connection in a complete brain and started to map the connectome in mouse brains. Now, in collaboration with the Center on the Developing Child, and as part of the Conte Center at Harvard, the lab is recruiting students to contribute to this mapping effort. Specific Duties: Students will use computer-based tracing tools developed with the latest in machine vision research to assist in reconstructing neural circuits imaged at nanometer resolution in order to build colorful, dynamic 3-D images of neural circuitry. In addition to helping reconstruct a visualization of the neural circuits they trace on the computer, students will be training the next generation of machine learning algorithms—which in the future will allow computers to further aid human tracing efforts. Connectomics image data sets are over 1000 Gigabytes in size and much of that data has never been seen by anyone. Thus, this is a unique opportunity to learn and possibly discover something entirely novel about brain circuitry. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see and operate the technology that produces nanometer scale connectomes, including electron microscopes. Required Education, Experience and Skills: The successful applicant will be meticulous and pay great attention to detail. Scientific knowledge and interest is helpful but not required; excellent visual acuity and the ability to trace accurately using computer tools are the most beneficial skills for this work. Interns will be trained to use the tools to identify and trace neural circuits. This position will be filled ASAP and will continue through 2012-2013 academic year. The successful candidate should be willing to dedicate 3-4 hours per week to the position. Duties will be conducted on the Harvard Cambridge campus in the Northwest Building. This unpaid position is open to high school students, undergraduates and graduate students. To Apply: Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to Lisa Haidar at lisa_haidar@harvard.edu. (posted 2/2013)



Intern Position in Child Development (Center for Public Policy, INSPER-Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa, Brazil) - summer 2013

The Center for Public Policy at INSPER-Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa in Brazil is looking to take on a Harvard undergraduate student as a summer intern. The candidate will participate in a research project on child development, utilizing longitudinal data from a sample of 5000 people who are from Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The work involves using databases, producing statistics and building tables. The candidate will also help organize the INSPER session of the Núcleo Ciência Pela Infância’s Executive Leadership Course, which takes place in São Paulo, Brazil from June 24-26, 2013. Opportunity Time Frame: Between June and August, 2013 (minimum 60 days). Fields of Interest: Business & Economics, Public Policy. Language Requirements: Fluency in English and an intermediate level of Portuguese. How to Apply: Interested students should fill out the following survey by April 30th, 2013: https://harvard.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_aXfbUimI8x2eA3H. (posted 2/2013)



Research Assistant Position in Brain Function in Aging (Prof. Jessica Damoiseaux, Department of Psychology / Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit) - full time starting June

The laboratory of Jessica Damoiseaux (http://www.iog.wayne.edu/profile/jessica.damoiseaux/) at the Department of Psychology and Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State University is inviting applications for a full‐time Research Assistant position, starting June 2013. The research focus of the lab is to examine changes in functional and structural brain connectivity, using MRI, and cognitive function in normal and abnormal aging. The position involves all stages of the research process, from planning a project to writing up the results, but the main focus is on data collection, management, and analysis. This position provides an opportunity to be involved in cutting‐edge neuroimaging research, and the launch of a longitudinal aging study. The successful applicant has excellent organizational skills, is detail‐oriented, reliable, and has good communication and inter‐personal skills. Experience with structural and functional MRI data analysis, neuropsychological testing, older research participants and/or patients with neurodegenerative diseases, is preferred but not required. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as: Cognitive Neuroscience, Psychology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, etc. Course work in psychology or cognitive neuroscience is preferred, as well as familiarity with UNIX operating systems, Matlab, SPSS, ePrime and Photoshop. Interested individuals should forward a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for three references, to damoiseaux@wayne.edu. (posted 1/2013)



IOP Director’s Internship in Early Childhood Education and Health Policy (Department of Social and Health Services, Washington State) - summer 2013

The Institute of Politics Director’s Internship program at Harvard’s Kennedy School, in collaboration with the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, is offering a paid summer internship to a qualified returning undergraduate to work at the Department of Social and Health Services in Washington state. The IOP Director’s Intern will work in Olympia, Wash., across multiple agencies, supporting policy development and implementation related to early childhood education and health. This position is a great opportunity for students who are interested in exploring a career in government, public policy, or advocacy. IOP Director’s Interns are responsible for completing 8-to-10 weeks of substantive work and will be fully funded by the IOP and the Center on the Developing Child. Visit http://developingchild.harvard.edu/activities/students_eld/student_employment_opportunities/#iop to learn more about this exciting opportunity. Eligibility: Returning Harvard College Undergraduates. Application Due Date: Feb. 10, 2013. Internship Location: Olympia, Washington. For more information: To learn more about this exciting and innovative IOP Internship, contact Amy Howell, IOP Director of Internships (amy_howell.harvard.edu, with any questions and application requirements. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Judgment and Decision-Making Studies (Professor Daniel Gilbert and Gus Cooney, Social Psychology) - spring term

Do we know what to talk about? Does fairness matter as much as we think it does? We are looking for students to work with us on two new research projects. Both projects look at social life, self-knowledge, and how we make decisions. More specifically, our research asks how our theories about communication shape (and misshape) what we choose to talk about. In addition, we are also investigating our perceptions (and misperceptions) of fairness in situations involving the distribution of resources. These projects are in various phases of development so opportunities exist at all stages of the scientific process—design, implementation, and data analysis. The time commitment is 10-12 hours per week; students may volunteer or receive course credit through Psych 2580r. Please contact Gus Cooney (guscooney@gmail.com) for more information. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Visual Recognition and Visual Memories (Prof. Gabriel Kreiman, Kreiman Lab, Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School) - spring term and summer

The Kreiman lab studies the circuits and mechanisms underlying visual recognition and memory formation. The lab welcomes undergraduate research assistants to join in the research efforts. Projects: There are several ongoing projects where students can participate including: (i) Quantitative behavioral studies of episodic memory formation; (ii) Computational modeling in visual recognition and memory; (iii) Studies of developmental of visual recognition capabilities; (iv) Neuroscience using movies as natural stimuli. What you can learn: Working in the lab is a great opportunity to learn Neuroscience, Psychophysics, Neurophysiology, Computer Programming, Quantitative data analysis, Theory and computational modeling in the brain. Requirements: Working at least 10 hours per week in the lab during the academic year (exact times and days are flexible). Working at least 30 hours per week during the summer. Location: The lab is located in the Longwood campus. Credit, money, volunteers: Most students who join the lab get academic credit for the research efforts. Alternatively, they can join as volunteers. Several MBB students who worked in the lab have successfully competed for a variety of different fellowships to continue to do research in the lab, particularly for those doing summer research. When: There are several open research opportunities including Spring 2013, Summer 2013; some of these research efforts can develop into thesis projects. Contact information: To enquire about these opportunities, email gabriel.kreiman@tch.harvard.edu. More information about the Kreiman lab can be found at http://kreiman.hms.harvard.edu. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Affective Neuroscience and Development (Prof. Leah Somerville, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

The Affective Neuroscience and Development Lab (ANDL) is seeking undergraduate research assistants for the Spring 2013 semester. The research objective of this lab is to understand how individual and developmental differences influence the processing of emotional cues. To inform this question, we conduct research with a variety of tools including behavioral (computer) studies, survey methods, physiological measures and brain imaging with fMRI. Our interest in development is especially focused on adolescence, a time of life associated with heightened sensitivity to emotional and social cues. Duties: may include working one-on-one with members of the lab; helping recruit, schedule, and test participants, including assisting with MRI scanning sessions (participants will include children, adolescents, and adults); helping design new studies; entering, tracking, and analyzing data; and helping conduct literature searches and discuss relevant research articles. Requirements: working at least 10 hours per week in the lab*; committing to staying in the lab for at least two semesters; and attending weekly lab meetings (meeting day/time to be arranged). * Please note: If you are helping collect data for research studies involving kids and adolescents, testing will sometimes take place during evenings and weekend hours. Research takes place at the Center for Brain Science and in our lab located in Northwest Science Building on the Harvard main campus. Background and Skills Required: Students should have taken at least one Psychology course and should be familiar with using computers. Experience with brain imaging, working with children and teens, and software like SPSS, Matlab, Excel, and EPrime are desirable but not required. People who do well in the lab are able to work independently, are interested in the work we do, and are good team players. Course Credit/Pay: RAs will normally take Psychology 2160r while in the lab. We also are happy to consider students who would like to volunteer in the lab. We do not have the means to pay undergraduates to work in the lab at the entry level, though paid lab work might be possible after spending a couple of semesters in the lab. To learn more: check out the lab website at http://andl.wjh.harvard.edu to familiarize yourself with the work we do. To apply: complete the undergraduate survey linked on http://andl.wjh.harvard.edu/participate and email it it to andl@wjh.harvard.edu. We will be in touch with you within 48 hours of receiving your survey to discuss eligibility and whether there is space in the lab. Thank you for your interest! (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Avian Cognition (Dr. Irene Pepperberg, Psychology/FAS and Brandeis University) - spring term and summer

Positions are available for training and testing Grey parrots on cognitive and communicative tasks. Volunteers will also have to do some general housekeeping (some feeding of the birds and some cage cleaning), depending on the time of day of their shift. Each position requires a minimum of 10 hrs/ wk commitment; more hours would be appreciated. The lab is staffed from 9AM to 7PM, seven days/week; volunteers who can do some weekend work would be particularly appreciated. The position will physically be in Waltham, at Brandeis University, where my lab is located; for students w/o a car, commuter rail via a connection w/ the Red Line at Porter Square; we can reimburse travel costs either through Harvard or if necessary The Alex Foundation. Some background in psychology or biology or animal research would be helpful; interest in psychology, biology or animal research is necessary. We are currently investigating concepts of absence, relative size, and number. We are also open to suggestions for additional projects. If interested, contact my lab manager, Suzanne Gray, at suegray@brandeis.edu and tell her that you saw the ad at Harvard. Note that Harvard students can apply for summer support through the Harvard College Research Program. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Social Psychology: It's Not the Same without You: The Power of Making Experience Shared (Professor Daniel Gilbert and Bethany Burum, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

What happens when purely personal experience becomes shared? Do we attend to the experience differently? Enjoy it more? Remember it differently? We are looking for students to work with us on an exciting new research program examining shared experience. Our research probes how merely believing that someone else knows about or shares our experience affects that experience, both in the moment and in memory. Research assistants will participate in all stages—from design, to implementation, to data analysis—learning and contributing to the entire research process. The time commitment is 10-12 hours per week; students may volunteer or receive course credit through Psych 2580r. Please contact Bethany Burum (burum@wjh.harvard.edu) for more information. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Adolescent Trauma (Professors Katie McLaughlin and Margaret Sheridan, Boston Children's Hospital / Harvard Medical School) - spring term

An experienced, independent, and organized individual is sought for a part-time Research Assistant position working. The individual in this position would assist with a neuroimaging study examining the impact of exposure to trauma on neural structure and function in adolescents. The study involves one EEG study session and one fMRI study session on a sample of adolescents with and without exposure to trauma. This position would be an excellent fit for applicants interested in obtaining doctoral training in neuroscience, clinical psychology, or developmental psychology. Principal duties include: 1) assisting with the administration and support of research projects and activities, including participant recruitment, and the development of surveys, flyers, project information sheets, and other study materials; 2) assisting in data collection through active interaction with adolescent participants, including telephone screening interviews, in-person interviews, and EEG and fMRI data acquisition; and 3) conducting pre-processing and analysis of EEG, structural MRI, and fMRI data. Previous research or clinical experience with children is preferred as is ability to work in command line environments such as Unix or Linux operating systems. Time commitment of 8-10 hours per week is anticipated. Work will be divided between Boston Children’s Hospital on Harvard’s Longwood campus and the Center for Brain Science on Harvard’s main campus. Most RAs receive course credit for their work in the lab. To apply, email Professor McLaughlin at Katie.McLaughlin@childrens.harvard.edu. (posted 1/2013).



Research Assistant Positions in Memory Studies (Professor Daniel Schacter and Kevin Madore, Schacter Memory Lab, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

Why do younger and older adults often remember and imagine differently? Do certain memory mnemonics and techniques boost performance? Cripple performance? How does emotion impact our memory and imagination? We are looking for research assistants to work on behavioral and neuroimaging projects related to memory and imagination in both college students and older adults (65+). You will have the opportunity to assist with experimental research in a hands-on way, including but not limited to design, data collection, and data analysis. Specific tasks may include interviewing younger and older adults using different protocols, coding interviews for different characteristics, or programming with different software packages. You can participate by signing up for course credit (2358r) or by volunteering at 10 hours a week. This opportunity is perfect for those interested in learning more about experimental research, memory and imagination, or working with different populations. You will have the opportunity to observe fMRI scanning sessions if that is of interest to you. No background experience is necessary but we ask that you be diligent and excited about psychology. You will work under Professor Dan Schacter and Kevin Madore (a grad student in Dan’s lab). Email Kevin at madore@fas.harvard.edu if interested. Please include a sentence or two about why you want to work in the lab. We’re excited to meet you! (posted 1/2013)



Fellowship in Developmental and Computational Social Neuroscience (Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine) - full-time, paid post-graduation position (begins June 2013

The Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic at the Yale Child Study Center in the Yale School of Medicine is interested in recruiting highly qualified students from Harvard for an exciting new pre-doctoral fellowship for current graduates or graduating seniors. The position will commence June 2013 and will be 2 years in duration. The Yale Child Study Center is a leading institution for research on autism and related social disabilities, with a multidisciplinary approach to autism research spanning projects in behavioral neuroscience, neuroimaging, molecular and population genetics, and treatment. Successful applicants will be involved in a 2-year training program involving clinical research experience. Fellows will be responsible for assisting in a variety of research activities in the lab and for completing experimental protocols with infants and toddlers and their families. With research mentorship, selected applicants will be expected to guide a pre-determined project of research from the point of data collection through analysis and publication of results. Interested students should send materials no later than February 20th, 2013 in order to be considered for the position. Additional information can be found on our website http://childstudycenter.yale.edu/autism/fellowship/developmental-computational.aspx. Questions regarding the Yale Fellowship in Developmental and Computational Social Neuroscience may be directed to Dr. Suzanne Macari at suzanne.macari@yale.edu. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Memory Consolidation and Sleep (Dr. Edwin Robertson, Center for Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation / Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center) - spring and/or summer 2013

Seeking enthusiastic volunteer student research assistants to aid in several projects related to “off-line” learning and memory consolidation in the laboratory of Dr. Edwin Robertson at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Possibility to conduct a senior thesis is also available if interested. Description of Research: Student research assistants will have the opportunity to assist in two projects. The first project seeks to understand and determine the types of changes in sleep architecture that might be caused by non-invasive human brain stimulation. Specifically, particular features of human sleep such as sleep spindles are associated with neuroplasticity and enhanced learning and memory consolidation. It may be possible to enhance human learning by altering sleep architecture with brain stimulation techniques. This project would be particularly well suited for someone with background/interest in time-series analysis/computer programming expertise. The second project seeks to better understand the mechanism responsible for generating memory schemas. Specifically, forming a schema may come with the cost of memory interference. This work could deepen our understanding of schema formation and provide a novel perspective on memory interference. This project would be particularly well suited for someone interested in memory, willing to take on a project that has some intellectual risk and is able to think about memory organization in an unusual way. Duties: Student research assistants will have the opportunity to aid in all aspects of the projects, including: study design, participant recruitment, data collection and analysis. Specifically, students will have the opportunity to learn how to record and analyze EEG, as well as how to conduct several cognitive tests. Students will be required to commit to a minimum number of hours per week depending on the project and the lab’s needs. This may require working evening hours for sleep projects. Requirements: Previous laboratory experience in psychology or neuroscience is not necessary, however we are looking for students who are willing to learn, independent, personable, and detail-oriented. To apply: If interested, please contact Edwin Robertson (emrobert@bidmc.harvard.edu) with your CV. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Cognitive Development (Laboratory for Developmental Studies, Prof. Susan Carey, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

Seeking motivated students to assist with research in Prof. Susan Carey’s developmental psychology laboratory. Employment opportunities are available for course credit and work-study. Learn state of the art research methods that provide a window into the minds of infants, toddlers, and children. Duties center around working on a project with a primary researcher, and include: recruiting and scheduling child participants and their families, testing children in the lab or at daycares, data analysis, and aiding in the design of new studies. An interest in and ability to work with young children is essential, and previous experience is a plus. Students must have a minimum of 8-10 hours a week to commit to the lab, and a two semester commitment is preferred. RAs may work for course credit (1655r) or work-study. This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested specifically in the field of developmental psychology, but also in psychological research more generally. If interested, please contact Rebecca Distefano at 617-384-7918 or e-mail distefan@wjh.harvard.edu. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in Cognitive Development (Laboratory for Developmental Studies, Prof. Elizabeth Spelke, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

Seeking motivated students to assist with research in Prof. Elizabeth Spelke's developmental psychology lab. Research in the lab is focused on exploring the basic cognitive capacities of infants, toddlers, and children, with an emphasis on the development of perception and knowledge. We are specifically looking for students to work in the lab for course credit (1652r). Research assistants work in the lab for 10 hours per week and attend weekly course meetings during which grad students discuss their research interests and the current state of their research projects. Throughout the semester, students have the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of research topics within developmental psychology. Additionally, each student is paired with a grad student in the lab and learns about that grad student's current research in depth. In the lab, research assistants will be responsible for recruiting and scheduling infant and child participants and their families, assisting lab researchers in testing infants and children, interacting with families when they come to the lab, coding infant looking time responses and toddler behavioral responses, and working with grad students to complete tasks specific to their research. This course is open to students of all concentrations and there are no prerequisites. The weekly course meeting time is TBD and students' schedules will be taken into consideration. If interested, please contact lab manager Ellyn Schmidt at eschmidt@wjh.harvard.edu. (posted 1/2013)



Research Assistant Positions in the Study of Inequality and Ideology (Prof. Jim Sidanius and collaborators, Laboratory in Intergroup Relations, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

The Lab: Members of the Sidanius Lab in Intergroup Relations are a collection of scholars interested in the interface among intergroup relations, conflict, inequality, social hierarchy, power, status, stereotyping, racism, ideology, identity and prejudice. The goals of the lab group are to examine the social psychology of intergroup relations from an integrative and multi-disciplinary perspective, producing research that speaks to real world social and political issues. The lab is based in William James Hall. Our website can be found at http://projects.iq.harvard.edju/sidaniuslab. We Want You: The Sidanius Lab is seeking a set of strongly motivated Research Assistants to support its varied research program during the Spring 2013 semester. Research Assistants are welcome either on a volunteer basis, or for course credit (by enrolling in Psychology 2570r). RAs are required to commit to a minimum number of hours per week depending on their enrollment and the lab’s needs. Research Assistants are also invited to attend and participate in weekly lab meetings in which we discuss the lab’s research. Lab meetings are required for RAs enrolled in 2570r, but are optional for volunteers. If interested, Research Assistants may be invited to present and receive feedback on their own research ideas. To apply for a Research Assistant position: contact Rachel Arnett (rachel.arnett@gmail.com) with your CV, as well as details on which projects interest you most, and why. (posted 12/2012)



Research Assistant Positions in the Study of Identity (Prof. Jim Sidanius and collaborators, Laboratory in Intergroup Relations, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

The Lab: Members of the Sidanius Lab in Intergroup Relations are a collection of scholars interested in the interface among intergroup relations, conflict, inequality, social hierarchy, power, status, stereotyping, racism, ideology, identity and prejudice. The goals of the lab group are to examine the social psychology of intergroup relations from an integrative and multi-disciplinary perspective, producing research that speaks to real world social and political issues. The lab is based in William James Hall. Our website can be found at http://projects.iq.harvard.edu/sidaniuslab. We Want You: The Sidanius Lab is seeking a set of strongly motivated Research Assistants to support its varied research program during the Spring 2013 semester. Research Assistants are welcome either on a volunteer basis, or for course credit (by enrolling in Psychology 2570r). RAs are required to commit to a minimum number of hours per week depending on their enrollment and the lab’s needs. Research Assistants are also invited to attend and participate in weekly lab meetings in which we discuss the lab’s research. Lab meetings are required for RAs enrolled in 2570r, but are optional for volunteers. If interested, Research Assistants may be invited to present and receive feedback on their own research ideas. To apply for a Research Assistant position: contact Rachel Arnett (rachel.arnett@gmail.com) with your CV, as well as details on which projects interest you most, and why. (posted 12/2012) Research Opportunities:

Research Assistant Positions in the Study of Power and Status (Prof. Jim Sidanius and collaborators, Laboratory in Intergroup Relations, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

The Lab: Members of the Sidanius Lab in Intergroup Relations are a collection of scholars interested in the interface among intergroup relations, conflict, inequality, social hierarchy, power, status, stereotyping, racism, ideology, identity and prejudice. The goals of the lab group are to examine the social psychology of intergroup relations from an integrative and multi-disciplinary perspective, producing research that speaks to real world social and political issues. The lab is based in William James Hall. Our website can be found at http://projects.iq.harvard.edu/sidaniuslab. We Want You: The Sidanius Lab is seeking a set of strongly motivated Research Assistants to support its varied research program during the Spring 2013 semester. Research Assistants are welcome either on a volunteer basis, or for course credit (by enrolling in Psychology 2570r). RAs are required to commit to a minimum number of hours per week depending on their enrollment and the lab’s needs. Research Assistants are also invited to attend and participate in weekly lab meetings in which we discuss the lab’s research. Lab meetings are required for RAs enrolled in 2570r, but are optional for volunteers. If interested, Research Assistants may be invited to present and receive feedback on their own research ideas. To apply for a Research Assistant position: contact Rachel Arnett (rachel.arnett@gmail.com) with your CV, as well as details on which projects interest you most, and why. (posted 12/2012) Research Opportunities:

Research Assistant Positions in Programming (Html and Java) the Study of Inequality and Ideology (Prof. Jim Sidanius and collaborators, Laboratory in Intergroup Relations, Psychology/FAS) - spring term

The Lab: Members of the Sidanius Lab in Intergroup Relations are a collection of scholars interested in the interface among intergroup relations, conflict, inequality, social hierarchy, power, status, stereotyping, racism, ideology, identity and prejudice. The goals of the lab group are to examine the social psychology of intergroup relations from an integrative and multi-disciplinary perspective, producing research that speaks to real world social and political issues. The lab is based in William James Hall. Our website can be found at http://projects.iq.harvard.edu/sidaniuslab". We Want You: The Sidanius Lab is seeking a set of strongly motivated Research Assistants to support its varied research program during the Spring 2013 semester. Research Assistants are welcome either on a volunteer basis, or for course credit (by enrolling in Psychology 2570r). RAs are required to commit to a minimum number of hours per week depending on their enrollment and the lab’s needs. Research Assistants are also invited to attend and participate in weekly lab meetings in which we discuss the lab’s research. Lab meetings are required for RAs enrolled in 2570r, but are optional for volunteers. If interested, Research Assistants may be invited to present and receive feedback on their own research ideas. To apply for a Research Assistant position: contact Rachel Arnett (rachel.arnett@gmail.com) with your CV, as well as details on which projects interest you most, and why. Research Opportunities:

Research Intern Position in Biobehavioral Aspects of Pediatric Pain (Prof. Laura Simons, Medical School / Boston Children’s Hospital) – Spring 2013

The Biobehavioral Pediatric Pain Lab is seeking undergraduate research interns to begin in Spring 2013 with the potential to develop research projects for an undergraduate thesis. The primary focus of the lab involves the assessment and treatment of psychological aspects and neural underpinnings of chronic pain in children and adolescents with chronic pain. The position will span projects that involve questionnaire, physiological, and brain imaging data. The research assistant will gain familiarity with several psychological and neuroscience research methods, with an effort to match interests with current projects. Responsibilities may involve implementation of experiments, subject recruitment, data entry, and some analysis. Some evening hours may be required. This opportunity is ideal for someone considering graduate study in clinical psychology, neuroscience or medical school. We are looking for a motivated, enthusiastic and organized individual. Knowledge of SPSS and/or unix command line navigation is helpful, but not required. Must be able to commit at least 10 hours per week in the Spring semester, with the potential to continue for the following academic year. To apply, please send a statement of interest, along with a CV or resume to Laura Simons at laura.simons@childrens.harvard.edu. (posted 11/2012)



Research Assistant Position in Social Cognitive Development (Prof. Felix Warneken, Psychology/FAS) - spring 2013 positions

Interested in getting research experience? Like kids? Help out next semester in the Warneken Lab conducting developmental psychology research! The Warneken lab is seeking motivated students to assist with research focused on cooperative behaviors and social cognitive development in young children. In particular, we study how children start to engage in altruistic helping and how they share resources with others. We study a broad age range, from toddlers to school-aged children, to better understand how these behaviors emerge over development. To learn more about the Warneken lab focus, please see our website https://software.rc.fas.harvard.edu/lds/research/warneken/warneken. Research Assistants will gain experience and exposure to a variety of research activities, including: testing children in the lab, at schools, and in parks in Boston & Cambridge, recruiting and scheduling child participants and their families; data analysis (including advanced video coding technology); and aiding in the development of new studies. An interest in psychology and working with children is essential, and previous experience is a plus. Students must commit to working 10 hours a week in the lab; Research Assistant positions may be eligible for course credit, work-study, or internship opportunities. We are currently looking for freshmen and sophomores who are interested in the course credit option, but anyone may apply. To apply, fill out the application form (click here) and email it, along with a copy of your resume or CV, to lab manager Kerrie Pieloch at kpieloch@wjh.harvard.edu. (posted 11/2012)



Research Assistant Position: Psychophysiology of Intergroup Prejudice and Racism (Prof. Jim Sidanius, Psychology/FAS) – Fall 2012 and Spring 2013

The Sidanius Lab studies the social psychology of intergroup relations, inequality, and prejudice. We are currently seeking a set of highly motivated Research Assistants to support an ongoing project in Fall 2012 and Spring 2013. The study uses classical conditioning methods to study fear of outgroups. We measure fear using psychophysiological measures (galvanic skin responses) and implicit measures (the Implicit Association Test). This is an excellent opportunity for people who are interested in advanced research designs, gaining advanced experience as an experimenter, and basic data scoring. To apply for this Research Assistant position, please contact Rachel Arnett ( rachel.arnett@gmail.com) with your CV. (posted 10/2012)




Office of Career Services Health & Medicine Career Page

Here you can find a collection of internship and job opportunities for Harvard Undergraduates, as well as links to information regarding application and job search techniques.


Disclaimer: In some cases, the information contained on this webpage was prepared by a third party and has not been independently verified by Harvard or MBB. We do not endorse any particular organization or service described on this page. Harvard makes no claim to the reliability of this information nor is it liable for any loss or damage, direct or indirect, relating to your use of this website, including your use of the information or services described on this page. These listings are not part of the MBB undergraduate program. You may want to speak with your academic advisor if you are uncertain whether a particular position best fits your needs and goals.


News and Events

CONGRATULATIONS to the MBB Class of 2013! - click here for a list of our upcoming graduates

UPCOMING DEADLINES
June 14th: Faculty Awards for 2013-2014 due - click here for details
June 14th: Faculty Interest Group Proposals for 2013-2014 due - click here for details

2013-2014 COURSES - click here to link to a draft list of next year's course offerings