Research Asst position, UC Santa Barbara

Research Assistant Position Available: Junior Specialist, Spatial Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara.

 The Spatial Neuroscience Laboratory in the Department of Geography at the University of California, Santa Barbara, is seeking a Junior Specialist who will enable research as part of a team and, depending on experience level, may also provide some independent input into the planning and execution of the research. The Spatial Neuroscience Lab uses dynamic and interdisciplinary research methods to answer questions about how the brain processes information to keep us oriented as we navigate through a complicated world. Our primary techniques are fully immersive virtual reality and neuroscience brain imaging using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Electroencephalography (EEG). The position is ideal for recent graduates interested in pursuing graduate work in cognitive neuroscience, medicine, geography, psychology, or bioengineering as a way to gain experience and make scientific and scholarly contributions to neuroscience.

Duties: Primary research responsibilities include recruiting participants for experiments, preparing stimulus presentation scripts, data collection for neuroimaging and immersive virtual reality experiments, computer programming and configuring testing computers for behavioral testing, writing and editing code to process, analyze and visualize experimental data, and assisting the research team in processing and analyzing data from these experiments. Laboratory management responsibilities include training and supervising undergraduate research assistants, tracking study progress, and some administrative duties (e.g. IRB protocol management and overseeing lab operations).

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
· Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, geography, biomedical sciences, or a related field and previous research experience.
· The ability to work independently, efficiently, and comfortably in a multidisciplinary team environment; exceptional organizational and problem solving skills; attention to detail; excellent written and verbal communication; a strong work ethic.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
· Experience with any of the following is highly desirable: programming (particularly Matlab and python), neuroimaging analysis software (e.g. SPM, FSL, Freesurfer), statistical analysis software
(e.g. R, SPSS), experimental software (e.g. EPrime, Unity).

Initial appointment is for one year (beginning approximately September 1, 2016) at 100%, with a comprehensive benefit package. Continuation beyond one year will be based on performance and availability of funding. The salary is based on UCSB’s salary scales and dependent upon qualifications.

Applicants should submit: 1) cover letter describing your qualifications, research interests and career goals, 2) a current curriculum vitae, 3) contact information (including names, email addresses, and telephone numbers) for 3 references who can provide letters upon request.

Submit applications electronically at https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/apply/JPF00749

All application materials must be received by the close date of July 15, 2016.

For information on the Spatial Neuroscience Laboratory, go to http://people.bu.edu/chrastil/index.html

The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community through research, teaching and service. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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