Research Assistant I Non-Lab

The research assistant for the Evolutionary Neuroscience Lab located within the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University will assist with collection and analysis of human, primate, and/or canine neuroimaging data. The lab studies how selection has shaped the brains and behaviors of different species. This position would involve contributing to studies of comparative neuroscience related to the evolution of behavioral adaptations like language, tool use, and other learned skills. The research assistant will work with a team of lab members to preprocess and analyze structural MRI data, diffusion MRI data, and resting state functional MRI data. The research assistant will also assist with training students on these tasks. Participation in behavioral and/or neurohistology studies is also possible, but not required.

• Following established protocols, collects project data, acquiring it through observation, structured interviews, library research, data processing methods, or other research methods.
• May perform related laboratory maintenance such as Preparing and executing preprocessing pipelines, including quality control.
• Processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms. Examples include executing neuroimaging analyses such as gray matter morphometry, white matter microstructure, diffusion connectivity, functional connectivity, and/or others.
• The research assistant will have the opportunity to attend lab meetings, contribute to research discussions, and participate in the general lab community.
• Other duties as required.

At least one year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

• Demonstrated knowledge of research populations and/or techniques helpful, but not required. Knowledge of basic research methods and statistical techniques preferred.
• Strong organizational abilities, excellent attention to detail.
• Effective professional communication skills for the purposes of coordinating with research team. members; must be able to work in a team with students and staff of varying skill backgrounds
• Prior experience with neuroimaging preprocessing/analysis.
• Prior experience with scripting and/or parallel computing.
• Willingness to learn new skills and to guide students in learning how to carry out neuroimaging preprocessing and analysis.
• An interest in evolutionary or comparative neuroscience.
• Familiarity with FSL, SBM, ANTS, and/or other neuroimaging analysis tools.

May be required to lift, move and transport related research equipment (25lbs)

This is a five month term position, with a targeted start date of February 1, 2025.

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.