Data Manager

The lab in the University of Michigan Department of Psychology is seeking a full-time research assistant for a NIDA-funded research project. The aim of this research is to understand how ultra-processed foods impact reward-functioning, mood, and well-being using cutting-edge technology (e.g., neuroimaging, continuous glucose monitoring, ecological momentary assessment) and experimental designs with human subjects. Employees will receive training on these scientific methods.

The research assistant will work under the supervision of . They will join a team of graduate and undergraduate researchers and have opportunities to collaborate on numerous research projects focused on the impact of ultra-processed foods on mental health and well-being.

The research assistant will participate in various research-related activities, including running participants and collecting neuroimaging and mobile technology data, and organizing, analyzing, and managing lab duties. This position is suitable for candidates interested in growing a competitive research record for preparation for graduate school in clinical or quantitative psychology or in related fields of neuroscience, epidemiology, or public health. The research assistant will have opportunities to develop methodological, statistical, and writing skills.

Responsibilities*

• Running human participants through protocols (including neuroimaging, mobile technology, and experimental designs in simulated fast-food restaurant)
• Analyzing and processing data, organizing data, and archiving data. Working on projects to effectively manage large amounts of data and working with IT and other labs to design efficient
• IT systems for data and conduct analyses on data.
• Recruiting participants and screening participants for eligibility
• Train incoming research staff and students in the lab and be a resource throughout their employment
• Working with the research coordinator on evaluating research methods, procedures, and techniques based on established objectives
• Partnering with graduate students and undergraduates on research projects

NOTE: The amount of time in some of these activities (e.g., participant screening, training incoming research staff & students) will vary somewhat based on experience, time of the year, and lab needs). You will be expected to adhere to the highest ethical standards across all tasks and responsibilities., The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

• High school diploma or Associate’s degree
• 1-2 years of experience in a research environment, particularly with human subjects
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and time management skills
• Excellent communication and writing skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, * Bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably with a major or minor in statistics, computer science, applied math, or similar fields OR a degree in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field with a strong background in statistics and data management
• Interest in clinical psychology or neuroscience
• Experience with data cleaning, management and analysis using R and/or SPSS
• Experience with survey platforms (e.g., Qualtrics, REDCap)
• Willingness to travel to various on and off-campus locations for purposes of the research study

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off, including vacation time, sick time, holiday and season days
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

In addition, LSA offers:

• Strong commitment to work/life balance
• Flexible work arrangements with respect to campus stakeholder needs
• Enhanced tuition support programs for LSA courses

Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care - that’s the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It’s adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the ., The salary range is $33,000-$37,800. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate’s experience. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate’s experience.

This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is April - May 2026.

As one of the world’s great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.