Research Assistant
Vanderbilt University
Under the supervision of Dr. Humphreys, the Research Assistant will play an integral role in the day-to-day operations of multiple ongoing longitudinal studies. The Research Assistant will actively conduct data collection sessions with pregnant individuals, children, and families, including MRI and EEG acquisition, laboratory-based parent–child interaction assessments, home visits, and biospecimen collection. Beyond data collection, the assistant will contribute to participant recruitment and retention efforts, coordinate study visit scheduling across multiple protocols, assist with quality assurance through data auditing and management tasks, and support protocol development and refinement. This role provides opportunities to develop research coordination skills, including oversight of study timelines and enrollment targets, training and scheduling undergraduate and master’s student research assistants, and general administrative support for study operations. The position balances independent responsibilities with collaborative teamwork, allowing the assistant to build competencies in participant engagement, technical research skills, data management, and scientific problem-solving.
The Research Assistant will gain exposure to cutting-edge developmental neuroscience methods and clinical translational research. This position offers excellent research preparation and substantial responsibility and mentorship, making it ideal for individuals planning to pursue graduate programs in psychology, neuroscience, public health, or medical school. An ideal candidate would commit to a minimum of 2 years, allowing sufficient time to contribute meaningfully to study milestones and develop advanced research competencies.
Supervisory Relationships:
This position does have supervisory responsibility of undergraduate and master’s level research assistants; this position reports administratively and functionally to Dr. Humphreys.
Education and Certifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant academic area
Experience and Skills:
- Demonstrated experience conducting research data collection with human participants, with preferred experience in neuroimaging and EEG
- Experience working with pregnant individuals, infants, or young children in research or clinical settings preferred
- Strong participant-facing skills with ability to establish rapport, provide clear instructions, and create comfortable environments for sensitive or complex procedures
- Excellent interpersonal skills with warmth, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.