Research Assistant

Job Description:

This position will manage and contribute to Dave Sobel’s research on children's causal reasoning developing social cognition, parent-child interaction and learning. The Research Assistant will participate in all facets of the research program.

The incumbent will develop and implement study materials, help in design of online and lab experiments, recruit and research participants, schedule and test participants, monitor human subject compliance, program and manage on-line experiments through Qualtrics, and other software environments, operate and manage the lab's computer systems and apparatus for reach tracking. Further details include managing the lab web page and calendar, training and supervising undergraduate research assistants, and supporting graduate and honors students in data collection and analysis.

This is a 100% fixed-term position, renewable annually dependent on grant funding/research and satisfactory work performance.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Education or a related field is required

• 1-2 years of related research experience working with children (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)

• Familiarity with Qualtrics and statistical programming such as SPSS, R is necessary. Familiarity with Matlab or other programming languages (e.g., Python, C++) is a plus.

• Previous experience with developing experimental stimuli, design, planning and execution of empirical studies

• Expertise in data analysis, presentation, and reporting.

• Knowledge of research in cognitive development broadly construed.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and CV/resume.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more. Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-08-03

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences

Grade:

Grade 8

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite

Submission Guidelines:

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.  

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact [email protected].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.