Getting involved

Research Coordinator Position

Position Description

The Human and Machine Learning (HaML) Lab in the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee seeks a full-time Research Coordinator to begin in May or June 2024. Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar contexts and new situations, using behavioral and neuroimaging data and model simulations. Responsibilities include conducting behavioral and neuroimaging studies, supervising and training undergraduate research assistants, and fostering connections with the broader Milwaukee community. This position is ideal for those interested in applying to graduate school and/or a career in experimental psychology or neuroscience, as it will provide hands-on training, a vibrant and diverse intellectual community within UWM’s Department of Psychology, and the opportunity to present at conferences and co-author publications.

The position has a duration of 1 year, with potential for a 1-year extension. The successful candidate will work primarily on site at UWM’s campus and at the Center for Imaging Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where scanning studies will be conducted. Individuals from all backgrounds are welcome to apply, and those from backgrounds unrepresented in science are especially encouraged to do so. Depending on the applicant’s experience, the salary will range from $46,000 to $48,000. The lab will also provide travel funding to attend one national conference per year.

Background

The HaML Lab studies how humans acquire and apply knowledge to make informed decisions in a complex and uncertain world. We aim to develop a comprehensive theory of human learning that takes into account memory limitations, motivation, and uncertainty, while explaining how memories are formed and transformed through memory consolidation. We use a combination of behavioral methods from cognitive psychology and neural measures obtained using neuroimaging, which are used to inform development of neurally informed machine learning models that mimic human behavior and brain activity. We ultimately aim to have an impact beyond the lab by informing understanding of memory problems and memory-related disorders such as PTSD. The HaML Lab, which started in Fall 2023, is directed by Neal Morton, PhD. See the research page for more information about Dr. Morton’s previous research.

Responsibilities

  • Assisting with participant recruitment and screening
  • Assisting with literature reviews, study design, and stimulus construction
  • Assisting with data collection from adult participants (ages 18–35), including behavioral and neuroimaging studies
  • Overseeing secure data management and assisting with behavioral and neuroimaging data analysis
  • Collaborating on conference presentations and manuscripts
  • Assisting with managing institutional review board (IRB) protocols
  • Assisting with day-to-day lab tasks, including ordering and maintaining supplies, communicating with other labs and community entities, and helping with website management

Benefits

  • Hands-on training in cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience research techniques
  • Experience and training in project management, data management, data science, data visualization, and science communication
  • Opportunities to present research at national conferences, network with leading neuroscientists, and publish research in high-impact journals
  • Professional development for graduate school or research positions
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
  • A supportive culture that encourages time off and a healthy work-life balance

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, or related field
  • At least one year related research experience
  • Knowledge of research concepts, practices, and procedures
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge of experimental methods used to study human learning and memory
  • Experience with study design, stimulus construction, and/or data management
  • Programming and data analysis experience (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB)
  • Experience with neuroimaging methods

How to Apply

Please fill out the application, including a cover letter explaining why you are interested in working at UWM in the HaML Lab and a CV or resume listing your relevant experience and skills. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Applications must be submitted by April 15.