Title: Research Fellow - Somneuro Lab

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Psychology and Brain Sci

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The Somneuro Lab (directed by Dr. Rebecca Spencer) at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst is seeking a full-time postbaccalaureate research assistant for an NIH-funded study of brain, sleep, and memory in young and older adults. The lab and program environment is rich and based in state-of-the-art research facilities. The Somneuro Lab broadly focuses on sleep’s role in memory across development and aging. We are particularly interested in neural mechanisms underlying sleep benefits to cognition and apply multiple tools to address these questions (MRI, EEG/polysomnography, behavioral assessments). See somneurolab.com for more details.

Essential Functions

Conducting experiments in young and older adults (MRI, behavioral, and sleep physiology data collection).

Data processing and analysis.

Training and supervising undergraduate students and project assistants
performing general administrative duties, including data management, scheduling meetings, and helping with purchasing and equipment maintenance.

Assisting with research protocols and compliance .

Contributing to data dissemination (poster presentations, manuscript submissions).

Other Functions

Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.

Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, or related field

Previous research experience with human subjects

Ability to work independently and keen attention to detail

Ability to interact warmly and professionally with participants.

Strong organizational, managerial, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated experience managing research assistants or other staff

Experience collecting MRI, EEG/polysomnography data

Strong computational and programming skills

Additional Details

The Somneuro Lab is in the Institute for Applied Life Sciences and the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences and part of the Neuroscience & Behavior Program at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Amherst, Massachusetts is in the beautiful western part of Massachusetts with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and scenery. Situated between Boston, Albany, and Providence, the lab offers many opportunities to attend lectures and workshops and visit labs in the New England region. The University of Massachusetts joins Amherst College, Mt. Holyoke College, and Smith College as part of the Five College Consortium, which facilitates academic exchanges between these neighboring institutions.

Review of applications will occur on a rolling basis. A 2-year commitment is preferred with the possibility of additional reappointment. Position contingent on funding.

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Sciences’ Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst’s For the Common Good: 2024–2034 Strategic Plan.

This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an indoor university environment and involves lifting and transporting materials or equipment and general physical activity, including prolonged standing, walking, or assuming low postures.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Salary Information

Annual Salary $41,600.00.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.