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Research Assistant - Kid Neuro Lab - Dietrich College

Part-time

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PAPart-time / TemporarySeen 1w agoSeen in employer's feed 1 day ago

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At a glance

Compensation
No compensation found
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Role Type
Research
Schedule
Part-time / Temporary
Work Authorization
Not specified

Olive focuses on jobs in the United States, including remote roles you can work from there.

Job overview

The Kid Neuro Lab at Carnegie Mellon University is hiring a part-time researcher for its satellite zoo research site in Rochester, New York. The team studies the origins of complex cognition through comparative research with humans and non-human primates, focusing on mathematical, spatial, and logical reasoning. The researcher conducts behavioral experiments, maintains testing equipment and software, and analyzes cognitive performance data.

Skills & qualifications

RequiredNice to have

Skills

Animal Experience, nice to haveNon-Human Primate Experience, nice to haveBehavioral Research, nice to haveProgramming, nice to havePython, nice to haveJavaScript, nice to haveMATLAB, nice to haveR, nice to haveElectronics, nice to haveAutomated Testing Systems, nice to have

Qualifications

Bachelor's in Psychology, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Biology or Related Field, nice to have1+ Years Research Experience, requiredPre-Employment Background Check, required

Benefits

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Match
Tuition Assistance
Paid Time Off

Full job description

Pittsburgh, PA

Part time

2025330

The Kid Neuro Lab at Carnegie Mellon University, directed by Dr. Jessica Cantlon, is hiring a part-time researcher at our satellite zoo research site in Rochester, NY. Our team studies the origins of complex cognition through comparative research across humans and non-human primates, with a focus on mathematical, spatial, and logical reasoning. The position involves conducting behavioral research with non-human primates using computerized touchscreen tasks, maintaining experimental equipment and software, and analyzing cognitive performance data.

Core responsibilities include:

  • Collect behavioral data from non-human primates participating in computerized cognitive experiments.

  • Maintain and troubleshoot touchscreen testing stations, computers, software, and electronic equipment.

  • Program, modify, and test cognitive tasks and experimental software.

  • Organize, clean, and analyze behavioral datasets and summarize research findings.

  • Coordinate research activities with zoo staff and CMU researchers, maintain experimental records, and monitor data quality.

  • Other duties as assigned

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computer science, biology, or a related field.

  • 1-3 years of research, research methodology, and/or data collection/analysis experience required

  • Experience with animals and especially non-human primates, behavioral research, programming (Python, JavaScript, MATLAB, R, or related languages), electronics, and automated testing systems is preferred .

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/eligibility/index.html) employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/health-welfare/index.html) as well as a generous retirement savings program (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/retirement-savings/index.html) with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/tuition/index.html) , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/time-away/pto.html) and observed holidays (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/time-away/holidays.html) , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/work-life/support/family-child-care-resources/index.html) to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access (https://athletics.cmu.edu/recreation/facilities) , and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page (https://www.cmu.edu/hr/benefits/index.html) .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Part time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

Interested in a career with Carnegie Mellon University but not finding anything that currently aligns with your interests, background, or experience? Learn how to sign up for Job Alerts (https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/external-applicants.html#job-alerts) through your candidate profile.

If your heart is in your work, come work with us. Carnegie Mellon University isn’t just one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions – it’s also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference-makers on the planet. When you join our staff, you’ll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, you’ll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues – and you’ll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters.

We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, you’ll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni.

The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of what’s next. Apply now.

Learn more about Student Employment (https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/student-employment/index.html) .

Please see Faculty Careers. (https://www.cmu.edu/faculty-office/faculty-recruitment/faculty-careers.html)

For technical assistance, email HR Services ([email protected]) or call 412-268-4600.

We are committed to providing an accessible experience throughout our recruitment process. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact Equal Opportunity Services by email at [email protected] or by phone at 412-268-5072.

Prospective Employee Disclosures (https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/disclosures/index.html)

How this job compares

Set against the 647 open Research Assistant jobs on Olive Jobs, counted November 15, 2026.

Pay
  • This postingNot listed
  • US median$47–60K/yr77 salary ranges
  • Pennsylvania median$15–16/hr53 hourly ranges
Openings
Olive Jobs lists 179 open Research Assistant jobs in Pennsylvania and 647 across the US. 4% of them nationwide are listed as remote or flexible.
Hiring the most in Pennsylvania
Experience
This posting asks for at least 1 year of experience; Research Assistant postings that state a minimum ask for 1 year at the median (153 postings).
Education
189 of the 647 open Research Assistant jobs (29%) ask for a bachelor's degree or higher.

Counted across the open, public US postings on Olive Jobs on November 15, 2026. Figures based on too few postings are left out.

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