Duke University, Psychology and Neuroscience
Position ID:
Duke-Psych&Neuro-AIR_CABEZADAVISLAB [#31200]
Position Title:
Associate in Research
Position Type:
Other
Position Location:
Durham, North Carolina 27708-0999, United States of America
Subject Area:
Appl Deadline:
2025/12/31 11:59PM
**
** Position Description:
Position Description
Associate in Research
Mnemology Lab
Dr. Roberto Cabeza & Dr. Simon Davis
Center for Cognitive Neuroscience
Department of Psychology & Neuroscience
Duke University
Overview:
An Associate in Research position on the neural mechanisms of memory networks and representations is available in the Mnemology Lab, which is co-directed by Dr. Roberto Cabeza (Duke University) and Dr. Simon Davis (Indiana University). The Associate in Research position will be based at Duke University (Durham, NC) but will be co-supervised by both Dr. Cabeza and Dr. Davis.
Some studies focus on basic memory mechanisms in young adults, and some on the effects of aging on these mechanisms. The projects seek to improve our scientific understanding of memory function by investigating (a) the nature of mnemonic representations using cutting-edge representational similarity analyses (RSA) of fMRI data, and (b) the critical role of structural and functional connectivity using combined tractography and graph theory analyses. Our modeling of mnemonic representations uses the latest tools available to AI, including advanced neural network models and LLM approaches, to efficiently model semantic structures in images, concepts, and real-world stimuli. Applications to age-related pathologies including Alzheimer's disease and Dementia are also examined.
The Associate in Research will collaborate on current studies, assist in data collection and quality control, keep detailed records of participant testing and compensation, provide assistance in preparing protocols and paperwork related to neuroimaging research, and contribute to the conceptual development of new experiments within the scope of this and related projects. Approximately 70% effort will be dedicated to research duties, while 30% effort will be dedicated to regulatory & recruitment duties, in any calendar year.
Essential Duties:
1. Data collection
• Collect required study data which could include questionnaires, behavioral testing, demographic information, MR imaging, and clinical data from medical records and other sources.
• Independently maintain study-level and subject-level documentation.
• Participate in the development of recruitment flyers, study forms, questionnaires and study procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure all data collected is captured, collected and stored in the approved IRB and Duke required practice.
2. Data Analysis
• Perform neuroimaging research in Dr. Cabeza’s and Davis’ lab, focusing on representational analysis, as well as the structural and functional connectivity of the healthy and demented human brain.
• Coordinate and assist with database maintenance, data migration and data entry.
• Conduct computational analysis of brain data, including distinct models of tissue characteristics and longitudinal change.
• Assist with data coding, working closely with statisticians for data clean up and preparation for statistical analysis.
• Perform behavioral analyses on questionnaires, demographic information, and behavioral tests, and integrating these data with neuroimaging measures.
• Be able to work with a research team and manage study documentation.
3. Communication
• Communicate with other staff/students about issues/situations that may arise regarding study procedures.
• Assist PI with abstract, poster, and manuscript preparations and report writing.
• Assist PI in proofing new study materials and suggesting modifications in wording or order, providing feedback based on previous contact with research subjects and materials.
Qualifications
• Candidates with a BA/BS in any area of cognitive neuroscience broadly defined (e.g., Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or a related field) are welcome to apply.
• Ideal candidates will have
- experience with both standard neuropsychological and basic science behavioral testing
- strong computer programming experience (MATLAB, or python)
- familiarity with diffusion imaging analysis methods
This is a full time, grant funded position, eligible for all Duke benefits (https://hr.duke.edu/benefits) with an initial appointment of one year with the possibility of renewal, dependent on funding and performance.
Interested individuals should apply through Academic Jobs Online and include their resume, a cover letter and contact information for at least 2 references. Only applicants that have applied through Academic Jobs Online will be reviewed. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. If you are not able to upload your application materials or if letter writers would prefer to upload their letters directly, please complete your application and email those materials to Meghann Koffi at meghann.koffi@duke.edu to be uploaded manually.
Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two references (actual letters acceptable but not required, just names and email addresses )
Further Info: