Research Assistant - Term

Position Summary:

This full-time research assistant position is part of the Mood, Emotion, and Development Lab housed in the Department of Psychology and Human Development at Peabody College at Vanderbilt University and is responsible for coordinating a clinical research study on predictors of adolescent suicidal behaviors after psychiatric hospitalization. Primary responsibilities will be recruiting and retaining research participants in acute psychiatric care, administering electroencephalogram (EEG) assessments, administering interviews to assess histories of suicidal thoughts/behaviors and implementing safety protocols, and ensuring complete and accurate data entry. The research assistant will report to the lab manager and lab director. The ideal start date for this position is May 18, 2026. 

 

About the Work Unit:

The mission of the Mood, Emotion, and Development Lab is to promote mental health and reduce the burden of mood disorders on children, adolescents, parents, and families. Our team is united in our values of rigorous science, teaching and mentorship, collaboration, and community engagement, welcoming diverse ideas and perspectives in an increasingly evolving society. If you are seeking a large and fast-paced team environment, opportunities for growth and challenges, and are passionate about contributing to high-quality translational research, we would encourage you to apply for this position.

 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Recruit and retain research participants in acute psychiatric care

• Lead electroencephalogram (EEG) assessments

• Administer interviews to assess histories of suicidal thoughts/behaviors

• Implement safety protocols

• Train students in study procedures and lab expectations 

• Check data for accuracy and completeness 

• Monitor and document payments made to research participants  

• Maintain organization of lab spaces and lab servers  

 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Lab Manager. 

 

Education and Certifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive studies, child studies, counseling, social work or a related field is required.

• A master’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive studies, child studies, counseling, social work or a related field is preferred.

 

Experience and Skills:

• Previous research experience working with human subjects is required.

• Experience working with children and families is required.

• Experience recruiting and scheduling participants is preferred.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is necessary.

• Experience training others is preferred.

• Experience with EEG methods is preferred.

• Experience administering clinical assessments and safety protocols is preferred.

• Experience with and detailed knowledge of REDCap is preferred.

 

Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit:

• Attention to detail 

• Flexibility with regards to planning and scheduling 

• Strong organization and planning skills 

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Ability to interact positively with research participants and fellow lab members 

Availability for study sessions on evenings and weekends 

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.