Research Specialist

The Cognitive Origins Lab studies non-invasive primate cognitive and child development research headed by Dr. Stephen Ferrigno.

The goal of our lab is to understand the evolutionary and developmental origins of human and non-human cognition. The laboratory tests the cognitive abilities (e.g., number representations, logical reasoning abilities, sequencing/grammar, and metacognition) of rhesus macaques and compares performance with children and adults. We will also be running studies looking at the cognitive developmental trajectory of infant and juvenile monkeys and human children. The broad goal of our lab is to understand the evolutionary and developmental origins of human and non-human cognition.

In addition to the administrative and testing duties (computerized and real object cognitive testing with primates, programming cognitive experiments, etc.), the position will include opportunities to develop new studies in collaboration with the PI and the possibility of becoming a co-author on manuscripts submitted for publication.

• 60% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• 10% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• 5% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• 10% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• 15% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers

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Required
Bachelor's Degree
Degree in psychology, animal behavior, or related field

Required Qualifications:
- Must have experience working with non-human animals in a research or behavioral/cognitive testing setting, preferably with non-human primates.
- Must have experience working with children in a research or behavioral/cognitive testing setting, preferably with non-human primates.
- Must have a strong interest in cognitive psychology and comparative cognition research.
- Must have fluency with the Windows/Mac OS and Microsoft office (including excel).
- Must have experience with data management, wrangling, and/or analysis.
- Must be able to work independently using initiative and good judgment.
- Must have strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Must have strong problem-solving and trouble-shooting skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience programming in any language is preferred but not absolutely required, although a strong self interest in learning these skills is required.
- Experience documenting procedures, events, or data preferred but not required.
- Experience with R, Python, Qualtrics, MTurk, and/or JavaScript is preferred but not required.
- Previous experience or skills in navigating bureaucratic, IACUC/IRB, and other formal documentation and permission systems is highly desired.
- Background/experience in statistics (preferably in R or Python).

Full Time: 100%

It is anticipated this position requires work be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location.

Terminal, 12 month appointment.
This position has the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding

Minimum $44,543 ANNUAL (12 months)
Depending on Qualifications
The typical starting salary for this position is $44,543 - $63,697 depending on qualifications and experience. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays and paid time off; competitive insurance and saving accounts; and retirement benefits.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.

This position is one year with the possibility of extension to 2 years.

Please click on the "Apply Now" button to start the application process.

Applications must be submitted by 11:55 pm on the deadline date. To apply, please upload a cover letter and resume. Your cover letter and resume should address how your skills, knowledge, and abilities are transferrable to this role. Additional materials submitted other than your cover letter and resume will not be considered.

Selected applicants will receive an invitation to participate in virtual interviews 7-10 business days following the application deadline. Those moving on to second round interviews will be invited to an in-person interview at UW-Madison. Once final applicants are identified, they will be asked to provide names and contact information for at least three professional references, including a current or former supervisor.

For questions on the position, contact: Steve Ferrigno at sferrigno@wisc.edu.

Cassie Wheeler
cassie.wheeler@wisc.edu
608-262-3739
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Research Specialist(RE047)

A48-COL OF LETTERS & SCIENCE/PSYCHOLOGY/PSYCHOLOGY

Academic Staff-Terminal

313689-AS