Research Assistant - Human-Computer Interaction / Behavioral Science

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join our innovative research team. If you're passionate about the intersection of human behavior and technology and thrive in a dynamic environment, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and behavioral sciences. You’ll work alongside a collaborative group of scientists to design, execute, and analyze human-centered studies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Study Design & Execution: Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of human-centered research studies using both quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Experimentation: Conduct experiments using advanced tools such as driving simulators, prototype vehicles, and augmented reality systems.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Develop experimental designs, create research materials (e.g., visual, auditory, and interactive stimuli), and manage behavioral datasets.
• Survey & Interview Administration: Administer questionnaires, surveys, and interviews to gather qualitative and quantitative data.
• Data Interpretation: Analyze and interpret complex data to generate actionable insights and research recommendations.
• Collaboration: Work closely with research scientists to refine study protocols, ensuring alignment with research objectives.
• Field Studies: Support data collection at race tracks and other field study sites as needed.
• Research Communication: Assist in drafting and editing research articles and reports to disseminate findings.
• Literature Review: Conduct literature reviews to identify gaps and inform study design.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, Human Factors, Cognitive Science, Psychology, or a related field.
• Experience:
• Proven experience in designing, conducting, and proctoring research studies.
• Strong background in both quantitative (regressions, ANOVA, T-tests) and qualitative research methods (interviews, thematic analysis, and coding).
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in data analysis and computational statistics using programming languages like Python or R.
• Familiarity with tools such as Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, and pandas dataframes.
• Experience with sensor, time series, or physiological data is a plus.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively give and receive constructive feedback.
• Attention to Detail: Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Teamwork & Independence: Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-disciplinary team.
• Learning & Initiative: Eager to learn new technical skills and take initiative in identifying research opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Understanding of basic data handling concepts and preprocessing techniques.
• Exposure to advanced hardware systems such as driving simulators or virtual/augmented reality systems.
• Ability to generate study stimuli (e.g., scenarios, animations, videos).

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking research at the intersection of behavioral sciences and technology.
• Collaborate with a passionate, multidisciplinary team.
• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality and prototype vehicles.
• Professional development and learning opportunities to advance your research skills.