Project Assistant (Fixed-Term)

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. USC is consistently ranked among the nation’s most prestigious universities, and the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology features one of the world’s best degree and research programs in gerontology. The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has an international reputation as a hub of aging research and with additional strong programs throughout the university, leads the way in defining and advancing the field of gerontology: https://gero.usc.edu

The USC Emotion & Cognition Lab seeks a Project Assistant (1-year fixed-term) to join a dynamic research team currently studying the effects of heart rate biofeedback on emotion and cognition. This position would begin in early Fall 2025.

The Project Assistant will be responsible for administering MRI scan sessions, procuring and processing blood samples for all participants, managing the participant recruitment process, and more. The ideal candidate would be very reliable and professional, be an effective problem solver, have excellent organizational skills, and work successfully within a team environment. This is a great opportunity for individuals who are interested in a research career or Ph.D. studies in the future. For more information about our research, please visit our website: http://www.matherlab.com

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Administer MRI scan sessions.
• Procure and process blood samples from participants. Follow protocols for handling and transporting specimens.
• Actively recruit participants, through outreach efforts, initial contact, screening, and scheduling. Maintain data on recruitment activities.
• Assist with updating the study schedule.
• Assist with coordinating logistics for effective study management.
• Assist with data tracking and organization.
• Assist with preparing and maintaining research devices.
• Recruit and schedule research assistants.
• Calculate participant compensation.
• Assist with generating reports and other study documentation as needed.

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
• Minimum Experience: 1 year
• Knowledge of data collection procedures
• Experience with proposal preparation and production of technical documents

Preferred Requirements:

• Two or more years of relevant experience.
• Experience working with older adult populations.
• Previous experience with recruitment and community outreach for research studies.
• Current CPT license and phlebotomy experience or ability to receive certification.
• Bachelor’s degree particularly in social sciences, psychology, neuroscience, or related area. Combined experience/education as a substitute for minimum education.

This is a non-exempt position with work expected on campus and occasionally on weekends. Benefits include a competitive salary, and a rich array of USC benefits including healthcare (including dental and vision), 403(b), tuition reimbursement, national holidays, paid vacation, and more.

The hourly rate range for this position is $19.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

This position is funded by a research grant. Accordingly, your position is contingent upon receipt of the necessary funding from this grant to continue employment.

If you are interested, please submit your completed application, including a cover letter and resume with a minimum of two references. Thank you for your interest!

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent Minimum Experience: 1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Knowledge of data collection procedures and experience with proposal preparation and production of technical documents