New

Human Research Technologist, Cognitive Neuroscience of Creativity Lab

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Mar 09, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS The Cognitive Neuroscience of Creativity Lab, directed by Dr. Roger Beaty at Penn State, is accepting applications for a Human Research Technologist. The Cognitive Neuroscience of Creativity Lab focuses on psychological research on human creativity and problem solving. Our lab uses a combination of behavioral, neuroimaging, and computational approaches to investigate the mechanisms underlying human creativity. We create open-access tools for evaluating creative thinking and examine creativity across a variety of domains, from everyday problem solving to science and education. The Human Research Technologist will play an important role in the lab's work by being responsible for the day-to-day management of the lab. Key Responsibilities: Recruit research participants through email, phone calls, and in-person interactions Create computerized tasks and stimuli for experiments Collect, process, and analyze behavioral, fMRI/fNIRS, and EEG data Track project goals and budgets; purchase necessary study supplies Oversee, train, and assign tasks to student and volunteer research assistants Create and manage datasets; prepare data for reporting and grant submissions The Human Research Technologist will receive training on programming (e.g., Python), creating psychological experiments (e.g., PsychoPy), and using AI tools (e.g., large language models and AI coding agents) to assist with experiment design, data analysis, and research workflows. Qualifications: Excellent interpersonal skills Demonstrated ability to work well with others Ability and willingness to learn MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Associate Degree 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None Application Information: Applicants must submit cover letter of interest, highlighting relevant skills, and a CV/resume. Visit our website to learn more about the work being done in the Cognitive Neuroscience of Creativity Lab. The College of the Liberal Arts is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $34,800.00 - $50,500.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines