Research Scientist

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit:

The Winston Center on Technology and Brain Development at the University of North Carolina conducts rigorous scientific research to understand the impact of technology on the developing mind and brain. Our research on the role of technology in brain development drives an international movement that prioritizes human wellbeing within human-tech interaction. As a pan-campus research center, we seek to facilitate transdisciplinary studies, discussions, and the dissemination of information to support work across multiple fields of study.

Position Summary:

The Winston Center on Technology and Brain Development is seeking a PhD level research scientist to assist the Director of Research with the Center’s research enterprise. The Winston Center conducts research examining young people’s engagement with digital technology, and how this engagement relates to their developing brain, socioemotional health, and psychological functioning. Amongst others, duties include:

• Manage, gather, analyze, review and report information for specific research projects.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and monitor adherence and documentation to ensure data integrity and accuracy.
• Manage operation of the Center including design and use of the physical space for experiment selection, implementation and analysis.
• Develop and perform statistical analysis of specific data and assist other researchers with similar studies.
• Manage the collection of data and the databases related to continually growing research projects, including developing and implementing rigorous quality control and quality assurance programs for multiple data sources.
• Lead hiring and supervision efforts for trainees, including undergraduate research assistants, research staff, and postdoctoral associates.
• Assist with administrative tasks central to research operations, including management of Institutional Review Board protocols and research materials and procedures.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

PhD in Psychology, Neuroscience or a related field

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

• Strong data analytic skills with experience in social science analytic software such as SPSS, Mplus, and/or R
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Exceptional data management skills with a high level of attention to detail
• Experience supervising trainees, such as undergraduate research assistants, post-baccalaureate staff, and/or graduate students