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"Research Specialist I"

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Research Specialist I

Staff

April 19, 2026

Location

Princeton

Princeton University

Type

Full-time (1-year term, possible extension)

Salary

$41,000 to $60,000

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, physics, math, or computer science
Basic computer skills (programming a plus)
Excellent references emphasizing organization and teamwork
Pass MRI safety screening

Research Areas

Non-human primate cognition
Electrophysiological recordings
Micro-stimulation
MR imaging
Behavioral tasks
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Research Specialist I

Overview

The Neuroscience of Attention & Perception (NA&P) Laboratory (led by Dr. Sabine Kastner) at the Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, is seeking a research assistant to work as a full-time Research Specialist to assist researchers performing non-human primate (NHP) studies. The successful candidate will work in the NHP branch of the laboratory, which studies neural mechanisms of cognition in the primate brain using a wide range of experimental neuroscience techniques, including electrophysiological recordings, micro-stimulation, MR imaging, and behavioral approaches.

This position is ideally suited for a candidate who plans on future graduate school studies in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field. We are seeking an extremely motivated candidate who is interested in both animal care and scientific research.

This is a 1-yr term position with the possibility of extension contingent upon continued funding and satisfactory performance.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of this position are to:

  • work closely with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students to train macaques on behavioral/cognitive tasks
  • assist lab members with data analyses, MRI imaging, and surgical procedures
  • assist in management of the animal colony (in close collaboration with the veterinary staff and lab manager)
  • perform other lab duties as assigned

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, physics, math, computer science or a related field is required.
  • Basic computer skills are required, programming skills are considered a significant plus.
  • Must have excellent references that highlight the candidate’s experience, organization skills, and willingness to work as part of a research team.
  • Successfully pass MRI safety screening.

This position is subject to the University's background check policy.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Standard Weekly Hours: 36.25

Eligible for Overtime: Yes

Benefits Eligible: Yes

Probationary Period: 90 days

Salary Range: $41,000 to $60,000

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the essential qualifications for this Research Specialist I role?

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, physics, math, computer science, or related field. Basic computer skills are required, with programming skills considered a significant plus. Excellent references highlighting organization and teamwork are essential, plus passing MRI safety screening. Ideal for those pursuing graduate studies in neuroscience or psychology. Explore similar research assistant jobs.

🔬What are the primary responsibilities in the NA&P Laboratory?

Work closely with postdocs and students to train macaques on behavioral/cognitive tasks, assist with data analyses, MRI imaging, and surgical procedures. Manage the animal colony with veterinary staff, and perform other lab duties. Focuses on neural mechanisms of cognition using electrophysiology, micro-stimulation, and behavioral methods. See research jobs for related opportunities.

💻Is programming experience required for this position?

No, but programming skills are a significant plus alongside required basic computer skills. The role involves data analyses support in a neuroscience lab studying primate cognition. Check research assistant tips or research assistant jobs for skill-building advice.

📅What is the duration and benefits of this Research Specialist position?

This is a 1-year term position with possibility of extension based on funding and performance. 36.25 weekly hours, overtime eligible, benefits eligible after 90-day probation. Salary range: $41,000-$60,000. Perfect stepping stone for graduate school in neuroscience. View staff jobs for more.

🌍Does Princeton University offer visa sponsorship for this role?

Visa sponsorship is not mentioned in the posting. U.S. work authorization is typically required for Princeton staff positions. Confirm during application. Background check required. Princeton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Learn about higher ed jobs and application tips via academic CV guide.

🧪What experience is ideal for success in non-human primate studies?

Motivation for animal care and scientific research is key. Prior experience with macaque training, electrophysiology, or MRI is beneficial but not required. Strong teamwork and organization highlighted in references. Read research role success tips.
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