The Psychometric Research, Inference, and Statistical Methods (PRISM) Lab, directed by Dr. Alfonso J. Martinez, is seeking motivated and enthusiastic undergraduate researchers to join our collaborative and dynamic research group! At the PRISM Lab, we focus on using cutting-edge statistical and quantitative methodology to address questions pertinent to the social, behavioral, and psychological sciences.
As an undergraduate researcher, you will have the unique opportunity to work closely with our team of experienced scientists and contribute to cutting-edge research projects across a wide variety of domains. This position offers valuable hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a real impact in the world of scientific discovery.
Why Join the PRISM Lab?
From mental health apps that personalize interventions to algorithms that shape our social media experiences, data plays an increasingly influential role in our daily lives. The ability to navigate, interpret, and draw meaningful conclusions from data is essential for understanding human behavior and informing evidence-based decisions.
The PRISM Lab offers students the unique opportunity to be a part of a thriving research group focused on developing, applying, and evaluating cutting-edge quantitative methods to study human behavior and psychological processes. A non-exhaustive list of the questions the lab tackles include:
How can we use statistics and data science to better understand psychological phenomenon like personality traits?
How can we systematically and meaningfully capture individual change and growth over time, and how can this information be leveraged to predict future psychological outcomes?
How can we tell if a clinical diagnostic assessment is actually measuring what it’s supposed to?
The PRISM Lab may be an excellent fit for students interested in pursuing graduate studies in fields such as psychology, (bio)statistics, educational measurement, or health analytics; careers in the private sector, including data analysis, product analytics, or marketing; or roles in non-profit and government organizations. A strong foundation in quantitative methods can open a wide range of opportunities.
Position Description
Key Responsibilities
Attend lab meetings and contribute to discussions.
Process and clean data files.
Conduct statistical analyses and create graphics.
Conduct literature reviews.
Qualifications
Interest in quantitative methods and their applications to the social and behavioral sciences.
Completion of PSYC 2000 (Statistics) and PSYC 2010 (Research Methods), or the equivalent, with a B grade or higher.
Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Interest and willingness to learn statistical programming languages such as R or Python. Prior experience is not required; however, interested candidates are strongly encouraged to complete free R training prior to joining the lab.
Expectations
To ensure students’ experience in our lab is both meaningful and beneficial, we have established a few requirements. We request a minimum commitment of 3-5 hours weekly throughout the academic semester and ask that students commit to at least two consecutive semesters.
What We Offer
Hands-on research experience, including—but not limited to—collecting/analyzing data, learning data visualization techniques, developing skills in statistical/computer programming, and collaborating with partner research groups.
Mentorship from experienced Ph.D. level scientists and advanced graduate students.
Opportunities for skill development and networking.
An opportunity to present research findings at professional research conferences.
Flexible scheduling to fit around your classes and personal commitments.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following application materials to theprismlab@gmail.com:
Resume or CV
A brief cover letter (one page max) outlining your interest in the position and relevant qualifications
Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Qualified applications will be contacted via email for an interview.
Please email theprismlab@gmail.com with any questions.