Research Assistant
City : Hamilton
Category : Other
Industry : Education
Employer : McMaster University
Research Assistant
(JD00592)
Engineering a Brighter Future
https://www.eng.mcmaster.ca/about-us/strategic-plan/
Unit/Project Description
McMaster’s department of Computing and Software is one of the top departments for Computer Science and Software Engineering in Canada. We have 40+ faculty members with expertise in computer systems, software engineering, theoretical computer science, security, privacy, machine learning, data analytics, scientific computing, and bioinformatics. The department mentors over 1,700 undergraduate students in three programs: computer science, software engineering, and mechatronics engineering. It also mentors more than 180 graduate students in master’s and doctoral programs.
The unit is starting a large study investigating how the neural mechanisms of speech recognition change with age. The study will include hearing, EEG and fMRI experiments. We are looking for a full-time research assistant to lead the implementation of the experiments and data collection. The research assistant will work closely with Prof. Christian Brodbeck and will be part of multidisciplinary team including experts in Neuroscience, Hearing and Speech, Hearing Technology, and Aging.
Job Summary
Responsible for organizing and administering one or more research projects within required deadlines under the direction of a Principal Investigator or project leader.
Purpose & Key Functions
• Oversee the collection, entry, verification, management, analysis, and reporting of data.
• Use statistical software to analyze data and interpret results.
• Design and maintain databases, data collection forms, error checking methods and related programs for efficient collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Modify and reconfigure databases to ensure the optimal storage of data and minimize data entry complexities.
• Troubleshoot moderately complex computer problems.
• Write data management and operations documentation for the project.
• Liaise between the project centre and remote project sites and personnel.
• Conduct structured project participant interviews.
• Ensure that the relevant research methodology is applied and all research material is handled in accordance with established protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Participate in the development of promotional strategies and related materials to encourage participation and support for research projects.
• Develop presentations and present information and training sessions to project personnel and project participants.
• Keep project participants informed of project progress through regular reports and newsletters.
• Gather and compile information and data required for the preparation of scientific papers, abstracts, and graphs.
• Conduct literature searches.
• Oversee the extraction and compilation of data required for reports and disseminate data to research groups and collaborating partners.
• Implement and maintain the research project budget. Create financial projections and make adjustments to the research project budget throughout the fiscal year.
• Exercise appropriate budget controls, monitor, and reconcile accounts.
• Write a variety of letters and memos.
• Participate in research project meetings and propose recommendations for procedure modifications and development in the areas of data management, quality control, and assurance.
• Write, update, and archive data management and quality assurance conventions.
• Respond to inquiries received from project personnel regarding relevant project issues and procedures.
Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in a related field of study.
• Requires 2 years of relevant experience.
Assets
• Previous experience in hearing and speech sciences and experimental psychology
• Familiarity and previous experience with EEG and/or fMRI
• Familiarity working with Older Adults
Additional Information
• Hybrid work will be an option for this role
• Within your application package, pleaser include a cover letter, resume/CV and 2-3 referees
The successful candidate must also have / demonstrate:
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships at work
• Flexibility and adaptability when meeting deadlines with numerous interruptions
• Ability to meet tight project deadlines and competing timelines
• Ability to respond creatively to resolve issues and maintain workflow
• High attention to detail while producing thorough and accurate work