$Not specified
The Research Assistant will conduct literature reviews, assist in behavioral experiment design, and support participant recruitment and communication with families. They will also participate in study documentation, data organization, and contribute to early-stage data analysis.
Candidates should have graduate-level coursework in relevant fields and a demonstrated interest in developmental science or related areas. Experience with human subjects research and a willingness to engage with children aged 3-5 are also required.
Investigating Emotional and Cognitive Development in Children with Extraordinary Memories The Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at UVA’s School of Medicine invites applications for a Graduate research assistant to join a multidisciplinary project exploring emotional and cognitive development in children who report extraordinary experiences, including purported memories of past lives. The Research Assistant will work closely with Dr. Saeedeh Sadeghi and provide integral support across various stages of the research process. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering studies at the intersection of child development, consciousness studies, and behavioral science. This is a part-time position (10–20 hours/week) with remote flexibility This is a part-time position (10–20 hours/week) with remote flexibility. Some in-person meetings or support for behavioral experiments at the Division’s downtown Charlottesville office will be required, with frequency determined by project needs. Position Responsibilities: Conducting literature reviews on emotional and cognitive development in early childhood Assisting in behavioral experiment design and data collection of for children with or without reported past-life memories Supporting participant recruitment and communication with families, including parents of children Participating in study documentation and data organization Assisting in qualitative coding of parent and child narratives (as needed) Contributing to early-stage data analysis and/or survey development Completing required IRB research ethics training Qualifications: Graduate-level coursework or training in psychology, neuroscience, education, or related fields Demonstrated interest in developmental science, consciousness studies, or parapsychology Experience conducting human subjects research Interest in engaging and working with children (ages 3–5), even if direct experience is limited Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills. A background check will be required for this position. Please submit CV/resume and cover letter. Employer: Division of Perceptual Studies, Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia School of Medicine Address: 210 10th St. NE, Suite 100, Charlottesville, VA 22901 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Education: Current UVA graduate student, Federal Work Study award required Licensure: None Experience: Graduate-level coursework or training in psychology, neuroscience, education, or related fields Demonstrated interest in developmental science, consciousness studies, or parapsychology Experience conducting human subjects research Interest in engaging and working with children (ages 3–5), even if direct experience is limited Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills PHYSICAL DEMANDS This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs. The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment. In 1819, Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia and inaugurated a bold experiment. Two centuries later, Jefferson’s vision thrives. Across Grounds - and throughout the world - UVA students, faculty, staff and alumni challenge convention, break barriers and pursue the greater good. The University of Virginia is made up of eleven schools and affiliated foundations in Charlottesville plus the College at Wise in Southwest Virginia. The University of Virginia Health System is a renowned academic medical center committed to providing outstanding patient care, educating tomorrow's health care leaders and discovering new and better ways to treat diseases. The University's Medical Center, School of Medicine and Physicians Group are recognized for their excellence in patient care, education and research. At UVA, we offer a rich collection benefits, which have long been recognized and valued for their comprehensiveness and competitiveness in the market. In addition to a robust array of traditional benefits such as health care, time off, and retirement, UVA offers a comprehensive list of benefits and services to help staff and faculty meet their personal and family needs.
This job posting was last updated on 8/8/2025