Psychology & Neuroscience Undergraduate Research Internship

 

Thanks for your interest in our internship!

If you’re fascinated by psychology and neuroscience…

If you're looking for experience with clinical populations…

If you’re interested in learning the in’s and out’s of conducting research…

You would love this position.

 

What is the research?

This position will take a deep dive into carrying out a research project. You’ll work with renowned researchers Dr.s Keely Muscatell and Jessica Cohen in the UNC Psychology & Neuroscience Dept and our oncologist partners at UNC Health to carry out a study on how cancer treatment affects cognition. This project will elucidate the specificity, assessment, and risk factors of cognitive changes in breast cancer patients by collecting neuropsychological and MRI scan data before and after treatment.

What’s the job?

You’ll have a range of duties, including…

  • participant recruitment, screening, calling, scheduling

  • obtaining informed consent

  • conducting neuropsychological testing

  • attending MRI scan sessions

  • data management and analysis

  • project coordination and trouble-shooting

What’s the commitment?

The internship is at least a 1 1/2 year commitment (Jan ‘23 - May ‘24). The weekly time commitment will vary, depending on when participants are able to schedule sessions. Most weeks will likely be 6-8 hours, but the intern must have scheduling flexibility to accommodate data collection sessions in addition to normal work hours.

Should I apply?

You should apply if you are fascinated by this research project and want significant research experience. If you are a junior considering an Honors Thesis, this is a wonderful project from which to build your thesis.

What is the eligibility criteria?

  • must be local resident (able to come to campus over the summer)

  • must be able to make full 1.5 yr commitment with somewhat open/flexible schedule for data collection sessions

  • must be extremely organized and independent and have strong critical thinking skills

  • previous research experience preferred, but not required

  • Junior considering Honors Thesis project preferred, but not required

What are the benefits of getting this internship?

Lots! This role will provide incredible experiences to add to your resume/CV and discuss in interviews. You’ll also work closely with renowned UNC research faculty, who will be valuable references for future job or graduate school applications. In addition, you’ll be able to narrow down your research interests, directly interact with patients, and attend monthly lab professional development meetings. Finally, you’ll work in a supportive, friendly, collaborative environment with plenty of resources to support your work, thesis (if applicable), and personal growth.

During the school semesters, this position can fulfill course credit and graduation requirements by registering for Psych/Neuro 395 research course (1-2 semesters) and/or Honors Thesis course (2 semesters). Unfortunately, this specific project does not have the budget to pay during the school year. However, we are seeking sources of funding to provide compensation over the summer. We recognize that unpaid internships contribute to DEI concerns within academia, and we encourage folks who need funding to check out our many other opportunities for sponsored research experiences, such as seeking work-study research assistant positions and exploring other sources of funding outlined on the Office of Undergraduate Research funding website.

This internship sounds great! How do I apply?

Yup, it is pretty cool! Once you have thoroughly reviewed the above information, click the below link to fill out an application. You’ll enter your contact information, your current CV/resume, and some background info about your interest in this position and research, and then we’ll contact a handful of applicants for interviews.

APPLICATION LINK