Research Scholars Program- Clinical Research Assistant

The Research Scholars Program offers an intensive 2-year post-baccalaureate training experience at the intersection of research and clinical practice. Based in the Division of Developmental Medicine (DDM) at Boston Children's Hospital, scholars will work in an interdisciplinary environment within the Laboratories of Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Research Labs. Scholars will hold a full-time, salaried Clinical Research Assistant position, with protected time for mentored independent projects and didactics.

Goals of the program:
1. To promote excellence in research focused on neurotypical and neurodivergent development, leveraging the world-class research and clinical resources of Boston Children's Hospital and faculty of Harvard Medical School.
2. To train emerging leaders from a range of scientific and educational backgrounds in an interdisciplinary environment.
3. To develop translational researchers through cross-training and exposure to both cutting-edge research and clinical practice.

Scholars will be matched with research studies and mentors based on interests, experience, and study needs. Clinical Research Assistant responsibilities vary by study and will be discussed during the interview. Typical tasks include participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, and manuscript preparation.
Scholars will have dedicated time for didactics and independent research and be expected to submit their work for conference presentation and publication. Successful scholars will be well-prepared for professional training after completing the program.

Didactics and professional development opportunities include:

• Seminars by DDM faculty and staff in relevant research topics, statistical methods, data analysis, research design and development
• Training in data collection and experimental methods, which may include neuroimaging (EEG, fNIRS, MRI), eye-tracking, psychophysiological and behavioral assessments
• Experience working with children and young adults with neurodevelopmental conditions
• Writing groups and presentation skills workshops
• Participation in lab meetings, works-in-progress meetings, and journal clubs
• Regular talks offered through the Translational Neuroscience Center and the Brain, Mind and Behavior Center
• Clinical observation and shadowing
• Professional development panels and workshops
• Individual support for graduate or medical school applications

Eligibility Requirements:

• 4-year college degree
• Demonstrated strengths in critical thinking, writing, and verbal communication
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to balance multiple priorities
• Strong interest in working with children
• Spanish fluency preferred for several positions
• Eligibility to work in the United States
• Availability to start on or before July 7th, 2025

Application process and materials:

• CV/Resume
• Personal statement (2-page statement should highlight research interests, goals for the program, as well as ability to learn and develop new skills)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Letters of Recommendation:

Please arrange for 2-3 letters of recommendation to be sent to lcn.admin@childrens.harvard.edu. Letters should speak to the applicant's independent research potential, communication skills (written and oral), and ability to learn. The applicant's name should be included in the subject of the email as First name, Last name - Scholars Program LOR.

Please contact lcn.admin@childrens.harvard.edu with questions about the program.