Technical Assistant I (Research Coordinator - Parnes Lab)

Title: Technical Assistant I (Research Coordinator - Parnes Lab)

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Psychology and Brain Sci

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The incumbent will function as the Lab Manager for Dr. Jamie Parnes' research laboratory in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences. They will assist with multiple projects related to cannabis and other substance use research, including a federally funded study examining ecological momentary assessment of LGBTQ+ minority stress and substance use. Duties include coordinating study implementation (e.g., recruitment, monitoring participants), regulatory compliance (NIH/IRB), data management, and other project administration tasks.

This position is ideal for someone seeking research experience, training, and support in applying for psychology graduate programs (e.g., clinical PhD).

Essential Functions

Independently execute job functions for research protocols including informed consent procedures, serving as a contact person for potential participants, conducting brief screening interviews, maintaining participant records, and overseeing participant recruitment, scheduling, and compensation.


Develop research materials for studies and program studies in survey software. Collect and monitor the integrity of questionnaire-based data. Assist in data analysis and help write manuscripts to report research results. Enter and maintain data files.

Monitor research projects progress and assist in revising, renewing, and maintaining Internal Review Board (IRB) approval, protocols, and consent forms.

Perform administrative tasks including compiling survey information, implementing protocol changes, summarizing, and entering survey items into survey software.


Coordinate with other researchers in the lab to ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. Oversee and manage undergraduate research assistants.

Help ensure that the laboratory continues to function properly by regularly monitoring computer equipment and software and study supplies. Report any issues with computer equipment or software and restock supplies as needed.

Maintain a professional and collegial work environment with colleagues, supervisors, and study participants.

Other Functions

Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness.


Work in partnership with colleagues within the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of CNS.

Minimum Qualifications

One (1) year of related experience in a research setting or an Associate's degree or higher in psychology or a related field.

Knowledge of psychological research methods.

Basic computer skills with programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Strong attention to detail.

Must be able to work independently as well as collaboratively with lab members and staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience building, managing, and collecting data using survey software (e.g., REDCap, MetricWire).

Experience with ecological momentary assessment research.

Familiarity with working with LGBTQ+ populations.

Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., R, Mplus).

Familiarity with clinical interviews (e.g., SCID).

Additional Details

Duration of appointment renews yearly contingent on funding.

You will receive experience with conducting psychological research, grant management, data analysis, and academic writing skills. You will also gain management experience by overseeing undergraduate research assistant(s).

You will receive significant time and training directly with Dr. Parnes, including at least weekly meetings, regular personalized feedback, and professional development.

You will be able to collaborate on research projects (e.g., conference presentations, manuscripts).

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Sciences' Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst's For the Common Good: 2024-2034 Strategic Plan.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an indoor university environment and involves lifting and transporting materials or equipment and general physical activity, including prolonged standing, walking, or assuming low postures.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM with some flexibility.

In person position with a potential for some hybrid work.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: USA/MTA Grade 12

Click here to view the Classified Step Scale

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume and cover letter. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.