Are you keen on memory, cognitive training and healthy aging? Would you like to explore how people’s use of strategies affects their memory performance in everyday life? Are you looking to gain hands-on research experience in the field of cognitive aging? Join us as a Research Assistant in our Laboratory of Cognitive Ability and Plasticity, led by Professor Claudia von Bastian, based at the School of Psychology at the University of Sheffield.

The study uses an innovative experience sampling research method, investigating the relationship between within- and between-individual variation in visual working memory and automatic strategy use in younger and older adults. This study is part of the ESRC-funded project “Strategic Training to Support Healthy Cognitive Aging: Behavioral, Neuroimaging, and Real-World Investigations.” You will also have the opportunity to interact with the wider research team, including Professors Louise Brown-Nicholls (Principal Investigator, University of Strathclyde), Richard Allen (University of Leeds), Melanie Burke (University of Leeds) and Mario Parra Rodriguez (University of Strathclyde).

In this position, you will play a key role in data collection, working closely with the current postdoctoral researcher. Your responsibilities will include recruiting and screening younger and older adult participants; Administer a battery of questionnaire-based assessments, neuropsychological tests, and cognitive tasks; and monitor and manage data collection during a three-week experience sampling phase.

We are looking for a candidate with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology or a closely related field (or equivalent experience). You must have a solid foundation in cognitive and/or differential psychology, along with basic skills in quantitative research methods. Experience collecting in-person and online data is required. The role also requires strong organisational, time management and communications skills to support day-to-day coordination of data collection activities. Experience working with older participants in a research setting is an advantage.

The role provides an excellent opportunity to be part of a dynamic and supportive research community within the School of Psychology at the University of Sheffield. You will contribute to innovative research at the forefront of cognitive aging and plasticity led by a team of world-leading experts. The role also provides a valuable opportunity to expand your expertise in both cognitive and differential psychology, supporting your professional development and future career in academia.

What we offer

• 38 days per year (including closing days and public holidays), with the option to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Commitment to work-life balance including flexible and hybrid working opportunities where possible.
• Highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a course of action plan.
• Commitment to your development through programmes, learning modules and mentoring plans.
• A variety of employee networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your well-being, with confidential emotional support, support for those going through menopause, experiencing fertility treatment and having a baby, paid time off for IVF treatment and more.

We are committed to exploring flexible employment opportunities that benefit the individual and the university.
We build teams of people of different heritages and lifestyles from around the world, whose talents and contributions complement each other to achieve maximum impact. We believe that diversity in all its forms achieves greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.