Research Opportunities: Developmental Mechanism Interns
Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine
Northwestern University, Chicago Illinois
Opportunities are available for Volunteer Interns on two projects within the Developmental Mechanisms Program at the Department of Medical Social Sciences. The MAPS Follow-up Study (FUS) has followed a cohort of children from preschool age (3-5 yrs), to early school age (6-8 yrs), and now to pre-adolescence (9-10 yrs). The primary goal of the investigation is to identify developmentally based brain behavior markers in early childhood that best predict which young children are most at risk for chronic mental health problems in early adolescence. The When To Worry (W2W) study is designed to enhance early identification of mental health problems beginning in infancy, characterizing atypical patterns and neural bases of irritability in the first years of life (12-36 mos.).
Interns are key members of the Developmental Mechanisms Team, and will learn about the process of conducting developmentally sensitive assessments with a diverse population of parents and children. Lab- based assessments include direct observation, neurocognitive tasks, developmental tasks and parent interviews about clinical symptoms and family context. Interns will work as part of the research team to ensure participant assessments run smoothly and efficiently. They will be involved in lab visit preparation, administration, and completion, and will clean and input data into research study software systems. Interns will also have the opportunity to gain clinical experience through MRI visits for both MAPS and W2W. Interns may interact with parents and children and perform other study-related duties as required. This position will start June 2018.
Individuals interested in applying for an internship should be able to interact comfortably and professionally with diverse families and young children. Other necessary skills include an ability to work well as part of a team, excellent attention to detail, willingness to learn and strong organizational skills. Interns should be reliable and have a flexible attitude towards work. A flexible schedule is essential, and evening and weekend work may be required. This internship offers students two options: (1) a year-long internship with a 12-month commitment for approximately 10 hours/week, pending the availability of scheduled visits and (2) the summer internship with a 4-month commitment (May-August) for approximately 10 hours/week with the same stipulation. Applicants are asked to indicate their intended path during the application process.
This is an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in gaining research and clinical experience for graduate and medical school programs and learning about the day-to-day operations of a longitudinal, multi-dimensional study. The Developmental Mechanisms Program will provide initial and ongoing training relating to the role. The Program will also provide mentoring, such as help with resumes, applications, etc., opportunities to participate in team meetings and scientifically relevant activities (e.g., journal club), and letter of recommendation, if the intern adheres to the expectations of internship.
To apply for the position, please complete this application by May 2nd at 11:59pm. Application link: https://goo.gl/forms/LhSQcSb2eMbjMJY52
If you have any questions, please contact Makeda Springette, intern manager, at makeda.springette@northwestern.edu or 312-503-3345.
