Position Overview
This position supports research conducted at the Institute of Child Development. Dr. Megan Gunnar holds a grant to support work within a multisite research project across the United States enrolling 6,000 participants. Minnesota is one of many research sites. The goal of this study is to establish the normal ranges for measures of a number of physiological systems that are activated when young children experience stress. This information will be used to create a new screening test to help physicians know when their patients are experiencing chronic excessive physiological stress activation. We are seeking someone with knowledge of child development theory and research who has sufficient laboratory and engagement with young children experience to be able to recruit families into participant testing and collect data for the project. Responsibilities for this position include contacting families, describing the research,
scheduling appointments and sending reminders, tracking data, obtaining informed consent, administering behavioral tasks and questionnaires, collecting biological samples and growth measurements of child participants under 6 years of age, and assisting other lab staff in research tasks.
This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. To accommodate the needs of participating families, a portion of the work may occur in the mornings, afternoon, evenings, and on weekends. Portions of the work may be conducted remotely, using Zoom and/or phone calling at times convenient for participants and some data collection appointments will occur at local community sites in addition to on campus. This position also requires out-of-state travel up to a maximum of 5 times per year, lasting 4-10 days per trip for research collection at partner early learning centers. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures. The target start date of this position is July 1, 2024. Spanish fluency or proficiency is required for this position.
Job Responsibilities
Data Collection with participants (60%)
Data Management (10%)
General Laboratory Support & Research Administration (10%)
Participant Recruitment (10%)
Research collection out-of-state (10%)
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Department Overview
The Institute of Child Development (ICD) at the University of Minnesota has long been a premier center for scholarship, teaching, and outreach devoted to the understanding and fostering of child development. Founded in 1925, the Institute is one of the oldest departments studying children's development in the United States. From its inception, a key tenet of the department has been to "give away" child psychology. This philosophy has created an environment rich with collaborations, new ideas, and exciting interdisciplinary work. The ICD is housed within the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) and has an undergraduate program within the College of Liberal Arts (CLA).
College Overview
The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college and the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice.
Working at the University
At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
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The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).