Research Assistant I or II
University of Texas at Dallas
USD 37k-42k / month
Posted on Jan 17, 2026
| Posting Number | S06824P |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Research Assistant I or II |
| Functional Title | |
| Department | Psychology |
| Salary Range | $37,000 - $42,000, DOQ |
| Pay Basis | Monthly |
| Position Status | Regular full-time |
| Location | Richardson |
| Position End Date (if temporary) | |
| Posting Open Date | 01/15/2026 |
| Posting Close Date | |
| Open Until Filled | Yes |
| Desired Start Date | 02/16/2026 |
| Job Summary | Dr. Elena Luchkina is hiring a full-time Research Assistant I or II for the Early Cognition and Communication Lab in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas. The lab investigates how language is learned and used for communication, with a particular focus on discussing information that is not directly observable, such as hidden objects, abstract ideas, or others’ thoughts. Current and upcoming projects address the following questions:
Our research bridges developmental and cognitive science to examine how early social interactions, communicative cues, and emerging technologies shape learning and cognition. The lab integrates behavioral, eye-tracking, and computational methods to study learning and communication. We are seeking a motivated and organized researcher to oversee daily lab operations. Responsibilities include participant recruitment and database management; IRB coordination; administration of behavioral and eye-tracking experiments; data analysis (experience with R is highly valued); coordination with collaborators and contractors; and contributions to presentations and manuscripts. This position is ideal for individuals interested in strengthening their research skills prior to applying to graduate school in the coming years. The role offers opportunities for in-depth multidisciplinary research training, development of data analysis skills, authorship on publications, conference attendance, and collaboration with a wide range of research groups. The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon continued funding and satisfactory performance. |
| Minimum Education and Experience | Research Assistant I: Bachelor’s degree in one of the basic sciences or an equivalent combination of education and experience in customer service or in daily interactions in a public services environment. Research Assistant II: Bachelor’s degree; three years related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. |
| Preferred Education and Experience | Preferred Education and Experience Research Assistant I:
Research Assistant II:
Applicants are not expected to have all the skills to be competitive for the position. |
| Other Qualifications | To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position. |
| Essential Duties and Responsibilities | Duties & ResponsibilitiesResearch Assistant I:
Research Assistant I position information: FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary Range: $37,000 – $39,500 Research Assistant II:
Research Assistant II position information: FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary Range: $39,500 – $42,000 Essential Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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| Physical Demands and Working Conditions | |
| Physical Activities | |
| Working Conditions | |
| Additional Information | Work will be performed on-site and in person. What We Can Offer UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an employee-friendly and supportive work environment. Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package that is effective as of your hire date includes:
All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program. Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information. |
| Special Instructions Summary | For full consideration, please submit the following materials:
Questions regarding the position may be directed to Dr. Elena Luchkina at elena.luchkina@utdallas.edu |
| Important Message | 1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public. 2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator. |