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Cognitive Neuroscience Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Post-Doctoral Associate

Newark, NJ · On-site

$51K - $69K/yr

The fellow will work within a multidisciplinary team integrating cognitive neuroscience, neuropsychology, genetics, neuroimaging, exercise science, public health, sleep research, and biomarker ...

Stay current with developments in cognitive neuroscience, neurotechnology, and wearable sensing, and integrate new techniques into ongoing research. Choose Duke. Min Degree Requirements: Ph.D. or ...

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Cognitive Neuroscience Research information

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$24K

$62.9K

$123K

How much do cognitive neuroscience research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive neuroscience research in the United States is $62,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job in cognitive neuroscience research?

Most people who specialize in cognitive neuroscience research start by completing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, neurology, or a related field, and then earning advanced qualifications, such as a master's degree or doctorate. As a researcher, you focus on enhancing our understanding how physical structures of the brain, such as the neuron, influence behavior, emotion, and memory, so you need extremely strong research and analytical skills. Some roles prefer candidates with experience in administering neurobehavioral assessments. Research assistants typically start with a bachelor's degree, but need to finish high-level degrees to be able to take the lead on a research project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cognitive neuroscience research?

To thrive in Cognitive Neuroscience Research, you need a strong background in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree (e.g., Ph.D. or M.Sc.). Proficiency with neuroimaging techniques (such as fMRI or EEG), statistical analysis software (like SPSS, MATLAB, or Python), and research methodologies is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for producing reliable results and advancing knowledge. These competencies are vital for designing robust experiments, analyzing complex data, and contributing meaningful insights to the scientific community.

What are some common challenges faced in cognitive neuroscience research and how can new researchers overcome them?

Cognitive neuroscience research often involves working with complex experimental designs, advanced neuroimaging techniques, and large datasets, which can be challenging for newcomers. Additionally, interpreting results and drawing meaningful conclusions requires a strong understanding of both neuroscience and statistical analysis. New researchers can overcome these challenges by seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in collaborative projects, and making use of training resources and workshops. Regularly attending lab meetings and conferences also helps in building both technical skills and a professional network.

What is cognitive neuroscience research?

Cognitive neuroscience research is a scientific field focused on understanding how the brain enables mental processes such as perception, memory, language, and decision-making. Researchers investigate the neural mechanisms underlying cognition using techniques like brain imaging (fMRI, EEG), behavioral experiments, and computational modeling. This research helps bridge the gap between brain function and behavior, contributing to advances in psychology, medicine, and artificial intelligence.

What is the difference between Cognitive Neuroscience Research vs Cognitive Psychologist?

AspectCognitive Neuroscience ResearchCognitive Psychologist
Required CredentialsPhD in Neuroscience, Psychology, or related fieldPhD or PsyD in Psychology with specialization in cognition
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, hospitalsClinics, academic settings, research institutions
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, healthcareUniversities, mental health clinics, research centers

While both roles focus on understanding mental processes, Cognitive Neuroscience Research emphasizes studying brain mechanisms using neuroimaging and experimental methods. Cognitive Psychologists often focus on behavioral assessments and cognitive theories, sometimes applying their findings in clinical or educational settings. The roles overlap in understanding cognition but differ mainly in methods and application focus.

What cities are hiring for Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs? Cities with the most Cognitive Neuroscience Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs? The most popular types of Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs are:
What states have the most Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cognitive Neuroscience Research jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Neuroscience Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,885 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Faculty.Professor.Research Assistant - Full-Time

University of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Research Assistant Professor of Psychiatry

University of Pittsburgh, Department of Psychiatry

Pittsburgh, United States

Job description

The Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh is seeking a full-time Research Assistant Professor in the appointment stream to contribute to and advance research in psychiatric illness and mental health.

The incumbent's responsibilities will include:

         Conducting independent and collaborative research focused on the neurobiological substrates of complex human cognitive functions, and how alterations in these systems contribute to cognitive dysfunction.

         Contributing to the design, execution, and dissemination of research studies, including preparation of manuscripts and participation in grant writing.

         Supporting and, where appropriate, overseeing aspects of lab operations, including project coordination and mentorship of trainees or junior staff.

         Ensuring all research activities are conducted in accordance with university, federal, and other applicable guidelines governing the responsible conduct of research.

The search committee will primarily be looking for demonstrated experience in:

         Contributing to collaborative neuroscience or related research, with increasing independence.

         Implementing research studies and contributing to publications.

         Providing training and mentorship in research methods and laboratory procedures.

Successful candidates will join a vibrant and highly interactive research community with a long history of excellence in basic and translational neuroscience research.

Qualifications:

         PhD in Neuroscience, Psychology, or a related field.

         Demonstrated interest in psychiatry research (e.g., through poster presentations).

         Demonstrated research skills, with an emerging record of independence.

         Strong organizational and project management skills.

         Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and growing academic environment.

About the Employer

At the University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry, we excel in our mission to:

  • Provide superb behavioral health services to our patients and their families;
  • Pursue the development of improved diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions through innovative research;
  • Provide a stimulating learning environment for medical and graduate students, residents, psychology interns, and postdoctoral fellows.

Our success in each of these areas depends on a highly interactive community of clinicians, scientists, and educators who bring diversity in background, experience, expertise, and perspective to our mission.

An essential partner in this work is UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital, a national leader in innovative treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. Pitt Psychiatry's faculty of more than 230 members across basic and clinical science disciplines is central to our success in advancing research, education, and clinical care.

Areas of Research

  • Psychology
  • Psychiatry
  • Neuroscience

How to Apply

Please apply by going to our job site (https://cfopitt.taleo.net/careersection/pitt_faculty_external/jobsearch.ftl), searching job code 26003873 in the keyword search, and submitting your materials through our Pitt system.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Equal Opportunity Employer.