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Cognitive Science Intern Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Cognitive Science Intern information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do cognitive science intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cognitive science intern in Boston, MA is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cognitive science intern do?

Cognitive science combines psychology, linguistics, philosophy, and artificial intelligence to develop theories about the human brain and how humans learn, think, and form perceptions. As a cognitive science intern, you study under the guidance of a company to gain hands-on experience in the field. Your exact responsibilities may vary, depending on the organization, but you may be asked to assist cognitive scientists with research, recruit participants for studies, collect, organize, and analyze data, read theoretical and empirical papers, attend meetings, and complete clerical duties. Internships can be paid or unpaid and differ in length, from a few weeks to several months.

What kind of job can you get with cognitive science intern?

A cognitive science intern can pursue roles such as research assistant, data analyst, user experience designer, or cognitive researcher. These positions often involve applying knowledge of human cognition, using tools like MATLAB or Python, and may require strong analytical and communication skills.

How do cognitive science interns typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during their internship?

Cognitive Science Interns often work closely with professionals from fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and linguistics. Collaboration usually involves participating in team meetings, contributing to joint research projects, and sharing insights from their unique academic background. Interns are encouraged to communicate their findings clearly and integrate feedback from diverse perspectives, which enhances both their learning experience and the quality of the team's work. This multidisciplinary environment helps interns develop strong teamwork and communication skills, which are essential for future career growth in cognitive science.

What does a cognitive science intern do?

A Cognitive Science Intern typically assists with research and projects aimed at understanding how humans think, learn, and process information. Their work may involve collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and supporting the design of cognitive models or user studies. Interns might collaborate with professionals from psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and linguistics. The role provides hands-on experience in interdisciplinary research and helps interns develop skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cognitive science intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Science Intern, you typically need a strong academic background in cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, or a related field, along with basic research and data analysis skills. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), statistical analysis software, and experimental design tools is often expected. Strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interns excel in collaborative research environments. These competencies are vital for accurately conducting research, interpreting data, and contributing valuable insights to interdisciplinary projects.

Is cognitive science in demand?

Cognitive science is a growing interdisciplinary field with increasing demand in areas such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and user experience design. Interns with skills in research methods, programming, and data analysis are often sought after in academic, tech, and healthcare sectors.

What kind of jobs can I get with a cognitive science intern degree?

A degree or internship in cognitive science can lead to roles such as research assistant, user experience designer, data analyst, or cognitive engineer. These positions often require skills in research methods, programming, and understanding human behavior, and are found in fields like technology, healthcare, and academia.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Science jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Cognitive Science jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Cognitive Science Intern jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Cognitive Science Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Intern job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,497 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Scientist Intern, User Experience (HCI/HMI)

Charles River Analytics

Cambridge, MA

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Charles River Analytics, a GRVTY company, creates solutions and technology to tackle the world's most challenging problems. Our team of technological entrepreneurs works together to push at the forefront of enhanced AI, robotics, smart sensing, and human-centered computing. The resulting research and development help to continuously advance government programs and discover new possibilities in the commercial marketplace. At Charles River, we take great pride in our success at attracting and retaining the most talented and creative problem-solvers in our field. Now as part of GRVTY, we offer the same trusted capabilities with increased organizational depth and expanded capacity across mission-critical national security domains. Are you ready to accelerate our mission-focused innovations? We'd love to hear from you!

Our interns work on real projects and cutting-edge technology. We believe strongly in promoting within, which is demonstrated by the fact that we not only have hired former interns, but that several of our senior-level staff began their careers at Charles River as interns! 

We are looking for an enthusiastic Scientist Intern for our UX Innovation division. We are seeking students with an interest in learning about how to build human-centered systems and a successful academic background in the following areas: human factors, cognitive systems engineering, human computer interaction, user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design/assessment, and quantitative/qualitative data analysis.   

You will use a variety of approaches such as: knowledge elicitation, task analysis, iterative user-centered design approaches, and human factors-based usability evaluation methods. During your time at Charles River, you will work in small project-oriented groups of scientists and software engineers to address challenging problems related to creating user-centered technology and cognitive-support tools.

What we're looking for:

  • In pursuit of a PhD in Computer Science, Human Factors, or related field
  • Experience with user experience, human-computer interaction, or human factors
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as effectively within a team environment
  • Strong verbal and written skills to support report writing
  • U.S. citizenship

Not required, but we'd love to see:

  • Requirements analysis
  • Quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis
  • Wireframing and concept design
  • Usability and/or technology evaluation

Salary Range

$20.00 - $30.00 per hour

The above salary range is an estimate based on the internal job level(s) for which this role is being considered. The final salary will be decided after careful evaluation of the individual's work experience, education, and overall qualifications. This range does not include the substantial total rewards, as listed below, that you will also be eligible for as an employee owner at Charles River Analytics.

Benefits:
Charles River Analytics offers an attractive benefits package that includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • Casual work environment
  • Free snacks and beverages
  • Eligible for medical plan enrollment or opt-out incentive
  • Paid sick/excused time
  • Free onsite parking and easily accessible by public transportation (the MBTA)

Internship Activities:
Interns at Charles River Analytics can participate in activities such as:

  • Intern challenge problems
  • Seminars
  • Company-wide outings