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Research Lab Volunteer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar ... This volunteer position that will last for two semesters. This position is ideal for those ...

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Research Lab Volunteer information

What is a research lab volunteer?

Research lab volunteers are individuals who assist in scientific or academic research projects, often without monetary compensation. They may help with tasks such as data collection, lab maintenance, experiment setup, or administrative work. Volunteers gain hands-on experience, learn about scientific methods, and contribute to the advancement of research. These positions are commonly held by students or individuals interested in pursuing a career in science or research. Volunteering in a lab can also be a valuable way to build professional networks and strengthen a resume.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a research lab volunteer?

As a Research Lab Volunteer, your typical tasks may include assisting with data collection, preparing laboratory materials, maintaining equipment, and supporting ongoing experiments under supervision. You might also help with administrative duties such as organizing samples, inputting data, or conducting literature reviews. The role offers hands-on experience in a collaborative setting, often working alongside researchers, technicians, and other students. This exposure can help you develop practical laboratory skills and gain a clearer understanding of the scientific research process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research lab volunteer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Lab Volunteer, you typically need a background in science coursework, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn laboratory protocols. Familiarity with basic lab equipment, safety procedures, and possibly data entry systems like Excel or lab management software is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a proactive attitude help you effectively support researchers and adapt to dynamic lab environments. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute positively to the research team's objectives.

What is the difference between Research Lab Volunteer vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch Lab VolunteerResearch Assistant
CredentialsUsually no formal degree required; some background in science preferredTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or research facility, often unpaid or volunteer basisLaboratory, research projects, often paid or with academic credit
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, non-profit organizationsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies

Research Lab Volunteers assist with basic tasks and support research projects without formal employment or advanced credentials. Research Assistants usually have relevant educational background and perform more specialized research duties. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Research Assistants typically have more responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Volunteer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Research Lab Volunteer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Research Lab Volunteer jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Research Lab Volunteer job openings:

Volunteer Research Assistant: Memory & Decision-Making Lab

HaML Lab

Milwaukee, WI โ€ข On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Human and Machine Learning (HaML) Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Wisconsinโ€“Milwaukee is seeking a research assistant. Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar contexts and new situations, using behavioral and neuroimaging data and model simulations. Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar contexts and new situations, using behavioral and neuroimaging data and model simulations. This volunteer position that will last for two semesters. This position is ideal for those interested in gaining research experience and the opportunity to present at conferences and co-author publications.

Background

The HaML Lab studies how humans acquire and apply knowledge to make informed decisions in a complex and uncertain world. We aim to develop a more comprehensive theory of human learning that takes into account memory limitations, motivation, and uncertainty, while explaining how memories are formed and transformed through memory consolidation. We use a combination of behavioral methods from cognitive psychology and neural measures obtained using neuroimaging, which are used to inform development of neurally informed machine learning models that mimic human behavior and brain activity. We ultimately aim to have an impact beyond the lab by informing understanding of memory problems and memory-related disorders such as PTSD. The HaML Lab is directed by Neal Morton, PhD . See the research page for more information about Dr.Mortonโ€™s previous research.

Roles

To participate in research, undergraduate researchers must first undergo Level I training in one or more of the specific research roles. Level I training involves reading about best practices and passing a short quiz. Itโ€™s most common to start with being a Study Proctor, who helps run experimental sessions. Researchers can also get involved with designing studies, developing tasks, supervising data collection for a study, or conducting literature reviews. Undergraduate Researchers can be certified as having completed training for various research roles:

  • Study Designer: Creates the experimental design for a study.
  • Study Developer: Takes an experimental design and implements it as a task.
  • Study Proctor: Runs participants through a task to collect data.
  • Study Coordinator: Supervises data collection for a study and performs quality assurance checks on the data.

Any completed training will be displayed on your profile on the lab website, which you can show to potential employers or graduate school advisors. After completing Level I training, researchers can work on a project. If they complete a certain amount of research through that project, then they will qualify for Level II certification, which then enables them to take on an independent project like writing a literature review on a topic theyโ€™re interested in or designing and running a new study. Researchers who complete an independent project and create an approved research product, such as a paper, thesis, or cognitive task, qualify for Level III certification, which indicates that they are skilled at performing some aspect of research independently.

  • Hands-on training in cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience research techniques.
  • Experience and training in working with data, data visualization, and science communication.
  • Opportunities to present research at national and local conferences, network with leading neuroscientists.
  • Professional development for graduate school or research positions.
  • A supportive culture that encourages time off and a healthy work-life balance.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Some relevant coursework in psychology, neuroscience, math, and/or statistics.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with research, especially research studies with human participants.
  • Programming experience.
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