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Spatial Cognition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$32K - $45K/yr

Position Summary This individual will work closely with PI/supervisor and intern research assistants in the Research in Spatial Cognition Lab to ensure smooth functioning of an active research ...

Position Summary This individual will work closely with PI/supervisor and intern research assistants in the Research in Spatial Cognition Lab to ensure smooth functioning of an active research ...

Position Summary This individual will work closely with PI/supervisor and intern research assistants in the Research in Spatial Cognition Lab to ensure smooth functioning of an active research ...

... cognition, health, and collective behaviors. We use neuroimaging methods such as fMRI and fNIRS, to ... and spatial analysis, to analyze large datasets with the goal of better understanding how places ...

We're backed by Pear VC, BAG VC, and Scott Wu (CEO of Cognition), with angels from Google DeepMind ... Translate complex spatial intelligence concepts into clear, intuitive interfaces that enterprise ...

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Spatial Cognition information

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How much do spatial cognition jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for spatial cognition in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is spatial cognition?

Spatial cognition refers to the mental processes involved in acquiring, organizing, and using knowledge about spatial environments. It includes abilities such as understanding directions, visualizing objects in space, navigating through environments, and recognizing spatial relationships between objects. Researchers in this field study how humans and animals perceive, remember, and interact with their surroundings, and these insights are applied in areas like psychology, neuroscience, education, and artificial intelligence. Understanding spatial cognition helps improve navigation systems, educational tools, and even the design of user interfaces.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Spatial Cognition Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spatial Cognition Researcher, you need expertise in cognitive science, psychology, neuroscience, or a related field, typically supported by an advanced degree (e.g., PhD) and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with research methodologies, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and neuroimaging tools is often required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for designing studies and sharing findings. These skills are crucial for advancing our understanding of how humans perceive, process, and use spatial information, impacting fields like education, robotics, and navigation.

What types of interdisciplinary collaboration can I expect in a Spatial Cognition research role?

Spatial Cognition professionals often work closely with experts from fields like psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and geography. Collaborations may involve designing and conducting experiments, analyzing spatial data, or developing computational models. Team members share insights from their respective disciplines to tackle complex questions about how humans perceive, process, and use spatial information. This interdisciplinary environment fosters creativity and continuous learning, making strong communication skills and adaptability important for success.

What is the difference between Spatial Cognition vs Geospatial Analyst?

AspectSpatial CognitionGeospatial Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically requires degrees in psychology, neuroscience, or cognitive scienceRequires degrees in geography, GIS, or related fields, often with GIS certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic settings, or cognitive science departmentsGIS firms, government agencies, environmental consultancies
Industry UsageUsed in cognitive research, human-computer interaction, and psychologyApplied in mapping, spatial data analysis, urban planning
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on understanding mental spatial processesFocuses on analyzing spatial data for practical applications

While both roles involve understanding spatial information, Spatial Cognition centers on mental processes and perception of space, often in research settings. Geospatial Analysts apply spatial data analysis to real-world problems like mapping and urban planning. The key difference lies in their focus: cognitive understanding versus practical data application.

Infographic showing various Spatial Cognition job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,309 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Adjunct, Environmental Studies and Sciences

Adjunct, Environmental Studies and Sciences

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL โ€ข On-site

$3K - $4K/wk

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Elmhurst University is seeking an adjunct faculty member to teach an undergraduate level geographic information systems course for Spring 2027.

GEO 207: Foundations of GIS: An introduction to spatial cognition, conceptualization and representation. Students explore physical and cultural landscapes using various mapping and geovisualization techniques and software tools. The geographic perspective is used to examine a broad range of topics including retail location, crime patterns, access to healthcare and environmental justice. No prerequisites.

Position Status: Exempt

Salary Range: The pay range is $3,800-$4,000 for a standard 1.0 credit (4 semester hour) course. New part-time faculty start at $3,800 (Adjunct Level 1).

Work Location: This position is ineligible for remote work.

Responsibilities
  • Instructor is responsible for planning the course to adhere to a set of pre-determined learning outcomes.
  • All planning of the course and course materials, as well as posting onto the delivery platform (currently Blackboard) must be done prior to the first day of class.ย 
  • Instructor is expected to be present for all course meetings, including the final exam period, and hold additional office hours to assist with student questions. Delivery method is schedule as in-person (online synchronous will be considered).
  • The instructor will monitor student progress, grade assignments, and post grades on Blackboard in a timely fashion.
  • Midterm and final grades must be submitted to the University by the required due date.
  • Appropriate faculty training (i.e. cybersecurity training) will be completed during the semester by the due dates.

Other Responsibilities

  • Supports the mission, vision, and values of Elmhurst University.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

  • A minimum of a Masters' degree in geosciences, GIS, or a related field is required.ย ย ย 
  • Demonstrated proficiency with GIS technology and its applications is required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge of ArcGIS Online preferred.
  • 2+ years relevant professional experience and prior teaching experience is preferred.ย 

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

The essential functions of this position are primarily performed in an indoor setting with limited exposure to outdoor weather conditions. Work is often sedentary in nature and requires remaining in a stationary position for extended periods. Required abilities include speaking and hearing for in-person and virtual communication, using close and distance vision when reading documents or viewing screens, and performing tasks with repetitive fine motor skills. Work may require occasional lifting, bending, carrying, or otherwise moving objects weighing up to 15 pounds. Qualified applicants who can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations will be considered.

Benefits

An overview of Elmhurst University benefits is availableย here.

Instructions to Applicants

Please submit the following materials with application:

  1. Curriculum vitae
  2. Cover letter addressing the listed qualifications
  3. A list of references including the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references. This may be included in applicant's cover letter or optional "other" document.
  4. Unofficial Transcripts

Additional materials, including letters of reference or official transcripts, may be requested prior to the start date.