We are seeking an intellectually curious, highly skilled, and motivated intern to join the THRIVE Lab and contribute to our research regarding brief behavioral interventions with at-risk samples, perinatal health, and the impact of trauma on long-term functioning (e.g., mental and physical health). The lab provides a highly supportive and collaborative environment. This position provides opportunities to engage with human subjects, administer clinical interviews, gain experience with clinical intervention studies, manage and analyze data, and mentor research assistants in the laboratory. It is particularly well-suited to individuals who are seeking research experiences in preparation for graduate or medical school (https://research.uiowa.edu/students/post-baccalaureate-research-internship).

The individual hired for this position will be expected to:

• Assist with laboratory regulatory processes, including protocol development and communication with the Institutional Review Board.


• Communicate with the lab members and director in a timely manner.


• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all ethical rules specified by the Institutional Review Board.


• Recruit participants from patient settings.


• Enroll participants in longitudinal studies and maintain regular contact across time points.


• Collect, enter, manage, and analyze data.


• Manage databases using REDCap or other software.


• Follow research protocols with great attention to detail and under the supervision of Dr. Emily Thomas.


• Master and administer structured diagnostic interviews.


• Collaborate with the lab team to maintain project progress.


• Other lab management and research-related tasks.

The initial appointment will be for one year beginning in approximately May 2025, with the possibility of renewal for a second year depending on performance and available funding. Mentoring, training, and supervision will be provided. The lab is housed in Stuit Hall within the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences. We offer a collaborative, inclusive research environment with opportunity for research-related training and professional development. The position is full-time, and individuals are expected to be available in-person during business hours (8 AM – 5 PM) and occasionally during evenings or weekends. The list of qualifications is below.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting salary of $36,500 in the first year.


• Optional health insurance and dental plan.


• Mandatory retirement plan participation.


• Covered by University Workers' Compensation.


• Fifteen (15) days of paid time off per year plus paid University holidays.

Required Application Materials

• CV/resume.


• Contact information for three professional references.


• Cover letter or letter of interest.

The University of Iowa is a leading public university located in Iowa City, a midsize community with a high quality of life. The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences is experiencing vigorous growth and enhancement, including construction of a new building. The University is also making substantial investments in neuroscience—already a large community with more than 100 faculty members across five colleges and 26 departments. The Department is also home to the Seashore Psychology Clinic, a training clinic where services are primarily delivered by clinical psychology graduate students, under the supervision of clinical science faculty members. 

• Bachelor's degree in psychology or related discipline, such as neuroscience.

• Experience working in a research laboratory with human subjects.


• Ability to work 40 hours per week, typically during the week but, when necessary, over the weekend or in the evenings.


• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.


• Capable of independent, self-directed work as well as working in a team environment.


• Basic database management, data entry, and data management skills.


• US citizenship or permanent residency.


• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and successful completion of a comprehensive criminal background check are conditions of employment, as this role involves working on a VA-affiliated research project.

• Experience with statistical analysis packages (e.g., SPSS, R, etc.).


• Strong quantitative or computational skills.


• Experience performing behavioral experiments in humans.