Graduate Student Positions
The Depression Research and Treatment Program is currently recruiting masters level students to help develop and conduct studies on the mood disorders. Presently, we are most interested in students who wish to conduct research that explores the impact of exposure to aspects of the physical environment such as extreme heat, air pollution and green space on mental health outcomes, and the psychological and behavioral processes that might mediate these effects.
If you are interested in applying as a masters student, please refer to the Psychology Department’s admissions procedures.
Undergraduate Research Assistant Positions
The Depression Research and Treatment Program usually includes 2 to 3 highly motivated and dedicated undergraduate research assistants. Sophomores and juniors who are interested in depression and pursuing a graduate degree in clinical psychology are especially strong candidates for these positions. Course work in Abnormal Psychology and Mood Disorders is helpful but not required. There are two components to the research assistant experience: (a) academic lab meetings; and (b) lab responsibilities.
Academic Lab Meetings
Lab meetings are the academic component of the research experience and are mandatory. The topics covered in lab meeting vary semester by semester and depend on the needs of current research assistants. Overall the aim is to provide an overview of contemporary ideas and research in depression. We cover topics such as the classification, epidemiology, etiology, and treatment of depression. In addition, we review basic statistics and introduce more advanced statistical concepts. Lab meetings include didactic lectures as well as discussion of theories and research on depression. We have a standing meeting on Tuesdays at 5pm.
Research Assistant Lab Responsibilities
Exact lab responsibilities vary by research project but tend to include:
- Data management
- Data collection
- Project administration logistics
- 10 hour per week (for 3 credits), 2 semester commitment required at minimum
Research Assistant Benefits
- Mentoring in preparation for applying to graduate school
- For RAs who are proactive, there is opportunity to implement a personal project including the possibility of an honors thesis
- Assistance in preparing well-developed projects suitable for poster presentations at national psychology conferences
- Assuming a strong performance on your part, a strong letter of recommendation for graduate school applications
- Course credit through Psych 498
How to Apply
If you are interested in one of these positions please complete our research assistant application and email it to John Roberts (robertsj@buffalo.edu).