Job Description

The Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at UVA’s School of Medicine (SOM) is seeking a graduate Federal Work-Study student to assist Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova with a research project about the characteristics and impacts of near-death experiences. These are subjective experiences that some individuals have when they are close to death or in a medical crisis and they can profoundly transform their lives.

This is a part-time work-study position (10-20 hours/week), in-person role located in the Division’s downtown Charlottesville office.

The Research Assistant will provide critical support for this established body of work, with responsibilities including:

• Participating in necessary training to become familiar with research on near-death experiences and current research protocols
• Assisting in maintaining SPSS database
• Assisting in qualitative coding of narratives
• Assisting in creating online surveys
• Passing the UVA Institutional Review Board for the Social and Behavioral Sciences CITI training in research ethics
• Assisting in basic data analysis (optional)
• Assisting in writing protocols for Institutional Review Board

Successful candidates should understand and be able to apply research principles, concepts, practices, and methods. They should also possess strong analytical and/or research skills, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills are a plus.

Specific qualifications include:

• Academic experience in the sciences and/or experience with scientific research; knowledge of research methods and design in the (experimental) psychological and/or social sciences preferred
• Interest in research about the nature of consciousness
• Rigorous attention to detail
• Experience using basic software programs such as: Microsoft Office, Adobe, and data software such as SPSS or SAS, as well as survey platform Qualtrics

Assistant will work on-site at UVA’s Division of Perceptual Studies offices in downtown Charlottesville, Virginia, located at 210 10th St. NE, Suite 100, Charlottesville, VA 22901.

This position will remain open until filled. This position is a restricted position and is dependent upon project need, availability of funding and performance.

Start date: August 25, 2026
End date: May 14, 2027

Wage range: $23.98-36.50 Hourly

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Current UVA Graduate Student. Must be eligible for Federal Work-Study. Degree in psychology, sociology, neuroscience or related field is preferred.
Experience: None
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment