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Project Descriptions
Fall 2026

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Rhythms and Rewards

Sheri Johnson, Professor  
Psychology  

Applications for Fall 2026 are closed for this project.

The goal of this study is to consider how reward sensitivity and circadian rhythm disturbance relate to bipolar disorder.

Role: The undergraduate research assistant will support project operations and data collection. A key role is assisting with data collection for in-person MRI visits at the Berkeley Imaging Center. Roles and responsibilities may also include assisting in recruitment, participant communications (e.g., email, google voice), data processing, and other study operations.

Qualifications: Punctuality, professionalism, and a careful and conscientious demeanor are imperative. Because this project may involve working with participants with mental health diagnoses, strong interpersonal skills and comfort with interacting with research participants is required.

An interest in mental health, clinical research, or human neuroimaging is important. The ability to work independently and reliably, with attention to detail, is also important. Professionalism in maintaining confidentiality and following ethical research guidelines is essential. Prior research experience is a plus but not required.

As this position includes assisting with MRI visits, the ability to attend an average of 1 evening (i.e., 6:30 - 10:00pm) visit per week is required. To allow for scheduling flexibility, we require team members to protect at least 2 weekday evenings per week. The applicant must be willing to complete the CPHS CITI training and MRI safety training. Candidates must have achieved a B+ or higher in statistics.

Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Matthew Elliott, Post-Doc

Hours: 9-11 hrs

Off-Campus Research Site: Berkeley Way West and the Berkeley Imaging Center (Li Ka Shing)

Related website: http://

 Social Sciences   Education, Cognition & Psychology

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