Undergraduate research (volunteer) – Crowd Behavior and Physiology

The Complex Systems Lab at Virginia Tech and the Virginia Affect & Interoception Lab at the University of Virginia are conducting joint research on the role of stress contagion in human crowd dynamics. We are looking for volunteer research assistants to be part of our multi-site interdisciplinary team conducting an experiment in the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech in Summer 2026. 

As a volunteer research assistant, you will:

• Learn the history of cardiac psychophysiology
• Learn about complex within-person and between-subjects research designs
• Collaborate on research with mathematicians, mechanical engineers, and psychologists 
• Lead participant recruitment efforts 
• Interface with research participants through obtaining informed consent, instrumentation, and administering study tasks, including stress induction 
• Collect electrocardiography and impedance cardiography using a 7-electrode placement

During the semester, activities will include ~1 hour/week for preliminary training beginning mid-April. Required training for the experiment will be held in a multi-hour session during the week of May 18, subject to availability. Experimental testing will be May 28th-June 11th. Research assistants should be available to work up to six 6-hour sessions during this period.

Research assistants should pay close attention to detail, have good communication skills, be able to work independently, and have an interest in working with participants. No previous experience is required. Students with coursework or research experience in psychology, biology, or cognitive science are especially encouraged to apply. 

Interested students should indicate their interest with a resume, transcript and cover letter indicating interest on Handshake by April 3, 2026.