Current Opportunities for Students

The C.H.A.M.P. lab is recruiting Research Assistants who are interested in child & family health and development. Our main requirements are enthusiasm, genuine desire to learn, reliability, and commitment to excellence. A strong academic record and relevant experience help!

Current Opportunities for Students:

(1) The Families of Richmond, VA (FoR-VA) and Families of Richmond, VA Extension (FoR-VA-X) Studies

This study focuses on how children adapt and cope in stressful environments. We learn about children and parents through multiple methods: interviews, questionnaires, observations, and biomarkers. Our team of FoR-VA Research Assistants participates in all aspects of research, from data entry and database construction to observational coding to working directly with children and families. We meet weekly to discuss the project, theoretical underpinnings, and ethical and other considerations for conducting research with children and parents. Students also have the opportunity to present during our Journal Club and work on individual projects in their interest areas.

(2) Observational Coding Teams

We have openings for coders in projects examining parent and child dyadic interactions. This type of coding offers students a deep understanding of how theory is applied to overt behaviors and explanations to derive meaningful data. Students on coding teams participate in other lab team activities, such as meetings and journal club, and are welcome to work on individual projects.

(3) The CMoR Children at Play Experience - Now a Service Learning Course!

This community-based internship is a joint venture between VCU Psychology and the Children’s Museum of Richmond (CMoR). It focuses on how children develop across early childhood - physically, cognitively, and psychosocially – particularly in play contexts. Students will participate in one group class/meeting per week and complete intern hours at the Children’s Museum of Richmond. In class, we will consider theoretical explanations of learning and development and discuss relevant research. At the museum, students participate in experiential learning activities including: observing children at play; working with museum educators to conduct scientific research demonstrations with children and parents; and conducting research with children and their caregivers. Contact Dr. Winter for information on how to register.

To apply, please fill out an application and email it to Dr. Marcia Winter ([email protected]). [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you!