The Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at UVA's School of Medicine (SOM) is seeking a Graduate Federal Work-Study Student to develop a comprehensive web-based platform for consciousness and perception research experiments within the Ray Westphal Neuroimaging Laboratory. This is a part-time work-study position (10-20 hours/week), with flexibility for remote work and required periodic in-person collaboration at the Division's downtown Charlottesville office, and under the supervision of David Acunzo.

The successful candidate will lead the technical development of secure, scientifically rigorous experimental tasks for ESP and psychokinesis studies, with integration to specialized hardware including random number generators (RNG) and EEG systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply advanced software engineering skills to cutting-edge consciousness research.

Primary Responsibilities:

The Software Developer will architect and implement a research platform with the following responsibilities:

• Design and develop a secure, tamper-proof web-based experimental platform preventing participant manipulation and ensuring data integrity
• Implement precise timing mechanisms for stimulus presentation and response collection critical for parapsychological experiments
• Create modular architecture separating user interface from backend systems for maximum flexibility
• Integrate software with hardware random number generators and EEG recording systems for synchronized data collection
• Build database schema linking experimental data with participant profiles, psychological assessments, and environmental variables
• Develop both standalone applications for controlled laboratory settings and scalable web interfaces for remote participation
• Implement comprehensive logging and audit trails for research validation and peer review requirements
• Create engaging, game-like experimental tasks while maintaining scientific rigor and experimental controls
• Document code, APIs, and create technical guides for researchers and future developers
• Collaborate with DOPS researchers to translate experimental paradigms into robust software implementations
• Pass the relevant UVA trainings for maintaining confidentiality in research practices
• Participate in weekly research meetings and contribute to the technical aspects of research proposals
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled graduate student in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
• Strong proficiency in modern web development (HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript)
• Experience with at least one web framework (React, Vue, Angular, or similar)
• Backend development experience (Node.js, Python, Ruby, or similar)
• Database experience (SQL or NoSQL)
• Understanding of web security principles and best practices
• Experience with version control (Git)
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work collaboratively with researchers from non-technical backgrounds
• Good communication skills to discuss technical solutions with the research team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with real-time web technologies (WebSockets, Server-Sent Events)
• Hardware/software integration experience
• Background in statistics or data analysis
• Experience with research software development
• Interest in psychology, neuroscience, or consciousness research
• Knowledge of C# and .NET framework (for understanding legacy code)

Work Environment:

The position offers flexible work arrangements with the ability to work remotely for most development tasks. Periodic in-person meetings will be required at UVA's Division of Perceptual Studies offices in downtown Charlottesville, Virginia for:

• Hardware integration and testing with RNG and EEG systems
• Collaborative design sessions with research team
• Demonstration of experimental protocols
• Team meetings and project planning

This position will remain open until filled. This position is a restricted position and is dependent upon project need, availability of funding and performance. Initial appointment is for one semester with strong possibility of extension for the full academic year based on project progress and performance.

About DOPS:

The Division of Perceptual Studies is a university-based research group devoted to the investigation of phenomena that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms regarding the nature of consciousness. Founded in 1967, DOPS researchers employ rigorous scientific methods to investigate phenomena such as ESP, psychokinesis, and other aspects of consciousness that suggest continuation beyond physical death.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while developing advanced technical skills in a supportive academic environment.

Position Compensation: $22.00 Hourly

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Current full-time, UVA Graduate Student. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical field. Must be eligible for federal work-study.
Experience: Demonstrated experience with full-stack web development through coursework, projects, or professional experience.
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers and occasional setup of experimental hardware.

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