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Apply to be a Leadership and Creativity Lab Research Assistant

What do research assistants in the LC lab do? Students have a variety of responsibilities including contributing ideas for new studies, managing data collection, and content coding qualitative data. Depending on the project that you’re assigned, you may be acting as a confederate in a laboratory study or reading up on the latest research for a literature review. Some students even learn to use survey software and design behavioral data collection tools. Every week during our lab meetings, Dr. Blocker reviews each research team’s project progress and does a career-oriented developmental talk (networking, time management, goal setting, how to write a professional email, personal branding, etc). In addition, students are encouraged to apply to internships and graduate school and get assistance with interviewing skills and writing resumes and cover letters.

What is the time commitment? The LC lab will have a one hour meeting every week during both fall and spring semesters. Meeting times are determined at the beginning of each semester based on all lab members’ schedules. In addition, students are asked to volunteer 10 hours a week on their research, although this requirement will vary depending on the projects assigned.

Who can apply? Undergraduates and graduate students from any major and any level are eligible. Students outside of Stony Brook University can also apply. Preference will be given to students in business and social science programs that have a 3.3 GPA or higher.

Why apply? Although these positions are unpaid, many students have said that participating in a research lab has been one of the defining experiences of their future career. Research assistants work closely with their faculty member and gain leadership experience, critical thinking skills, and a network of bright and motivated colleagues. Students can also get independent study course credit in BUS 487 (undergraduate) or MBA 595 (graduate). The independent study (BUS 487) course credit can fulfill the EXP+ requirement for students completing their Stony Brook Curriculum courses. This course will appear on your transcript and can be helpful for graduate school applications. In order to receive course credit for the semester, students need to register before the adding classes deadline at the beginning of the semester, which is typically within two weeks of classes starting. Students do not need to be registered for course credit to participate in the lab.

Community volunteer efforts: In addition to working on research projects, every semester Dr. Blocker and the lab have a student-led volunteer day together to give back to the community we live in. Research shows that community volunteer efforts through organizations can improve leadership and teamwork skills and create a greater sense of mission in our work.

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Social events: We want to build a community of students that work hard but also get to know each other. Past student-led social events include going out for dinner, ice cream, movie nights, and attending campus events. Lab students often build deep friendships, working closely with each other for years. Many lab member remain connected to the lab even after graduation, coming back as guest speakers or mentoring new students.

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What is the application process? We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. To apply to be a research assistant in the LC lab, please fill out the form below and upload your resume. After your application is reviewed, you will be asked to schedule a 30 minute behavioral interview. Not familiar with behavioral interviews? Here are some tips and example questions.

LC Lab Research Assistant Application Form

Please complete all questions, upload your CV or resume, and click “submit” at the bottom of the page. You will be emailed a copy of your application.

Having technical problems with this form?  Download the Microsoft Word version here and send the completed form along with your CV or resume to LCLab@stonybrook.edu