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Development, Context, and Communication Lab

For Students

Graduate Students

Dr. Malloy welcomes hearing from hard working and motivated prospective graduate students! Please email her at lindsay.malloy (at) ontariotechu.ca and describe why you are interested in the Development, Context, and Communication Lab. If possible, please attach a current CV.

Undergraduate Students

Are you interested in learning about how research studies are conducted? Consider becoming a Research Assistant (RA).

The DCC Lab is always interested in connecting with motivated, reliable, and enthusiastic undergraduate students who are eager to develop their research skills and gain hands-on experience in psychological research. If you are interested in joining our team as a Research Assistant, please submit an application using the form below.

While Research Assistant positions are filled on an as-needed basis, we maintain a pool of applicants and review submissions when opportunities become available. If your skills, experiences, research interests, and availability align with the needs of the lab, a member of our team will contact you to discuss the next steps, which may include an interview and a visit to the lab.

We appreciate your interest in the DCC Lab and look forward to learning more about you.

Research Assistant Requirements:

  • A GPA of 3.5 or higher is preferred. Students who do not meet this requirement may still apply if they have strong grades in relevant courses (e.g., Developmental Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics).
  • Must commit to working in the lab for two semesters (or 1 summer and 1 semester)
  • Must commit to at least 10 hours per week (hybrid at times, with an emphasis on in-person lab participation)

As a research assistant, responsibilities will vary and may include designing and implementing studies; collecting data in the lab, in schools, or online; transcribing, coding, and entering data; and recruiting participants for studies. Studies may involve working with children/families, adolescents, or adults. Also, undergraduate students are expected to attend and participate in lab meetings.

Apply Here!

What It’s Like Being a Research Assistant

Being a Research Assistant is about much more than contributing to research projects. It is an opportunity to develop valuable skills in research, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving while gaining hands-on experience in the research process. Along the way, RAs build meaningful connections with faculty, graduate students, and peers, creating a supportive community that fosters both personal and professional growth.

Of course, you don’t have to take our word for it. Hear directly from our Research Assistants about their experiences, the skills they have gained, and what being part of the DCC Lab means to them.

“My time as a RA has been helping me grow as a future researcher. Being involved gave me hands-on experience with the scientific process and strengthened my critical thinking skills. It reinforced my passion for developmental psychology and motivated me to pursue graduate studies and a career in academia. I am particularly thankful for the DCC Lab team that has always been incredibly patient and supportive.”

— Victoria

“Starting as an RA was one of the best choices I made. Throughout the whole summer I was able to see what makes good research as well as practice it. I was able to complete my training as an RA and even help participate as a researcher in a study on siblings and deception. This opportunity to gain research experience hands-on further drove my future in research. I’m looking forward to more opportunities to build my research experience with DCC!”

— Simran

“My experience as a Research Assistant in the DCC Lab has greatly strengthened my research, critical thinking, and analytical skills. I have had the opportunity to engage in thoughtful academic discussions, contribute to research projects, and work alongside faculty and peers. Being part of a collaborative and engaging research environment has been a meaningful experience that has informed my research interests and academic goals.”

— Gopa