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Join the Lab

Undergraduate Research Assistants

The SAFE Behavior Lab typically includes a team of about 10 undergraduate research assistants at Rowan University. Research assistants support all aspects of our ongoing research studies. In addition to the development of research skills, research assistants participate in professional development activities to prepare for a future career or graduate school. Students from all disciplines and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Below is a list of our preferred qualifications.

• Ability to commit at least 8-10 hours per week to lab responsibilities
• 1 + year commitment to working in the lab
• Learning and Behavior course completion or relevant coursework in behavior analysis or child development
• Experience working with children and families with diverse needs
• At least a 3.5 GPA
• Ability to attend in-person lab meetings on Fridays from 12-1 pm
• Preference will be given to students with Junior standing or below

To apply to the SAFE Behavior Lab, please complete the LAB APPLICATION and email a copy of your resume or CV to our Lab Coordinator, Belany Fuentes, at fuente38@rowan.edu. Interviews with members of our lab leadership team are typically conducted in late spring and summer for summer and fall positions.

Graduate Research Assistants

The SAFE Behavior Lab typically supports several postbaccalaureate or graduate students interested in gaining research experience. Graduate research assistants are expected to contribute to all aspects of the research process and to take on leadership roles, including supporting undergraduate research assistants. The SAFE Behavior Lab may be able to provide experience in developing and presenting research at scientific conferences and assisting with manuscript writing.

Students in the M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis Program may apply to complete their practicum experience in the SAFE Behavior Lab. Students will receive training to deliver behavior analytic interventions to address unsafe and interfering behavior and will receive supervision from a board certified behavior analyst.

To apply to the SAFE Behavior Lab, please complete the LAB APPLICATION and email a copy of your resume or CV to our Lab Coordinator, Belany Fuentes, at fuente38@rowan.edu.

Doctoral Students

The SAFE Behavior Lab supports doctoral students in the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program, working under the mentorship of Dr. Simmons. Doctoral students support ongoing grant-funded research studies and have opportunities to pursue independent research that is aligned with the lab’s research agenda. Doctoral students are encouraged to actively present and publish research findings and to participate in grant writing. Doctoral students serve as a part of the lab leadership team, transitioning to roles of Assistant Lab Manager and Lab Manager. An important part of the SAFE Behavior Lab is mentoring and supervising our team of undergraduate research assistants who contribute to all projects.

Prospective students can learn more about the program HERE. The application deadline is December 15th.

Dr. Simmons will be considering applications for students to begin Fall 2026.