The purpose of this study is to identify how trauma-focused psychotherapy changes the function of brain circuitry in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how this mediates improvements in the diminished ability to experience positive emotions following a traumatic or extremely stressful life event. In this instance, we will be using cognitive processing therapy (CPT), a widely-utilized and evidence-based treatment for PTSD. This treatment is offered in routine clinical practice both in multiple care settings. We hope to learn more about the relationship between psychotherapy and brain functional changes during various psychological tasks probing neural circuitry involved in positive emotion. These tasks will involve the receipt and pursuit of rewards such as juice or money. We want to see how the brain changes from baseline to directly following a course of psychotherapy that is evidence based and proven to help treat people with PTSD. We expect to see brain changes in reward processing and relate these changes to symptomatic improvements in positive affect that typically occur following evidence-based PTSD treatment. Our central hypothesis is that CPT will alter amygdala and reward circuit (ventromedial prefrontal cortex and ventral striatum) encoding of reinforcement learning (RL) parameters (a computational model to explain information processing underlying experimental behavior in the pursuit of rewards), and that therapeutic mechanisms will differ as a function of presence/absence of threat in the reward processing context.
- Academic Background:
- Major in Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, or a related field.
- Strong academic performance (GPA 3.5 or above).
- Research Experience:
- Previous experience in a research lab (preferably in neuroscience or psychology) is a plus.
- Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques for hematologic analysis (e.g., buffy coat isolation, erythrocyte collection, etc.) is advantageous.
- Technical Skills:
- Experience with neuroimaging techniques (e.g., MRI, fMRI) is a plus.
- Computer Skills:
- Competence in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Basic programming skills (Python, MATLAB) are advantageous.
- Soft Skills:
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Attention to detail and precision in experimental procedures.
- Personal Attributes:
- Passion for neuroscience and mental health research (pre-PhD preferred).
- High level of motivation and commitment.
- Additional Qualifications:
- Coursework or knowledge in affective disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety).
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately.
Renewed opportunities based on funding and continuation of research.
- fMRI Scans:
- Assist with the setup and operation of fMRI equipment.
- Help in preparing participants for scans (e.g., explaining procedures, ensuring comfort).
- Monitor participants during scanning sessions.
- EEG Sessions:
- Set up EEG equipment and electrodes.
- Assist in data collection during EEG sessions.
- Ensure proper data storage and organization post-session.
- Clinical Assessments:
- Administer standardized clinical questionnaires and interviews under supervision.
- Record participant responses accurately and confidentially.
- Assist in scoring and interpreting assessment results as directed.
- Data Entry:
- Perform data quality checks and verify accuracy of entries.
- Maintain organized and up-to-date survey records of all data.
- General Research Support:
- Assist in recruiting and scheduling participants for studies.
- Prepare and organize research materials (e.g., consent forms, questionnaires).
- Participate in lab meetings.
- Ethical and Professional Conduct:
- Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in handling participant data.
- Ensure compliance with all institutional and regulatory guidelines.
- Provide support to the research team as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a collaborative spirit.
