We are a dynamic and diverse group of scientists conducting multidisciplinary developmental research among youth and families. If you are interested in working with us, please see the opportunities below!
What students are saying about their experience at YDI
2024 Undergraduate Research Assistant
“During my time at YDI, I gained experience with advanced technologies such as fNIRS (functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), HRV/RSA (Heart Rate Variability/Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia), and actigraphy watches. This allowed me to understand and apply complex methodologies to study physiological and psychological states.”
2024 Undergraduate Research Assistant
“Interacting with children and their caregivers has made me more passionate about children's mental health and their outcomes. This experience is invaluable to me and has really pushed me towards the path of child/adolescent psychiatry. In addition, I am very grateful for the knowledge and guidance I received during my time at YDI, which was truly one of the most fulfilling experiences I have had at UGA.”
Undergraduate Research Assistants
We are currently accepting applications for positions beginning in Summer/Fall of 2024.
Undergraduates are important, valued members of the YDI community. No prior research experience is necessary to join us! To help you get the most out of your research experience and training, we request students commit for multiple semesters, whenever possible. If you’re interested in joining our team, please click the button below so we can learn more about you. Once you submit your undergraduate research application, one of our student coordinators will contact you about training opportunities.
2024 Undergraduate Research Assistant
“Completing a research project and participating in CURO (the Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities) was incredibly beneficial for me. I learned how to compile a research project, create a poster, and present at a poster session. These experiences significantly enhanced my resume.”
2024 Undergraduate Research Assistant
“My work here has allowed me to hone in on my communication skills, especially when working with children. Also, my research has made me more empathetic for the children and families who face unfair discrimination or adversities, and has exemplified the lasting effects on psychopathology that my research at YDI has demonstrated. The many different roles I have served here has made me more adaptable to being comfortable and learning quickly in new situations. This experience has been crucial for my goals to continue working in this field as a psychiatrist.”
A group of URA's with a student coordinator at the CURO Poster Symposium
Nika helps distribute Thanksgiving food boxes at a community center
Nicki presents her work at the CURO Symposium entitled: Examining the Influence of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Adolescent Psychopathology: The Role of Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia as a Moderator
Logan speaks with UGA Provost, Dr. Hu, at the CURO Symposium on his work entitled: Associations between psychopathology and stress-induced brain activation patterns in rural youths: A home-based fNIRS analysis.
Gabi prepares to make brain bottles and perform jello brain surgery with kids in the community
Aerica presents her poster at the CURO Symposium entitled: Sleep and Impulsivity as Mechanisms for the Link between Parental Neglect and Substance Abuse