Student Opportunity FW25/26 - Task Sequencing RA

Post

Published on July 15, 2025

Job ID: 82168

Job Title: Task Sequencing RA

Application Deadline: Thursday, August 14, 2025 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Applications are only accepted through the Career Centre. Go to the Experience York portal through Passport York and search for the posting with the Job ID listed above. Note: applicants must be eligible to participate in the Research @ York (RAY) program, see eligibility criteria.

Hourly wage: $19 per hour

Hours per week: 10 hours per week

Start date: September 2, 2025

End date: April 24, 2026

Job description

Under the supervision of Prof. Shital Desai, the Task Sequencing RA (for up to 10 hours per week) will contribute to the Task Sequencing in People with Dementia project, which investigates how individuals with dementia sequence everyday activities. Using data collected through eye-tracking and physiological sensors, the student will analyze behavioural patterns to identify when and how task disorientation occurs. Data will be examined both qualitatively and quantitatively using Observer XT software. This is an exploratory research opportunity ideal for a student who is curious, self-directed, and comfortable navigating complex problems. The successful applicant will engage critically and creatively with the data, taking initiative beyond following fixed instructions.

Specific research activities the student(s) will be engaged in:

The student will:

• Learning and applying Observer XT software
• Integrating sensor data (e.g., eye-tracking, physiological signals) into Observer XT
• Conducting thematic analysis of behavioural data
• Coding qualitative data and identifying key sequences and deviations
• Identifying correlations between behavioural and physiological data
• Performing sequential analysis of coded events
• Writing a research report, including an introduction and literature review on task sequencing
• Collaborating with Dr. Desai on the development of a manuscript for submission to the CHI Conference and a peer-reviewed journal

Qualifications

• Current undergraduate student at York University. Applicants from all disciplines are welcome. The Dahdaleh Institute encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and identities, and York University is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
• Required Skills and Experience:
  • Interest in design research and human-centred technologies
  • Knowledge of research methods (qualitative, quantitative, or integrative)
  • Strong analytical skills; ability to organize and interpret complex information
  • Effective note-taking, record-keeping, and documentation habits
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with WordPress or social media tools is an asset
  • Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment
  • Demonstrated initiative, responsibility, and time management skills
  • Willingness to learn new tools and contribute actively to the research process

Application materials

• Cover letter
• Resume

If you have any questions, please email Shital Desai.

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