Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate Opportunities in the Hart Lab

Are you an undergraduate student interested in how children learn and develop? The Hart Lab offers several pathways for motivated students to gain hands-on research experience in developmental psychology, cognitive science, and behavioural genetics.

Why Join Us?

By joining the Hart Lab, you will have the opportunity to:

• Gain Practical Skills: Participate in data collection, literature reviews, and lab meetings.

• Contribute to Real-World Impact: Assist in research that helps tailor educational interventions for children who struggle with reading and maths.

• Mentorship: Work alongside PhD students, Postdoctoral Scholars, and Dr. Sara Hart in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

How to Get Involved

There are several ways to join our team depending on your program and interests:

1. Volunteer Research Assistants: Volunteering is a common point for students looking to explore research. We welcome students who are respectful, curious, and committed to a few hours a week.

2. Psychology Honours Thesis: If you are entering your final year of the Psychology program at Waterloo, you may have the opportunity to complete your honours thesis under Dr. Hart’s supervision. This is an intensive, year-long commitment where you will conduct an original research project.

3. Co-op Positions: We frequently host co-op students through the University of Waterloo’s co-op program. Look for Hart Lab postings on WaterlooWorks or reach out to discuss potential roles.

4. Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URA): Paid part-time research positions are sometimes available for students to work with faculty members on specific projects.

Research Areas for Undergraduates

Our lab focuses on a variety of fascinating topics where undergraduate students play a vital role.

Current focus areas include:

• The Nature and Nurture of Learning: Understanding how genetics and the home environment interact to shape academic success.  

• Reading Development: Investigating why some children face challenges like dyslexia.  

• Maths Learning & Anxiety: Exploring how emotional factors impact mathematical thinking.  

• Precision Education: Helping to develop personalized teaching methods that benefit all students.  

Ready to Apply?

We strive to maintain a diverse and inclusive lab environment. If you are interested in joining us, please email s4hart@uwaterloo.ca with the following information:

• A brief statement of interest (which research area excites you most?)

• Your current resume or CV

• A copy of your unofficial transcript

UW Undergraduate student resources 

Learn more about the University of Waterloo's Psychology department here

Find out more about the University of Waterloo's Undergraduate Psychology program 

Available Position

Undergraduate Research Assistant (Social Media/Digital Communication)

Principal Investigator: Dr. Sara Hart 

PI Website: Sara Hart | Psychology | University of Waterloo

Contact: hartlab@uwaterloo.ca   

Undergraduate Research Assistant (Social Media/Digital Communication)

Position Description

Our lab project examines the why and how differences in reading and math skills in childhood. We focus on how genetics, parents’ attitudes, kids’ behaviour, learning at home, neighbourhood and school contexts, and family history play into reading and math development. We’re also curious about why some kids seem to learn to read with no issue while others struggle.  

Qualifications for the position: 

  • Must be a currently enrolled undergraduate student at the University of Waterloo for the duration of the employment term.
  • We are looking for autonomous, creative students who have an interest in science communication within the field of psychology. We need someone to run our lab socials, including designing our digital media (such as infographics, posters, etc.).  A background in psychology and experience with WCMS3 is preferred.
  • This position starts August 11th and requires an in-person presence in our lab.

Duties: 

  • Social media management and content creation/generation  
  • Digital communication and graphic design 
  • Website set-up and maintenance
  • Working with our Science Communication Specialist to create a digital portfolio for our lab members' research including infographics

 Time commitment: ~10 hours/week, one semester minimum (more than one semester preferable). 

Benefits: 

  • A great place to develop further skills within the realm of science communication and social media  
  • Opportunity to support a Canadian Excellence Research Chair in various projects 
  • $20.00 per hour  
  • Autonomous work environment 

How to Apply: 

If you are interested in this position, please email hartlab@uwaterloo.ca  with the following: 

  • Your CV  
  • Your availability
  • A brief description of why you want this position 
  • A brief description of why you would be a good fit for our team 
  • Your favourite book when you were a kid!

Important Eligibility: This position is strictly open to current undergraduate students at the University of Waterloo. External applications will not be considered.