Open Positions

Come join us at the International Arts + Mind Lab as we work to amplify human potential through the field of neuroaesthetics.

IAM Lab Neuroarts Research Lead

Contract Position

Location: Remote + Limited on-site meetings and some potential travel.
Must be based in Baltimore or surrounding area
Hours: 30-40 hours per week

The International Arts + Mind Lab Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics (IAM Lab) at Johns Hopkins University is a multidisciplinary research-to-practice initiative that focuses on advancing the field of neuroaesthetics. IAM Lab pioneers Impact Thinking, a translational research approach designed to address complex challenges in health, well-being, and learning through the arts. By uniting brain scientists, and other ways of knowing, with practitioners in visual and performing arts, architecture and design, and creative arts therapies, IAM Lab fosters collaboration and innovation to empower the global neuroaesthetics community.

Position Overview:
IAM Lab is seeking an experienced and visionary Neuroarts Research Lead to spearhead groundbreaking research initiatives in neuroaesthetics. The successful candidate will lead interdisciplinary projects that explore how the arts influence brain function, cognition, and human behavior, with the ultimate goal of improving health and well-being. This will include research under the Intentional Spaces Initiative to expand the foundation for collaboration between scientific researchers, technologists, social scientists, and design practitioners. Responsibilities include conducting research related to neuroaesthetics, carrying out existing research projects related to contractual scopes of work, helping to conceptualize new research projects and authoring publications for peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, and stakeholder reports.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead complex interdisciplinary research initiatives that examine the intersection of the arts, neuroscience, and well-being.
Lead research initiatives that examine the relationship between the built environment and well-being, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration across neuroscience, architecture, design, and social sciences.
Develop and implement research protocols that apply IAM Lab’s Impact Thinking model to address real-world challenges in architecture, design, and human health.
Publish high-impact research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences.
Manage external stakeholders and translate research findings into actionable solutions.
Mentor students and early career professionals.
Help secure funding through grant applications, partnerships, and sponsorships to advance IAM Lab’s research agenda and expand the impact of the Intentional Spaces Initiative.

Qualifications & Skills:

PhD in Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Behavioral Science, or a related field.
Proven track record of leading and publishing interdisciplinary research, specifically on the built environment, well-being, or human-centered design.
Experience in designing and implementing innovative research methodologies.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey scientific concepts to diverse audiences and represent the IAM Lab at conferences, symposia, and stakeholder meetings.
Experience securing and managing research grants, sponsorships, or partnerships.
Strong project management skills, including developing and adhering to timelines and budgets.
Ability to collaborate across disciplines, with demonstrated success in fostering partnerships between the arts and sciences.
Commitment to mentoring junior researchers, staff, and students.

To Apply:
Please complete this form and upload your resume. If you have trouble with the form please email your resume to [email protected]. Please only apply if you are located in Baltimore or the surrounding area. The application deadline is 1/5/2026.

Thank you for your interest in IAM Lab.