Field of Study:
Vision Science, Optometry, Psychology, Computer Science, Traffic and Transporation, Urban Design
Department:
College of Optometry
Rank of Student:
Sophomore, junior, or senior
Desired Majors:
Psychology, Computer Science, Engineering, and related fields
Hours per Week:
12
Compensation Type:
Academic Credit,
Salary / Stipend
Application Deadline:
Contact:
Dr. Walter Wu (wu.6239@osu.edu)
Private
Public
Project Description
We are seeking motivated undergraduate students to join our research project exploring the impact of impaired vision on street-crossing behavior at signal-controlled intersections, both with and without AI-powered assistive technologies. The project investigates how individuals with visual impairments make decisions when crossing streets based on pedestrian signals and how their behavior is affected when supported by AI systems that convey signal status with varying levels of precision. Our goal is to understand how sensory perception, assistive tools, and technology shape safe street-crossing behavior, contributing to more accessible urban mobility solutions.
As a research assistant, you will engage in multiple aspects of the project. Your responsibilities will include preparing research materials, recruiting participants with and without visual impairment, and conducting participant testing both in the lab and on campus. You will also manage and organize research data, assist with data analysis, and support tasks such as grant applications and IRB submissions. This position offers valuable experience in behavioral research, human-computer interaction, and data management, while contributing to a project focused on improving accessibility and safety in urban environments.
As a research assistant, you will engage in multiple aspects of the project. Your responsibilities will include preparing research materials, recruiting participants with and without visual impairment, and conducting participant testing both in the lab and on campus. You will also manage and organize research data, assist with data analysis, and support tasks such as grant applications and IRB submissions. This position offers valuable experience in behavioral research, human-computer interaction, and data management, while contributing to a project focused on improving accessibility and safety in urban environments.
Additional Information
We are seeking students who can commit to working in the lab for at least two semesters. This opportunity is particularly suited for those with an interest in clinical vision science and assistive technologies or pursuing careers in healthcare fields such as medicine, optometry, or occupational therapy. Students considering graduate studies in disciplines like psychology, computer science, neuroscience, or vision science are highly encouraged to apply. For more information about our research, please visit our lab’s website: https://u.osu.edu/wulab/
Required Applicant Information
1. Resume or CV highlighting relevant coursework, research experience, and skills.
2. A brief statement of interest explaining why they are interested in this position and how it aligns with their academic or career goals.
3. Availability for the next two semesters, including any potential scheduling conflicts.
4. Contact information for one or two references (professors or previous supervisors preferred).
2. A brief statement of interest explaining why they are interested in this position and how it aligns with their academic or career goals.
3. Availability for the next two semesters, including any potential scheduling conflicts.
4. Contact information for one or two references (professors or previous supervisors preferred).
Required or Desired Skills
Required Skills
1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills to recruit and work with participants, including individuals with visual impairments
2. Attention to detail for managing and organizing research data accurately
3. Willingness to assist with both lab-based and on-campus participant testing
4. Reliable and able to manage time effectively for meeting project deadlines
Desired Skills (Optional but Beneficial)
1. Experience working with individuals with disabilities or in behavioral research settings
2. Knowledge of psychological experiments and data analysis tools or software (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB)
3. Experience with IRB processes in a research context
4. Interest in accessibility, urban mobility, or assistive technologies
1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills to recruit and work with participants, including individuals with visual impairments
2. Attention to detail for managing and organizing research data accurately
3. Willingness to assist with both lab-based and on-campus participant testing
4. Reliable and able to manage time effectively for meeting project deadlines
Desired Skills (Optional but Beneficial)
1. Experience working with individuals with disabilities or in behavioral research settings
2. Knowledge of psychological experiments and data analysis tools or software (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB)
3. Experience with IRB processes in a research context
4. Interest in accessibility, urban mobility, or assistive technologies
Faculty Member Lead:
Walter Wu
Starting Semester:
Autumn,
Spring,
Summer
Length of Project (in semesters):
2