About this role
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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Lion Health Lab is seeking motivated undergraduate students for a paid research internship focused on coaching, program delivery, and community-based health research. This position is ideal for students interested in working directly with youth, families, and community partners while gaining hands-on experience running real-world experiments and health interventions.
Interns will play an active role in delivering sport- and fitness-based programs (often in CrossFit or similar community settings), supporting data collection, and helping implement research protocols tied to physical activity, mental health, and family-based health promotion.
Pay: $20/hour
Commitment: 2–6 hours per week
Dates: January 24, 2026 – May 15, 2026
Project Description
Interns will support ongoing Lion Health Lab projects examining how structured physical activity and coaching environments influence physical, mental, and cognitive health across the lifespan. Much of the work occurs in community and gym-based settings, where interns help run programs, interact with participants, and support research data collection.
This internship emphasizes applied research, not desk-only work. Interns will gain experience in coaching-based intervention delivery, participant engagement, and translating health science into practice. Students will work closely with Dr. Janette Watkins (PI) and graduate student mentors throughout the semester.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with coaching and program delivery in community or gym-based settings
- Support implementation of research protocols during live programs
- Help with participant check-in, equipment setup, and session logistics
- Assist with data collection (e.g., surveys, observational measures, wearables)
- Maintain accurate records and follow human subjects research procedures
- Participate in lab meetings and training sessions
- Contribute to project documentation and brief reports
- Represent the Lion Health Lab professionally in community settings
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (any major related to kinesiology, health, psychology, neuroscience, or similar fields encouraged)
- Interest in coaching, health promotion, or community-based research
- Comfortable working with people in active, real-world settings
- Reliable, professional, and able to follow research protocols
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
- CrossFit Level 1 certification or higher (strongly preferred)
- Experience coaching, teaching, or leading physical activity programs
- Interest in public health, behavioral science, or intervention research
- Familiarity with youth or family-based programs
- Self-motivated with strong time management skills
Mentorship & Training
Interns receive direct mentorship from Dr. Janette Watkins and graduate student researchers. Training will include:
- Human subjects research procedures
- Program delivery and coaching expectations
- Community engagement and professional conduct
- Exposure to intervention science and applied research careers
This is an excellent opportunity for students considering graduate school, coaching careers, public health, or clinical research.
Duration and Commitment
- Spring 2026: January 24 – May 15, 2026
- 2–6 hours per week, depending on program schedules
To Apply
Please submit:
A resume and a short statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs) describing:
- Your experience with coaching, fitness, or community programs
- Why you are interested in applied health research with the Lion Health Lab
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Other facts
About Penn State University
The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation. ARL-Penn State supports national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through Education; Scientific discovery; Technology demonstration; and Transition to application. As a designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), ARL-Penn State conducts essential research, development, and systems engineering in support of our nations priorities free from conflict of interest or competition with commercial industry.
What you'll do
- Interns will assist with coaching and program delivery in community or gym-based settings, supporting research protocols and data collection. They will also help with participant check-in, equipment setup, and contribute to project documentation.
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