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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
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Mentorship & Training
Interns receive direct mentorship from Dr. Janette Watkins and graduate student researchers. Training will include:
This is an excellent opportunity for students considering graduate school, coaching careers, public health, or clinical research.
Duration and Commitment
To Apply
Please submit:
A resume and a short statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs) describing:
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
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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.
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