Training & Research Opportunities

Join the Lab

We are actively recruiting for members of the REACH Lab! Please see below for more information.

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Ph.D. Program
Graduate Students
Start: Fall 2027
Program: USC Department of Psychology
Track: Clinical-Community Psychology

The REACH Lab welcomes prospective Ph.D. students interested in clinical neuropsychology, cognitive aging, health equity, social determinants of health, stress and adversity, dementia disparities, and digital approaches to cognitive assessment. Students will have opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary research examining how social and environmental experiences shape brain health and cognitive aging.

Strong applicants will have research experience, a commitment to scientific rigor, and an interest in conducting impactful, community-engaged research. Prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr. Prieto before applying with a brief introduction, CV, and a statement describing how their interests align with the lab's research program.

Express Interest
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USC Undergraduates
Research Assistants
Start: Fall 2026
Eligibility: USC Undergraduates
Format: Course Credit or Volunteer

The REACH Lab is seeking motivated undergraduate students interested in brain health, psychology, aging, neuroscience, and health equity. Research assistants gain hands-on experience with research methods, participant recruitment, data collection and management, literature reviews, and community outreach activities.

Prior research experience is not required. We value curiosity, reliability, initiative, and a genuine interest in understanding the factors that influence cognitive health across the lifespan. Students from all backgrounds and majors are encouraged to apply.

Interested students should submit a brief statement of interest along with their year, major, and CV or resume.

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Beyond the Academy

Community Partners

The REACH Lab is built on the belief that science cannot change the soil from inside the lab alone. We actively seek partnerships with community organizations, clinics, advocacy groups, and institutions who share our commitment to brain health equity. We welcome collaborations at any stage, from co-designing research questions to co-presenting findings to the communities we serve.

Community Health Organizations

Research Co-Design Partners

We partner with community health organizations, federally qualified health centers, and social service providers to co-design studies that reflect community priorities, use culturally grounded measures, and generate findings that are immediately actionable.

Start a Conversation
Patient & Advocacy Groups

Dissemination & Advocacy Partners

We collaborate with patient advocacy organizations and community leaders to translate findings into plain-language resources, policy briefs, and community presentations, ensuring research reaches the people it is meant to serve.

Partner With Us
Clinics & Healthcare Systems

Clinical Research Partners

We collaborate with neuropsychology clinics, memory care centers, and healthcare systems to conduct embedded research, improve access to cognitive screening, and examine real-world patterns in brain health disparities.

Inquire
Study Participants

Interested in Participating?

Our studies recruit community members across a range of ages and backgrounds. If you are interested in learning about current or upcoming research studies at the REACH Lab, please reach out to be added to our contact list.

Express Interest
Common Questions

FAQ

I'm interested in neuropsychology, but I'm not sure where to start. What resources do you recommend?
Here are a few resources worth bookmarking:
New2Neuropsych — A student-friendly site with career overviews, training pathway guides, and FAQs for those exploring neuropsychology as a profession.
How Your Application Will Be Evaluated — A practical breakdown of how clinical psychology PhD programs weigh research experience, GPA, personal statements, and fit when reviewing applicants.
Mitch's Guide to Grad School in Psychology — A widely-cited guide by Dr. Mitch Prinstein (UNC) with candid, practical advice on choosing programs, writing statements, navigating interviews, and finding the right fit.
What does the lab look for in applicants?
Intellectual curiosity, alignment with the lab's equity-centered values, strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively. We especially encourage applications from scholars whose backgrounds or experiences are underrepresented in neuropsychology.
Do I need prior research experience to apply as a Research Assistant?
No. We welcome motivated and curious USC undergraduates regardless of prior research experience. We value commitment, reliability, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for the lab's research more than previous research credentials.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Ability to commit approximately 10 hours per week
  • Availability to remain in the lab for at least four semesters (summer terms may count toward this requirement)
  • Interest in cognitive aging, brain health, health equity, neuropsychology, or related areas

Students from all backgrounds and majors are encouraged to apply.
When should I reach out about graduate school?
As early as possible, ideally 3 to 6 months before the application deadline. Send a brief email introducing yourself, your research interests, and why you think the REACH Lab is a good fit. Include your CV. This does not guarantee admission but helps Dr. Prieto assess fit before applications open.
Is the lab open to collaborations outside USC?
Yes. Dr. Prieto actively welcomes collaborations with researchers at other institutions, particularly those with expertise in health disparities, aging, neuroimaging, community-based participatory research, or implementation science.
Ready to connect?

Email Dr. Prieto

Whether you are a prospective student, community partner, collaborator, or study participant, we want to hear from you. Include your background, your interest in the lab, and any relevant materials.

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