The Humans of the Triple I Lab series shines the spotlight on graduate and undergraduate students conducting research in the Triple I Lab. We are pleased to introduce you to Dan, an undergraduate student in Financial Math and Economics. Dan is helping Amelia, Manal, Shirin, Natasha and Nicole conduct research on topics like negotiations, entrepreneurship and emotions and finances.
How did you become a research assistant/co-op student at the Triple-I Lab?
In my previous internship working with Vice-Dean of Faculty Affairs Darlene Himick, I had the chance to join and assist the Triple I Lab’s team for two weeks and really enjoyed the experience. She later informed me that the lab was considering hiring a co-op student for the upcoming semester. Since I was looking for an internship at that time, I reached out to Amelia, with whom I had worked in the lab, to learn more about the research analyst position. As soon as the opportunity was posted, I applied right away, and I was selected in the following weeks.
What is the research project you are helping with?
I am involved in several projects. I assist Manal with research on Machiavellianism traits in negotiations, Shirin with the role of entrepreneur's expressed emotions during their pitches and Natasha and Nicole with a study on emotions and finances.
What are your main tasks?
My main tasks at the Triple-I Lab include supporting researchers and PhD students with data collection and analysis using iMotions and FaceReader. I clean datasets with Excel and R, compare facial and voice analysis software, and create or translate user guides. I also help troubleshoot hardware and software issues, set up Biopac equipment, and explore new features in our licensed tools to optimize their use.
What do you like most about being a Research Assistant/co-op student?
What I enjoy most is the chance to learn and grow in a supportive environment. Every project is different, so I get to explore new tools and ideas. I like combining technical work with understanding what the data really means. The atmosphere is collaborative; everyone is willing to help and share feedback. I also appreciate the opportunity to use different high-tech equipment, which makes the experience even more rewarding.
If you had to give one key piece of advice to undergraduate students interested in research and the types of technology we have in the lab, what would you say?
I’d say to get involved early, even if it’s just through volunteering at the lab. It’s the best way to see what research is really like and to get hands-on experience with the technology. Being part of the lab environment helps you understand how experiments work, how data is collected, and what using the equipment actually feels like. That experience can really spark your interest and help you decide if research is something you want to do later on.
What’s your favorite spot or piece of equipment in the Triple-I Lab, and why?
The license key. It’s an important and really expensive tool and I really appreciate that I’m trusted to handle it independently. It makes me feel valued and responsible.
