Visiting Research Specialist - COIP
Hiring Department : COIP
Location : Chicago, IL USA
Requisition ID : 1025247
Posting Close Date : May 21, 2024
About the University of Illinois Chicago
UIC is among the nation's preeminent urban public research universities, a Carnegie RU/VH research institution, and the largest university in Chicago. UIC serves over 34,000 students, comprising one of the most diverse student bodies in the nation and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Through its 16 colleges, UIC produces nationally and internationally recognized multidisciplinary academic programs in concert with civic, corporate and community partners worldwide, including a full complement of health sciences colleges. By emphasizing cutting-edge and transformational research along with a commitment to the success of all students, UIC embodies the dynamic, vibrant and engaged urban university. Recent "Best Colleges" rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, found UIC climbed up in its rankings among top public schools in the nation and among all national universities. UIC has nearly 260,000 alumni, and is one of the largest employers in the city of Chicago.
Description:
Position Summary
The Visiting Research Specialist will be responsible in engaging in community-outreach based research and will provide point-of-care drug checking services using FTIR spectroscopy alongside immunoassay test strips, as part of the implementation of new research project at Community Outreach Intervention Projects (COIP). The role will also include interpreting of research results, providing harm reduction education, and offering relevant referrals to service users when needed. Training in operation of the FTIR will be offered on site. This position will work collaboratively with organizational staff to provide comprehensive and wrap-around harm reduction services. Additionally, this role will be involved in the planning, design and implementation of a new drug checking protocol, including development of procedures, collection of data, data management, and will serve as an expert researcher to project leadership.
Duties & Responsibilities

Analyze and evaluate drug samples submitted by service users using FTIR spectroscopy and immunoassay test strips.

Interpret research findings from multiple data sources and effectively communicate results to service users.

Provide non-judgmental and evidence-based information about a wide variety of drugs, adulterants, and cuts to service users. Offer harm reduction counseling based on drug checking results. Connect service users to other resources as necessary.

Collect data on submitted samples and results. Integrate initial FTIR testing results with complementary testing results. Develop and maintain data collection protocols and documents as needed.

Assist in the creation of a database for project research findings, and collaboration with other funded drug-checking projects.

Coordinate with secondary verification labs and develop procedures for packaging, mailing, and tracking samples submitted for further analysis, maintaining ongoing data analysis comparing laboratory results with point of care results for quality assurance and training.

Facilitate the handling and storage of drug samples, as well as submitting drug samples for further laboratory testing.

Be responsible for the set-up, take down, transportation, and maintenance of delicate analytical chemistry equipment.

Collaborate with other researchers, including harm reduction specialists, outreach workers, and project managers, to ensure seamless and effective service delivery.

Stay up to date on the latest trends, developments, and innovations related to drug checking, harm reduction, and substance use to enhance the overall effectiveness of the program.

Assist with the developments of best practices for drug checking projects, identify advanced educational activities and research opportunities.

Assist in the dissemination of findings to a variety of stakeholders to advance the field of drug checking.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in social science or related field required. Master's degree in social science preferred.
A minimum of 3 years related research experience.
Possesses and applies comprehensive knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices and methods.
Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of existing drug checking literature and practice, and a willingness to stay up to date with new research, techniques, and protocols for drug checking
• Experience working in a harm reduction or public health setting with people who use drugs, highly marginalized populations, and/or people experiencing homelessness
• Understanding of, or previous experience using an FTIR is helpful but not required. Training will be provided on site. Interest in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, forensic science, or a related field is preferred.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other Microsoft and Google suite applications. Ability to learn new computer software.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in sample analysis and data recording.
• Ability to think critically about data interpretation, has a knack for synthesizing research, and a love of reading and learning about drugs.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
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