What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant position at The University of Pittsburgh?
Research Assistant
The employee will be responsible for managing and conducting multiple mental health services research projects focused on populations labelled with serious mental illness (SMI) on and supervising staff on these projects at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work. Current projects which includes NIMH funded mental health services research grants (focused on early intervention in psychosis and community mental health services), and other related projects. Primary responsibilities involve overseeing the assignment and completion of assessments of or interviews with participants; independently designing, planning, and maintaining research protocols; supervising the maintenance of IRB protocol compliance and complete of protocol renewals; administering assessments to study participants; supervising the development and operationalization of subject recruitment methods; and independently supervising the coordination all associated research activities, including data collection, input, and analysis locally and in collaboration with other institutions, collaborators, and research sites. Other responsibilities include attending weekly project meetings, supervising the responsible distribution of participant payments under the formal payment system, and supervising the maintenance of accurate research records. The research specialist will also supervise the obtaining of informed consent from potential research participants according to ethical principles as directed by the PI. In addition to these supervisory duties, the research specialist will be have proficiency in and conduct all of these activities as needed and directed by the PI.
The School of Social Work at Pitt is consistently ranked among the top schools of social work in the nation. The School is known for its strong educational programs at the BASW, MSW, and PhD levels and national leadership on race and social problems, child welfare, and health and mental health. The social work values of the School permeate into its operations as well. Our devotion to diversity begins with our staff and faculty who bring a wide variety of experiences to our classrooms and our offices. Our excellent leadership and supervisors are people-focused, communicative, and supportive of your professional development – funding is set aside to help employees pay for development opportunities (training seminars, conferences, etc.).
Conducts research assessments on study participants. Assists with and adheres to Institutional Review Board (IRB) renewal, modification, and approved protocols. Assists with training staff. Ensures adherence to protocols and corrects issues with data collection.
Supervising research staff, research protocol, data administration, IRB administration.
Typical office actions (computer usage, data and IRB review, etc.). Occasionally might have to lift objects under 25 pounds.
The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.
