Research Assistant, Department of Psychology

The Clark-Hill Institute for Positive Youth Development in the Department of Psychology is hiring multiple research assistants for a community-based project aiming to promote healthy communities for youth. We are currently hiring staff to assist with the community survey data collection, which is scheduled to be conducted between August 2025 and September 2026. The research assistants will work in selected Richmond City communities, on campus, and/or remotely, to recruit study participants and facilitate data collection activities involving sensitive, confidential information.

The Duties & Responsibilities of assessment staff include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Traveling to community locations in the participating communities and neighborhoods to identify and recruit potential eligible participants.
• Introducing the study to parents/caregivers of eligible school-aged youth and young adults.
• Conducting the informed consent and assent process in-person or by phone.
• Conducting phone surveys with participants who request them in lieu of the online survey.
• Maintaining appropriate documentation and following established study protocol and human subjects protection standards and guidelines as set forth by the funding agency and the VCU Institutional Review Board.
• Participating in staff meetings and trainings.
• This is an hourly position with varied hours averaging from 6-15 hours per week, with a requirement to work some weekend hours.
  
  

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• The ideal candidates will have some research and community work experience and be comfortable working with underserved populations.
• Have a strong passion and commitment to improving the quality of life for youth and families living in the Richmond community.
• Possess good interpersonal skills – in-person, by phone, and in writing.
• Comfortable communicating with residents by phone, email, and/or text and in their homes and communities.
• Comfortable working outside in selected neighborhoods within the City of Richmond, including public housing communities.
• Flexibility to work some evening and weekend hours, and some holidays.
• Ability to adapt and adjust to changing work plans and environments.
• Comfortable using basic computer, mobile, and virtual technology, and familiarity with G-Suite, especially Google drive, docs, sheets, and forms.
• Strong time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to complete work accurately and independently.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous research work experience.
• Minimum of one-year experience working in community service, health or social service sector.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Public Health, Psychology, Sociology, or a related discipline).
  
  

Salary Range: $20 - $24/hour

Benefits: All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Flexible Work Arrangement: Hybrid

University Job Title: 34001N - Clinical Research Assistant 1