Research Associate WPIC (Part Time) | McGuier lab

at  UPMC

We are seeking a part-time Research Associate to join Dr. Elizabeth McGuier’s lab. Dr. McGuier’s lab aims to improve mental health outcomes for children who experience maltreatment through better implementation of evidence-based practices and expansion of mental health services into non-traditional settings. Our research programs have a team-focused, collegial atmosphere where people enjoy working together and supporting each other’s efforts.
The Research Associate will perform research-related and administrative functions in support of ongoing studies. Tasks may include preparing study materials, developing web-based surveys, clerical tasks, data entry, conducting and transcribing qualitative interviews, contributing to qualitative data analysis, and other tasks as needed. Opportunities to contribute to conference presentations and academic articles are possible.
Most tasks will be conducted remotely (e.g., videoconference, phone/text) and will rely upon different technologies (e.g., Zoom, MS TEAMS). Some flexibility in work schedule, including evenings and weekends, may be required to meet the needs of participants. This position may be fully remote. Willingness and ability to travel to study sites in rural Pennsylvania is preferred.
Ideal candidates will have strong interpersonal, organizational, and written/oral communication skills; be detail-oriented; have strong time management skills and ability to work independently; and be committed to improving outcomes for children who experience maltreatment. Individuals from groups historically excluded from research and those with lived experience in the child welfare system are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Help to implement all protocol activities and ensure that the correct protocol procedures (as outlined in the approved IRB documents) are followed.
• Create and maintain web-based surveys for data collection.
• Maintain and update study documents, ensuring that information is accurate, up to date, and complete.
• Conduct qualitative interviews with research participants under supervision. Some interviews may be conducted during evenings and/or weekends.
• Track participant engagement in study activities, including training, web-based surveys, and qualitative interviews.
• Assist with distribution of participant payments.
• Attend recurring meetings with the principal investigator and other study staff. Maintain ongoing communication with the investigator and staff regarding participants, protocol, and data management issues.
• Conduct online and/or library searches as needed by the PI as necessary.
• Maintain adequate supplies for research data collection.
• Communicate project needs, issues, and problems quickly to reduce the effect on program efficiency to the appropriate supervisory staff.
• Maintain professional demeanor in all interactions with community partners and other professionals, including but not limited to the office of grants and contracts, co-investigators, consultants, funding source project managers, the University of Pittsburgh IRB, and fellow research program staff.
• Perform other related responsibilities as required in order to maintain smooth organization and flow of the project.
• Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Counseling, Criminal Justice, Sociology or related field.
• Prior research experience and knowledge of research methodology are preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience working directly with children and/or their families is preferred.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to details, and ability to prioritize among multiple tasks.
• The capacity for analytic and independent judgment; attention to detail, and the ability to meet frequent deadlines required. Capable of monitoring several projects, deadlines, and initiatives simultaneously, while working effectively and accurately on each.
• Familiarity with computers and common software packages required. Knowledge of SPSS and/or other statistical programs is preferred but not required.