Research Specialist

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How to Apply

To apply for this job please upload (combined into ONE PDF) a CV/resume, cover letter, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to this position. All inquiries about the position can be sent to Dr. Dominique Kinnett-Hopkins ([email protected]).

Job Summary

The Translational Physical Activity Laboratory (TPAL) at the School of Kinesiology seeks a detail-oriented, self-motivated individual to serve as a full-time Research Specialist. This individual is expected to work independently with the guidance of the lab director. This person will manage the day-to-day activities of behavioral research studies, work with a team of investigators and students, interface with participants, and complete laboratory tasks in a timely manner.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

  • Generous time off
  • A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
  • Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
  • Maternity and parental leave
  • University commitment to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities

Responsibilities*

Essential Functions are noted with an "EF"

  • Managing day-to-day operations within the laboratory, including supervising and reviewing the work of students, scheduling meetings, ordering supplies, reviewing and developing internal documents and materials such as SOPs (30%) (EF); 
  • Managing and coordinating recruitment, scheduling, and enrollment of participants (15%) (EF);
  • Collecting, managing, processing, and analyzing data (15%) (EF); 
  • Assisting with the preparation of conference abstracts, manuscripts, and grant proposals (15%);
  • Assist in project management and planning for all aspects of data collection and data processing for research studies (10%);
  • Prepare study materials, including study surveys (e.g., REDCap, Qualtrics) and patient-facing materials (10%)(EF);
  • Searching and evaluating scientific literature (5%)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed and are not an exhaustive list of all associated responsibilities.

Required Qualifications*

  • A bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., kinesiology, public health, epidemiology, behavioral science, exercise or health science, health education and health promotion, medicine, psychology)
  • 1 to 3 years of related research coordination experience
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative, yet seek supervision as appropriate
  • Excellent organizational skills with the capacity to manage and coordinate several study-related tasks concurrently
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work with others in a dynamic, collaborative environment. This position involves close interaction with faculty, staff, graduate/undergraduate students, and community-based participants
  • Proven success with contributing to a positive workplace culture, and ability to consistently demonstrate our school's core values.

Desired Qualifications*

  • Master's degree is preferred, in related field 
  • Supervisory experience
  • Prior experience in the area of clinical or community research, or other experiences relevant to the multiple sclerosis and/or lupus community
  • Applicants with prior research experience and adequate programming skills (e.g., R) will be given preference

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

This is a term-limited appointment, funded for 18 months; the initial appointment may be extended depending on the availability of research funds and successful performance. The salary range for this position is $45,000 - $55,000, commensurate with education and experience. Offers may be extended outside the posted salary range based on equity, experience, knowledge, and skills for this role. Applicants are encouraged to ask questions about salary and benefits openly in the recruiting process.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.