HS Research Assistant

The University of New Mexico•Albuquerque, NM

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The College of Pharmacy is seeking a resourceful, dynamic, and detail-oriented individual to join its team. The College of Pharmacy has been educating students since 1945 and is the only College of Pharmacy in the state of New Mexico. It offers a supportive environment with a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, a cutting-edge curriculum, and personalized mentorship. The College is a leader in NIH funding, focusing on groundbreaking research in environmental toxicology (human exposure to heavy metals and microplastics) and Substance Use Disorder. The College has graduated over 3,400 students, and 81% of New Mexico’s pharmacist workforce are alumni. Located on UNM’s Health Sciences Campus, it actively advances pharmacy practice and clinical care. The HS Research Assistant provides entry-level support to health sciences laboratory and/or field research activities, offering professional and responsive service to researchers, study participants, and stakeholders. This role involves assisting with routine research activities such as gathering information, maintaining records, supporting study procedures, and responding to inquiries within established guidelines. The assistant works closely with researchers and senior staff to ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently, following established procedures. The HS Research Assistant works under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator and collaborates with the research team to support study activities and project goals.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
No previous experience required
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
A valid New Mexico driver's license will be required if a motor vehicle must be operated on the job.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Ability to complete and maintain all required research compliance training and certifications, including human subjects research and other study-specific training, as required.

Nice To Haves

Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
Ability to use computerized systems, databases, email, and other common technologies.
Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.
Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with research participants from diverse backgrounds.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams, and experience with or ability to learn research data management and survey platforms such as REDCap.

Responsibilities

Provides courteous and professional assistance to researchers, study participants, staff, and other individuals involved in research activities.
Supports the collection, organization, processing, and verification of research information, samples, and/or specimens according to established procedures.
Assists with routine study activities, which may include participant interviews, testing, observations, surveys, and other research-related tasks.
Responds to routine questions and requests, provides clear information, and refers complex or specialized issues to appropriate personnel.
Enters, updates, and maintains accurate information in computerized systems, databases, and research records.
Assists with the use, setup, and routine care of research equipment, instruments, and work areas.
Performs basic data review and assists with organizing information for analysis or reporting.
Communicates effectively with team members and follows established procedures to ensure a consistent and positive experience for research participants and other customers.
Travels daily to research sites, including a local jail, to support data collection, participant interactions, and other study-related activities.
The position requires regular on-site interaction with research participants in a correctional setting and the ability to meet all facility requirements for entry and access.
Follows all applicable research protocols, regulatory and institutional requirements, departmental policies and procedures, quality and safety standards, and confidentiality requirements.
Completes and maintains required research compliance training throughout employment.
Maintains confidentiality and handles sensitive research and participant information appropriately.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Work with and assist research team members in research activities and perform miscellaneous administrative duties as needed.
Work on independent projects as discussed by the supervisor.
Perform online research according to project requirements.
Perform miscellaneous job-related and administrative duties as assigned.