Part Time - Nursing - Research Assistant

Penn State University • University Park, PA

96d • $20 • Hybrid

About The Position

The College of Nursing at Penn State University is seeking three dedicated and detail-oriented part-time Research Assistants to support a cutting-edge project funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). This project, "Center for Immersive Learning and Digital Innovation: A Patient Safety Learning Lab," aims to advance patient safety through design, systems engineering, and health services research. The research focuses on developing and evaluating innovative solutions such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and robotic systems to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and improve patient outcomes.

Requirements

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in research settings, particularly with clinical research and human subjects' protocols, is preferred.
• Proficiency in using computer databases and familiarity with research software tools.
• A Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field, plus relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist with data collection, entry, and management to ensure accuracy and compliance with study protocols.
• Conduct preliminary data analysis under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Investigators.
• Maintain detailed and organized records of all data and activities.
• Support participant recruitment, consent, and engagement activities.
• Coordinate participant schedules and ensure timely follow-up for study activities.
• Assist in maintaining participant confidentiality and adherence to ethical guidelines.
• Contribute to progress reports and project documentation.
• Coordinate with the Research Coordinator and other team members to maintain effective communication and workflow.
• Participate in regular team meetings to discuss project progress and address any challenges.
• Manage VR equipment and data for the Virtual Reality Research Assistant role.
• Ensure proper setup and maintenance of VR systems for study participants.
• Focus on MR activities and data for the Mixed Reality Research Assistant role.
• Support the development and implementation of MR-based study protocols.
• Oversee robotic systems and data collection for the Robotics Research Assistant role.
• Assist with the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of robotic equipment.
• Ensure compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
• Assist with maintaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols and study documentation.

Benefits

• Hourly rate of $20, totaling $4,160 annually per assistant, plus fringe benefits.
• Possibility of re-funding based on project progress and funding availability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree