Qualitative Research Lead

ZS • Indianapolis, IN

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Partner with cross-functional ZS and client teams to design and deliver impactful qualitative research addressing complex challenges across clinical development, clinical trials, and the patient experience. Bring methodological expertise and a patient-centered perspective to help clients make informed decisions throughout the clinical trial lifecycle. Provide strategic insight, methodological leadership, and quality oversight while developing qualitative research capabilities across ZS. Support business development and client engagement, and contribute to innovative methods, frameworks, and thought leadership that advance patient-centered clinical research.

The role uses a hybrid working model, combining work from home with on-site presence at client or ZS offices for the majority of the week. Travel is required for client-facing ZSers as dictated by project and client needs. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• At least 7 years of progressive qualitative research experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical research, or broader healthcare industry, including meaningful experience supporting clinical trials or clinical development.
• Strong understanding of the clinical development landscape, clinical trial lifecycle, patient and site experiences, and challenges involving trial design, feasibility, recruitment, enrollment, and retention.
• Demonstrated experience conducting qualitative research with patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, investigators, clinical trial site personnel, and other healthcare stakeholders.
• Deep expertise in qualitative research design, discussion guide development, moderation, analysis, synthesis, and insight generation.
• Extensive hands-on moderation experience, including in-depth interviews, focus groups, and other qualitative approaches, with ability to navigate nuanced or sensitive healthcare discussions.
• Ability to translate research into practical recommendations that inform clinical development strategies and patient-centered trial design.
• Strong consulting, client management, and collaboration skills, including experience partnering across project teams, managing research workstreams, and communicating with senior stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills; ability to present complex findings as clear, persuasive, actionable client deliverables.
• Experience mentoring others, developing research approaches, or contributing to methodological innovation.
• Fluency in English.
• Client-first mentality, intense work ethic, collaborative spirit, and problem-solving approach.
• Authorization to work in the United States without employer visa sponsorship now or in the future.
• Online application including a full set of official or unofficial transcripts is required.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in public health, psychology, behavioral or social sciences, life sciences, health services research, or a related field; equivalent relevant professional experience will also be considered.

Responsibilities

• Partner with cross-functional ZS and client teams to design and deliver qualitative research across clinical development, clinical trials, and patient experience.
• Drive qualitative research excellence across the clinical trial lifecycle, informing trial design, protocol feasibility, patient burden, recruitment, enrollment, retention, and overall trial experience.
• Design and execute fit-for-purpose research using methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, advisory boards, ethnography, and other approaches.
• Develop tailored research frameworks and materials, including discussion guides and interview protocols, to uncover insights from patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, investigators, and clinical trial stakeholders.
• Lead and moderate complex qualitative discussions across diverse stakeholder groups, addressing sensitive healthcare topics with empathy, curiosity, and methodological rigor.
• Synthesize qualitative findings into compelling insights, strategic implications, and actionable recommendations for clinical development and trial-related decisions.
• Provide methodological leadership and quality oversight in research design, moderation, analysis, and insight generation.
• Build qualitative research capabilities through coaching, knowledge sharing, and advancing best practices for clinical development research.
• Support business development and client engagement by identifying opportunities, shaping research strategies, and developing qualitative research proposals.
• Contribute to the development of new methodologies, frameworks, and thought leadership in patient-centered clinical research.
• Travel as needed based on project and client business needs.

Benefits

• Comprehensive total rewards package supporting health and well-being, financial future, time away, and professional development.
• Skills-building programs and multiple career progression paths.
• Internal mobility opportunities.
• Collaborative culture and opportunities for professional growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed