Research Assistant I

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences • Little Rock, AR

8d

About The Position

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans. The Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI) is a health policy organization that is administratively housed within the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Since its inception in 1998, ACHI has become widely recognized as a reliable source for local and national health and health industry information. This includes providing critical data, analyses, and strategies that drive decisions and shape health policy. ACHI has served as a major contributor and trusted health policy leader in statewide efforts to improve the health of Arkansans and to drive innovation and efficiency for the state’s healthcare delivery system. The Research Assistant will primarily support ACHI’s Health Policy team by contributing to a variety of policy, research, and grant-related activities. A successful candidate should have strong writing, organizational, and critical thinking skills and interest in building experience in health policy and research. Duties will include supporting research activities by conducting literature reviews, background research, and data compilation to inform policy work, publications, and internal project development. This individual will assist with policy analyses related to healthcare system access, quality, financing, and population health. This individual will work with key personnel on identifying funding opportunities; prepare, edit and critique grant proposals; and ensure adherence to formatting and submission guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social science, Public Policy, Health Administration, Finance/Economics, or related field plus one (1) year of experience in research, policy analysis, or editing/writing. Or Master’s degree plus one (1) year of relevant experience.
• Advanced knowledge of English grammar, syntax, usage, and editing marks and proficiency in communicating effectively in written and spoken English.
• General knowledge of style, content, and format requirements used in grant applications and medical journals.
• Basic knowledge of journal publication process, grant peer-review process, and sources of grant funding.
• Intermediate knowledge of organizational, visual, and textual factors that promote readability, as well as ways to appropriately present numerical data.
• Broad knowledge of grant writing for federal and foundation sources.
• Mastery of word processing and a working knowledge of desktop publishing.
• Must have the ability to: Work closely with investigators in preparing grant applications and manuscripts by providing editorial and writing assistance to effectively communicate scientific research ideas and data. Work both independently and as part of a team. Think critically and organize information into a logical and compelling format. Respond to changing priorities and assignments. Meet deadlines and/or work on a deadline-driven schedule.

Responsibilities

• Research and Policy Support (50%): Conduct research/policy analysis using source material such as journals, periodicals, historical records, legislation, and related reports and/or conduct interviews with project participants to gather data. Conduct literature reviews, background research, and data compilation. Review research and policy information for accuracy and industry validity. May extract, organize, and prepare data for reports, presentations, and other deliverables according to project guidelines Prepare and format materials used in policy presentations, stakeholder meetings, and internal planning. Assist in grant proposal development and activities related to grant-funded projects.
• Grant Development and Funding Support (40%): Identify and track potential funding opportunities to advance ACHI objectives. Contribute to the preparation, editing, and formatting of grant applications, progress reports, and related materials. Assist with organizing and coordinating grant-related meetings and internal reviews. Collaborate with key personnel to ensure grant materials meet submission guidelines and funder requirements for clarity, accuracy, and formatting. Participate in the development of grant narratives and supplemental materials under the guidance of senior staff. Meets deadlines for assigned projects and communicate with the Policy Director if delays are expected or occur.
• Other duties as assigned (10%): Professional development and other duties assigned, such as strategic planning, creating a project schedule, setting deadlines, and facilitating effective communication and interaction among investigators and staff. Develop and/or maintain professional knowledge and skills by participating in continuing education activities and professional organizations. Remain current on style, content, format, and general guideline requirements for major federal funders (e.g., NIH). Stay abreast of trends in the federal funding environment and grant review process.

Benefits

• Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family
• Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave
• Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only)
• Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS
• Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000
• Career Training and Educational Opportunities
• Merchant Discounts
• Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacy

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level