Research Assistant Professor

The University of Utah • Salt Lake, UT

13d

About The Position

The Research Psychologist faculty member will play a crucial role in conducting innovative research projects focusing on maternal-child health, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge, and promoting evidence-based practices in the field of psychology. The successful candidate will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across obstetrics, neonatology and pediatrics, engage in data collection, ultimately resulting in the dissemination of research findings through publications and presentations. The candidate will be jointly employed by the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics. Candidates will also have the opportunity to participate in the clinical care setting through the Utah Developmental Assessment Clinics at the University of Utah.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology (or a related field) from an accredited institution. A focus on research methodologies, experimental design, and childhood neurodevelopmental testing is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting psychological research or training that would enable success in performing and interpreting exams under the direction of pediatricians and psychologists who are leading multi-center research projects, and study data coordinating centers. Testing would include exams such as the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development 3 and 4, Wechsler Preschool andPrimary Scale of Intelligence, and the Differential Ability Scales ( DAS ) II School Age and Early Years, Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing ( CTOPP ) and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule ( ADOS ).
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, and collaborate with other clinicians, healthcare professionals, and research study personnel.
• Strong understanding of ethical considerations in research involving human participants and the ability to adhere to institutional and regulatory guidelines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present neurodevelopmental testing findings in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Proactive approach to research, willingness to explore innovative research approaches, and ability to think critically and creatively.
• Ability to work effectively with young children and their families, including children with physical, emotional and cognitive differences , to ensure a positive interaction with the research team.
• Interest in performing clinical assessments in young children in collaboration with the Utah Development Assessment Clinics team.
• Ability to develop research questions, contribute to planning multidisciplinary projects focused on child development, and ultimately pursue independent grant funding as either a Principal Investigator or as a co-investigator on other team members’ grant submissions.

Responsibilities

• Complete childhood neurodevelopmental testing for research studies (primarily National Institutes of Health funding), utilizing appropriate methodologies, to investigate various psychological phenomena and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
• Follow study protocols, including surveys, interviews, behavioral observations, and psychological tests. Interpret data for entry in on-line research tools and assist research teams with interpretation of research test results.
• Work closely with other researchers, psychologists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals to foster collaboration and ensure rigorous completion of study procedures and for clinical care (if clinical care component is desired).
• Ensure research activities adhere to ethical standards, including obtaining appropriate informed consent, protecting participant confidentiality, and following institutional and regulatory guidelines.
• Assist in the management of research study visits related to child neurodevelopment.
• Keep abreast of current developments and emerging trends and participate in professional development activities.
• Participate in clinical assessments of young children for neurodevelopmental disorders.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees