Research Associate I

University of Denver•Denver, CO

18h•Remote

About The Position

The Research Associate I is an integral member of the Institute for Human-Animal Connection (IHAC) Research program at the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work. The role oversees research project management, including data collection, internal project teams, research assistants, and potentially Research Fellows and graduate student interns. Responsibilities also include contributing to grant proposals and study design, statistical and qualitative analysis and interpretation, and preparing manuscripts and conference abstracts. The position may help design studies examining how incorporating justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion considerations in companion animal welfare programs can promote positive health outcomes. The Research Associate I collaborates with the Principal Investigator, Co-Investigators, Research Fellows, Research Assistants, external agencies, and community stakeholders to implement research activities. The position is full time and currently funded through June 2027. Travel may be required to conduct research and share findings. Remote work is possible, with availability for Zoom meetings during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time. Remote team members may also be asked to travel in person for special events.

Requirements

Graduate degree in the social or physical sciences (MA, MS, or MSW) plus at least 3 years of direct research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Broad research skills, including qualitative and/or quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and interpretation.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, research and evaluation participants, sponsors, supervisees, and university staff.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strong understanding of inferential statistics and/or qualitative analysis techniques.
Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Excel, SPSS, and Dedoose or comparable software.
Demonstrated skills and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including approaching work with diverse communities respectfully and with humility.
Ability to translate research findings into practice for multiple audiences using a variety of techniques.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English; Spanish is of particular interest.
Work experience in related fields such as animal sheltering or animal control outreach services, community organizing, human service case management, public health administration, or environmental health and safety.
At least two years of experience in research or evaluation of interventions, including participation in quantitative and/or qualitative studies and the ability to lead components of those studies.
At least one year of project management experience, including supervising or coordinating teams, providing strategy and support to leadership, and managing time effectively.

Responsibilities

Oversee research project management, including project teams and research activities.
Manage data collection, data management, and analysis.
Contribute to research project design and grant proposals.
Conduct or contribute to statistical analysis and interpretation, and qualitative analysis and interpretation.
Help write research manuscripts and conference abstracts.
Oversee research assistants and help supervise Research Fellows; potentially mentor graduate student interns.
Collaborate with investigators, research staff, external agencies, and community stakeholders to implement research activities.
Support the design of studies on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in companion animal welfare programs and related health outcomes.
Report research findings and translate them into practice for multiple audiences.
Participate in hiring and supervision activities.