Research Associate, Office of Health Research and Partnership

University of Montana•Missoula Mountain Campus, MT

About The Position

The Research Associate supports the development and implementation of health sciences research, workforce development, and partnership programs and projects within the University of Montana’s Office of Health Research and Partnership (OHRP). These efforts aim to address healthcare workforce needs and improve health outcomes in Montana and the surrounding region. The position supports strategic planning, workforce development, innovation initiatives, sustainable program development, and initiatives addressing healthcare challenges in rural and underserved Montana communities. It collects and analyzes quantitative and qualitative information; conducts literature reviews, policy analyses, and environmental scans; coordinates stakeholder engagement and partnerships; and develops evidence-informed recommendations, reports, policy briefs, presentations, and other deliverables. The role requires initiative, problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. The position is currently funded for one year and is a full-time, 1.0 FTE, one-year Letter of Appointment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public health, public policy, healthcare administration, health services research, social science, community health, or a closely related field.
Two years of experience conducting health policy, health services, program evaluation, implementation, or community-engaged research.
Foundational knowledge of research methods, policy analysis, program evaluation, healthcare delivery, population health, or community engagement.
Ability to collect, organize, manage, analyze, and interpret quantitative and qualitative information.
Experience supporting stakeholder interviews, focus groups, advisory committees, listening sessions, surveys, or other engagement activities.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, resolve routine problems, exercise sound judgment, and seek guidance when appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in public health, public policy, healthcare administration, health services research, social science, or a closely related field.
One year of experience working in a healthcare setting.
Strong research skills.
Demonstrated ability to work with healthcare, public health, and community stakeholders.
Strong technical-writing skills and experience contributing to policy briefs, research reports, feasibility studies, presentations, scholarly publications, grant materials, or government deliverables.
Demonstrated understanding of interdisciplinary work and collaboration.
Understanding of rural healthcare.

Responsibilities

Support the OHRP Director in strategic planning, workforce development, innovation initiatives, and sustainable program development.
Monitor program goals and support initiatives addressing healthcare challenges in rural and underserved Montana communities.
Collect, manage, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data related to health policy, healthcare delivery, population health, and health services.
Conduct literature reviews, policy analyses, and environmental scans to inform program planning, feasibility assessments, and recommendations.
Coordinate stakeholder engagement, develop data collection tools, and maintain partnerships with healthcare organizations, government agencies, community partners, and subject-matter experts.
Integrate research findings, data analyses, and stakeholder feedback to develop evidence-informed recommendations and strategies.
Prepare reports, policy briefs, presentations, and other deliverables while ensuring compliance with applicable privacy, security, and research requirements.
Collaborate with internal and external partners to coordinate projects, communicate progress, and complete research, policy, and administrative activities with increasing independence.