Research Associate - Open Rank

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

1d•$40,000 - $73,000

About The Position

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate provides operational support to the laboratory and performs research experiments as defined by the PI. This is an open-rank posting with four levels; candidates will be hired at a level commensurate with their experience. The position supports one or more NIH-sponsored research studies related to early development and early identification of children with developmental disabilities, health systems and service access, and implementation of best practices in community settings. Projects involve cross-site collaboration and close work with research and community partners at other institutions. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center works to understand and improve challenges faced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder and behavioral health disorders, and to support their families. Its work includes conducting research, delivering educational programs, developing leaders, offering inclusive and person- and family-centered programs and services, and partnering with local and national organizations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience.
Basic understanding of laboratory safety and protocols.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
Ability to analyze data quantitatively and objectively.
Ability to work in a team environment.
Research Associate II: 18 months of relevant research experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science, or no experience with a related Master’s degree.
Research Associate III: 3 or more years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science, or 1 year of relevant research experience with a related Master’s degree.
Research Associate IV: 5 or more years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science, or 3 or more years of relevant research experience with a related Master’s degree.

Nice To Haves

Experience with database development and management.
Comfort interfacing with families, caregivers, and professionals during recruitment and data collection.
Demonstrated organizational skills and independent problem solving.
Interest in developmental disabilities and health equity.
Bilingual in English and Spanish; bilingual candidates are especially encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments, ranging from assigned experiments to independently designed and complex experiments depending on rank.
Use relevant software and equipment, analyze and interpret data, form conclusions, and determine next steps in consultation with or independently from the PI, depending on rank.
Maintain accurate records and detailed laboratory notebooks; record results according to laboratory, sponsor, and university protocols.
Review literature, publications, and grants relevant to assigned projects.
Assist with data analysis and mathematical computations; compile and present data in formats suitable for publication when required by rank.
Present findings at laboratory or group meetings.
Monitor or manage laboratory supplies and place orders; negotiate with suppliers or vendors to optimize resources, depending on rank.
Prepare and label buffers, media, and solutions.
Comply with safety regulations, infection-control standards, applicable policies and agreements, and relevant IACUC, IRB, EHS, and radiation-safety protocols.
Draft, identify, develop, or modify laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures with required PI approval and in compliance with EHS regulations.
Identify problems and challenges, propose resolutions, and implement appropriate solutions.
Train and mentor laboratory personnel and direct research support staff, as applicable to rank.
Monitor laboratory equipment service contracts and coordinate or manage equipment maintenance, depending on rank.
Manage laboratory operations, including personnel, procedures, and projects, as applicable to rank.
Monitor laboratory spending and assist with budget and operational aspects of grants, contracts, and proposals, as applicable to rank.
Contribute to manuscript and grant writing, as applicable to rank.
Perform other duties as required.