Research Dietitian

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Dell Medical School is seeking a Research Dietitian. This position has an end date of 12/31/30 but may be renewable based upon availability of funding, work performance, and progress toward goals. The Research Dietitian supports clinical and translational research studies by designing, implementing, and evaluating nutrition‑related research activities across inpatient, outpatient, ambulatory, and remote research environments. This role applies nutrition science principles to research protocols, dietary interventions, and outcome measurement, without providing independent or individualized medical nutrition therapy (MNT). The Research Dietitian collaborates closely with principal investigators, physicians, advanced practice providers, research coordinators, biostatisticians, and IRB staff to ensure study feasibility, regulatory compliance, data integrity, and participant safety. Core responsibilities include protocol development, participant assessments as defined by research design, education, remote data collection, and documentation in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

Requirements

Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition, Nutritional Sciences, Clinical Research, Public Health, Epidemiology, or a closely related field.
4 years of relevant experience in human subjects research, nutrition research, clinical research, or healthcare research and including general professional experience in healthcare, research, or academic environments.
Demonstrated knowledge of nutrition science, research methodologies, and regulatory requirements (IRB, GCP).

Nice To Haves

Preference given to Nutrition or Nutritional Sciences education.
Master's Degree in Nutrition, Nutritional Sciences, Clinical Research, Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field with a research concentration, thesis, or capstone project.
4 years of experience in supporting human subjects research, including clinical, translational, or population‑based studies.
Experience working in an academic medical center, large integrated healthcare system, or research institute.
Demonstrated experience supporting NIH‑, foundation‑, or industry‑sponsored research.
Experience with decentralized, hybrid, or virtual clinical trials, including remote data collection or participant engagement.
Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, nutrition research databases, and remote research tools.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Licensed Dietitian (LD) or Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), as required by Texas law.
Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification.
Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP).

Responsibilities

Designs and Implements Research Nutrition Protocols: Develops standardized, protocol-driven nutrition interventions aligned with study aims and approved research protocols; does not independently prescribe individualized medical nutrition therapy.
Translates research objectives into feasible dietary methodologies.
Reviews protocols for nutritional accuracy, safety, and regulatory alignment.
Modifies interventions in accordance with approved study protocols, amendments, and investigator direction; does not independently alter interventions at the individual participant level outside of approved study parameters.
Conducts Participant Nutrition Assessments and Interventions: Conducts protocol-defined nutrition assessments and data collection as specified within approved research protocols.
Conducts nutrition assessments and study-specific education via secure telehealth platforms when permitted by study design and regulation.
Provides protocol-specific participant education related to study requirements without providing individualized medical nutrition therapy.
Supports Regulatory and Compliance Activities: Ensures compliance with IRB, FDA, and GCP requirements.
Prepares nutrition-related sections of IRB submissions and amendments.
Maintains accurate source documentation and audit-ready files.
Participates in study monitoring visits and regulatory audits.
Collects, Analyzes, and Manages Research Data: Collects and manages dietary and outcome data using remote research tools and electronic data capture systems.
Ensures data accuracy, consistency, and protocol adherence.
Assists with data interpretation related to nutrition outcomes.
Collaborates with Research and Clinical Stakeholders: Participates in virtual study meetings, investigator consultations, and interdisciplinary reviews.
Communicates protocol requirements to interdisciplinary teams.
Provides subject-matter expertise in nutrition science.
Educates Participants and Research Staff: Delivers education and training through virtual platforms, webinars, and electronic materials.
Trains research staff on nutrition protocols and data collection.
Contributes to Research Dissemination and Quality Improvement: Assists with manuscript preparation and research presentations.
Supports grant writing and protocol development efforts.
Identifies opportunities to improve nutrition research processes.
Supports decentralized or virtual clinical trial models, including remote monitoring of nutrition interventions.
Participates in professional development, conferences, or continuing education.
Contributes to institutional research committees or workgroups.
Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.
Performs related duties as required.