Research Specialist

UPMC • Pittsburgh, PA

17h

About The Position

Join the Youth and Family Research Program (YFRP) within the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, a research team dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, and related behavioral health challenges across the lifespan. YFRP is committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment for both staff and research participants. We value diverse perspectives and strive to promote equity and inclusion in research and academic settings. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research that aims to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by behavioral health conditions. This position is grant funded.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Psychology, Neuroscience, Sociology or related research field.
• Minimum of one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.
• Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
• Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
• Act 33 with renewal
• Act 34
• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Independently support and execute research protocols through participant recruitment, scheduling, informed consent procedures, and data collection using REDCap and HIPAA-compliant virtual platforms.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with study participants, serving as a primary point of contact throughout their research experience.
• Collaborate closely with investigators and senior research staff to support recruitment efforts, data collection activities, participant interviews, and study-related reporting.
• Ensure research activities are conducted in accordance with established protocols, regulatory requirements, and the standards of the Youth and Family Research Program (YFRP), the Department of Psychiatry, and the University of Pittsburgh.
• Contribute to innovative behavioral health research focused on improving the understanding, identification, prevention, and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders.
• Promote a culture of professionalism, equity, inclusion, and respect while working with diverse populations of research participants and team members.
• Participate in ongoing research activities, team meetings, and initiatives that support high-quality scientific outcomes and participant engagement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level