Research Specialist

UPMC • Pittsburgh, PA

9d • Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a Research Specialist to work in two research projects supported by the National Institute of Mental Health. The first project, The Longitudinal Study of Late-Life Suicide, seeks to understand the dynamic interplay of biological and psychological factors of aging that either protect against or exacerbates the risk of suicide in late-life. This longitudinal study assesses suicidal ideation trajectories, changes in cognitive performance, and ecological momentary assessments (EMA) to understand how cognitive abilities, decision making, emotional changes, and circadian rhythm contribute to suicide risk. It utilizes neurocognitive assessments, decision process measures, actigraphy, and EMA. The second project, the Rhythms after loss for Improving Suicidal Risk in Elders (RISE) Study, examines the risk for and resilience to late-life suicide during the early spousal bereavement period. It investigates whether a digital health intervention targeting the timing and regularity of social activities, sleep (circadian rhythm), and meals, along with weekly health coaching sessions, can help reduce suicide risk amongst older adults. This study uses motivational interviewing techniques (health coaching), mood, behavior, psychosocial, neurocognitive assessments, and rest-activity rhythm measures. Our lab offers a collaborative environment that fosters academic growth and mentorship, encouraging staff to engage in independent research projects that may lead to poster presentations and scientific publications. This position is suitable for those interested in pursuing academic and/or clinical advancement. Applicants with a Bachelor's or Master's degree are encouraged to apply, and this is an excellent opportunity for those looking to pursue doctoral programs in Psychology, Neuroscience, or medical studies. The ideal candidate has experience with older adult populations, diagnostic interviews, and neuropsychological assessments, along with strong communication skills, some psychology/research experience, and an interest in suicide research. Experience with data management is also beneficial, with opportunities to learn advanced data management and clinical processes. This position is grant-funded.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or higher), in psychology, neuroscience, sociology or related research field is required.
• 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 34

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of research methodology is strongly preferred.
• Minimum commitment of 2-3 years preferred.
• Experience working or volunteering with older populations or individuals experiencing mental health problems preferred.
• Experience with REDcap or other data management systems preferred.
• Experience with diagnostic interviews and neuropsychological assessments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute job functions for research protocol(s) including recruitment, scheduling appointments, obtaining written consent forms, collecting data by conducting phone, virtual and face to face visits for research project(s), attend the inpatient psychiatric unit (WPIC) and/or the sleep and behavioral neuroscience center to administer assessments, and provide administrative support when needed.
• Under direction of PI-s, conduct structured diagnostic interviews, mood, behavioral, psychosocial and neuropsychological assessments with reliable administration and data entry/documentation.
• Under direction of PI-s, conduct health coaching sessions as part of the intervention.
• Participate and attend weekly project specific and lab enrichment meetings that focus on current relevant topics in each project and the research field.
• Collaborate with senior research personnel regarding recruitment, data collection, outcomes of interviews, reports according to the needs of the study.

What This Job Offers

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