Research Specialist

UPMC • Pittsburgh, PA

7d

About The Position

UPMC is hiring a grant-funded Research Specialist – Health Coach for the National Institute of Mental Health-funded Rhythms after loss for Improving Suicidal Risk in Elders (RISE) Study. The study examines suicide risk and resilience during early spousal bereavement in later life and evaluates whether a digital health intervention focused on regular sleep, meals, and physical and social activity can help reduce suicide risk.

Under the direction of the principal investigators, the Research Specialist will use motivational interviewing techniques in weekly health coaching sessions for 12 weeks to help participants pursue health goals and establish stable sleep and activity rhythms. The role also involves coordinating and carrying out research protocol activities, documenting visits, and collaborating with senior research personnel on training and session fidelity.

The lab offers a collaborative environment with academic growth and mentorship. Staff are encouraged to pursue independent research projects, which may lead to conference poster presentations and contributions to scientific publications. The position may suit someone interested in academic or clinical advancement, including further graduate study. A bachelor’s or master’s degree is encouraged; a bachelor’s degree or higher in psychology, neuroscience, sociology, or a related research field is required. The position is grant funded.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in psychology, neuroscience, sociology, or a related research field.
• At least one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting.
• Familiarity with computers and common software packages.
• Strong verbal, communication, and writing skills.
• Act 34 clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of research methodology.
• A minimum commitment of 2–3 years.
• Experience working or volunteering with older populations or individuals experiencing mental health problems.
• Experience with health coaching, motivational interviewing, and/or clinical assessments.
• Experience with REDCap or other data management systems.
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree; applicants interested in further graduate study are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Obtain certification in motivational interviewing for behavior change.
• Under the direction of the principal investigators, conduct health coaching sessions as part of the intervention.
• Conduct weekly virtual health coaching calls with participants for 12 weeks per case to encourage health behavior goals through the Healthy Rhythms Program.
• Compile resources relevant to participants’ goals and interests.
• Carry out research protocol functions independently, including scheduling appointments, conducting phone, virtual, and face-to-face visits, and documenting visits.
• Attend weekly project-specific meetings to review cases.
• Collaborate with senior research personnel on training and session fidelity according to study needs.

Benefits

• Collaborative environment that fosters academic growth and mentorship.
• Encouragement to engage in independent research projects, potentially leading to conference poster presentations and contributions to scientific publications.

What This Job Offers

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