Human Subject Research Specialist I
University of Rochester · Rochester, New York Metropolitan Area
- On site
- Full-time
- $59,000 / year
- Rochester, New York Metropolitan Area
Job highlights
- Support research on suicide risk in Hispanic/Latino adults.
- Recruit, screen, and consent participants.
- Administer assessments in English and Spanish.
- Manage study data using REDCap platform.
- Assist with IRB submissions and manuscript preparation.
About the role
Job Summary
The Human Subject Research Specialist I is a key member of a federally funded research program focused on cultural-social factors in suicide risk and prevention among Hispanic/Latino adults. This role supports a study examining social connection and well-being using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and involves participant recruitment, conducting assessments in English and Spanish, data management, and assisting with manuscript and grant preparation. The position also includes training junior research assistants and participating in lab meetings.Responsibilities
- Assist with the development and implementation of recruitment strategies in clinical and community settings.
- Screen potential participants for eligibility using structured protocols.
- Coordinate with outpatient clinics and community partners for recruitment.
- Conduct informed consent procedures in English and Spanish.
- Administer baseline and follow-up assessments, including structured interviews and self-report measures.
- Support participant onboarding for ecological momentary assessment (EMA), including smartphone-based survey setup and troubleshooting.
- Monitor participant safety, conduct suicide risk assessments, and follow study protocols for documentation and escalation.
- Maintain regular contact with participants to support retention.
- Enter, clean, and manage study data using REDCap and related platforms.
- Monitor data quality and completeness, including EMA compliance and missing data.
- Maintain accurate study records and ensure data security.
- Assist with the preparation and submission of IRB protocols, amendments, and continuing reviews.
- Maintain regulatory documentation and study materials.
- Track study progress, including enrollment and data collection milestones.
- Conduct literature reviews and assist with the preparation of manuscripts, abstracts, and grant materials.
- Support formatting of tables, figures, and references.
- Assist with organizing project materials and documentation for dissemination.
- Assist in training and supervising undergraduate and graduate research assistants on study procedures.
- Participate in weekly lab meetings and team coordination activities.
Minimum Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required, OR Associate's degree and completion of 6 months in the Human Subject Research Coordinator Trainee program required.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.
- 1 year or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Familiarity with word processing and data analysis software preferred.
- Familiarity with REDcap preferred.
Licenses and Certifications
- Professional Research Coordinator Certification (SoCRA or ACRP) preferred.
Key skills/competency
Human Subject Research, Research Specialist, Suicide Risk Prevention, Hispanic/Latino Adults, Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA), IRB Protocols, Participant Recruitment, Data Management, REDCap, Bilingual (English/Spanish)Skills & topics
- Human Subject Research
- Research Specialist
- Suicide Prevention
- Hispanic/Latino Health
- Ecological Momentary Assessment
- IRB
- Participant Recruitment
- Data Management
- REDCap
- Bilingual
- Research Assistant
- Psychiatry Research
- University of Rochester
- Academic Research
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight experience with human subject research, bilingualism (English/Spanish), and familiarity with REDCap.
- Craft a compelling cover letter: Express your passion for the lab's mission and specific research areas.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your experience with participant recruitment, consent, and data management.
- Showcase your skills: Demonstrate proficiency in psychological assessments and understanding of IRB protocols.
- Highlight relevant certifications: Mention any preferred certifications like SoCRA or ACRP.
Technical preparation
Familiarize yourself with REDCap database software.,Practice administering structured interviews.,Review methodologies for suicide risk assessment.,Understand protocols for participant safety.
Behavioral questions
Describe a time you handled sensitive participant information.,How do you ensure participant retention in studies?,Explain your experience working with diverse populations.,How do you manage multiple research tasks efficiently?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the key responsibilities of a Human Subject Research Specialist I at the University of Rochester?
- The Human Subject Research Specialist I will primarily support a federally funded research program focused on suicide risk and prevention among Hispanic/Latino adults. Key responsibilities include participant recruitment, administering psychological assessments in English and Spanish, managing study data using REDCap, assisting with IRB submissions, and contributing to manuscript preparation. You will also help train junior research assistants and participate in lab meetings.
- What qualifications are preferred for the Human Subject Research Specialist I position at the University of Rochester?
- A Bachelor's degree is required. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is strongly preferred, as is one year of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Familiarity with REDCap and word processing/data analysis software is also preferred. Preferred certifications include Professional Research Coordinator Certification (SoCRA or ACRP).
- What is the compensation for the Human Subject Research Specialist I role at the University of Rochester?
- The compensation range for this full-time position is $21.36 - $29.90 per hour. The final salary will be determined based on factors such as market data, education, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.
- What is the work environment like for the Human Subject Research Specialist I at the University of Rochester?
- This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week on a day shift. The role is part of a research program within the Psychiatry Department at the University of Rochester Medical Center, specifically in Dr. Caroline Silva’s lab. The work involves direct interaction with participants and collaboration with a research team.
- How does the University of Rochester foster an inclusive culture relevant to this Human Subject Research Specialist I role?
- The University of Rochester is deeply committed to 'Meliora - Ever Better,' which includes values like equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. They strive to create a welcoming community where all can thrive, extending this commitment to non-discrimination in all policies and practices, including employment and recruitment.