Research Assistant

About the Job

Position Overview

The MN Longitudinal Study of Risk and Adaptation (MLSRA), at the Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota is hiring a research assistant for a collaborative NIH-funded research project. The candidate will work under the supervision of the project principal investigators (Elizabeth Carlson and Kathleen Thomas) and in coordination with other project team members to conduct research assessments, code assessment data, and collaborate with the study team. We are seeking someone with knowledge of research assessment and data processing protocols and strong organizational skills.

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures.

Job Responsibilities

Survey Recruitment Coordination (25%)

• Complete CITI Human Subjects training.

• Collaborate with MLRSA staff to develop survey recruitment strategies.

• Draft correspondence and send participant emails and/or mailing packets.

• Coordinate recruitment of longitudinal study participants to complete an online survey.

• Organize and maintain records of participant response to recruitment efforts.

• Communicate effectively with the Principal Investigators on a regular basis regarding recruitment progress and challenges.

Survey Data Collection Coordination (25%)

• Participate in the development of an online survey of adult daily activities.

• Develop and implement an online survey data collection plan.

• Obtain informed consent and assent from survey participants.

• Assist participants in completing computerized questionnaires using REDCap software.

• Organize and maintain records of survey completion.

• Collaborate in person and virtually with MLSRA research team to coordinate survey data entry and coding.

• Communicate effectively with the Principal Investigators on a regular basis regarding data collection progress.

Behavioral Research Activities (50%)

• Complete training to competency in adult behavioral research assessments (e.g., computer tasks, survey, questionnaire, and interview administration)

• Complete training (to competency) in the role of MRI assessment assistant.

• Obtain informed consent and assent from adult participants.

• Conduct in-person adult behavioral research assessments (e.g., assist with MRI assessments, independently conduct cognitive and behavioral assessments, including computer tasks, questionnaires, and surveys).

• Code behavioral assessments and assist with data entry and management.

• Under supervision of the lab manager, meet with graduate research assistants to review and reconcileassessment data.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS with at least 2 years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal 6 years.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities.

• Experience with human subjects research.

• Facility with basic computer and statistical software (i.e. Microsoft Office, web browsers).

• Demonstrable organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Flexible schedule (availability for evening and weekend assessments).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with longitudinal research.

• Prior experience with large datasets.

• Experience administering cognitive and behavioral assessments.

• Ability to balance independent activities and collaborative efforts.

• Skills in data coding and management.

• Knowledge of best practices in human subject protection.

About the Department

Department Overview

The Institute of Child Development (ICD) at the University of Minnesota has long been a premier center for scholarship, teaching, and outreach devoted to the understanding and fostering of child development. Founded in 1925, the Institute is one of the oldest departments studying children's development in the United States. From its inception, a key tenet of the department has been to "give away" child psychology. This philosophy has created an environment rich with collaborations, new ideas, and exciting interdisciplinary work. The ICD is housed within the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) and has an undergraduate program within the College of Liberal Arts (CLA).

College Overview

The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college and the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice.

Benefits

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off

• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program

• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans

• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts

• University HSA contributions

• Disability and employer-paid life insurance

• Employee wellbeing program

• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity

• Financial counseling services

• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About the U of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).