Research Project Assistant

The Research Program Assistant will support the day-to-day conduct of the Fezolinetant: Vascular and Brain Function (FAVES-B) clinical trial at the Center for Women’s Biobehavioral Health Research (PI: Rebecca Thurston, PhD). FAVES-B examines the effects of a treatment for menopausal hot flashes on brain, cognitive, and vascular function in midlife women. The Research Program Assistant will work directly with research participants and independently perform protocol-defined research activities, while sharing responsibility for participant coordination, study visits, data collection, and other activities necessary for successful and protocol-adherent study implementation.

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

Share responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the FAVES-B clinical trial and completion of protocol-defined research activities.

Work directly with participants during research visits and provide clear, professional instructions regarding study procedures and expectations.

Administer standardized cognitive, behavioral, and other protocol-defined research assessments according to established procedures.

Assist with implementation of other FAVES-B study procedures, including ambulatory/wearable monitoring, electronic diaries, physical measurements, laboratory-related procedures, and coordination of assessments conducted by collaborating research teams.

Train participants in the appropriate use of study equipment, monitoring devices, and electronic diaries and assist with troubleshooting participant-level issues according to established study procedures.

Collect, enter, review, and maintain study data and research documentation with attention to accuracy, completeness, confidentiality, and protocol adherence.

Assist with preparation of study materials, equipment, participant packets, and other materials required for research visits.

Assist with participant payments and documentation as needed.

Communicate closely with the Research Operations Coordinator, investigators, and other research team members regarding participant scheduling, study activities, and operational needs.

Complete study-specific training and maintain proficiency and standardization in assigned research assessments and procedures.

Serve as a flexible member of the Center for Women’s Biobehavioral Health Research team and assist with other Center research activities as needed.

Bachelor's degree required, preferably in psychology, neuroscience, sociology or related research field.

Minimum of 2 years of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.

Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.

Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.

Prior supervisory and/or project management experience preferred.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

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UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran