Psychophysiology Research Assistant, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

This position is funded by a grant (R01HL169990-01) through the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The goal of the study is to better understand the behavioral and biological risk factors for heart disease, with a particular focus on how stress and resiliency can influence brain and heart health. Responsibilities will involve recruiting participants, screening participants for eligibility, scheduling participants, collecting physiological and brain imaging data (MRI), entering data, and assisting study investigators and staff with administrative tasks. The position would require some work-schedule flexibility to accommodate working adults who participate in the research study (e.g., occasional evening and weekend availability may be necessary).

The Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences is committed to building a culturally diverse staff. Excellent attention to detail, organizational and time management skills, interpersonal and relationship-building skills, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and the constituencies in support of a diverse community are all required for this position.

Preferred candidates will have a BS with 1-2 years of experience.

Conducts research assessments and procedures independently. Oversees operations when leadership is unavailable. Recruits and screens participants, reviews records and surveys, and maintains databases. Performs routine data analysis and prepares reports, data visualizations, and models.

This position will require the employee to:
- Interact professionally and with ease with adults from very diverse backgrounds and life circumstances from the Pittsburgh area.
- Quickly learn and conduct accurate MRI brain imaging, psychophysiological, and other data collection procedures using sophisticated laboratory equipment and software programs in accordance with a strict research protocol.
- Accurately utilize highly specialized scientific software programs to collect and analyze research data.
- Remain sensitive to the participants’ level of comfort with performing mildly stressful research procedures during these assessments, and take appropriate action when needed.
- Accurately enter and update subject data into databases as needed.
- Assist the Lab Manager and PhD level Research Associates in scheduling study visits, ensuring adherence to strict study timelines.
- Complete IRB training in human subjects research and other relevant trainings or certifications prior to performing research related activities.
- Maintain a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends to accommodate the schedules of research participants and meet the needs of study protocol.
- Attention to detail is imperative for all job duties, especially for processing and entering a variety of data.

The position is primarily sedentary, although walking to lab spaces in other buildings in Oakland will be required for conducting assessments with participants.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.