Research Associate I

Research Associate I

Dell Medical School is seeking a Research Associate I. This position is temporary with an end date of June 1st, 2027, renewable based upon availability of funding, work performance, and progress toward goals.

Purpose: The Research Associate I supports scientific research by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This role typically reports to a Principal Investigator or Senior Research Scientist and works closely with other research staff, including Research Technicians and Laboratory Assistants. The Research Associate I is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of experimental results, contributing to research publications, and assisting in the development of new research protocols.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Research Experiments
• Perform laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior researchers.
• Recruit, pre-screen, and screen potential participants utilizing approved methods and appropriate eligibility criteria. Obtain informed consent of participants following GCP guidelines.
• Collect and analyze data using various scientific techniques, including but not limited to, psychological measures, neuroimaging measures, biospecimens (blood, urine, saliva, etc.), and neurocognitive measures.
• Data entry and maintenance of accurate records of experimental procedures and results.
• Data Analysis
• Analyze research data using statistical software and tools.
• Interpret results and prepare reports for review by senior researchers.
• Assist in the preparation of research publications, presentations, and manuscripts (authorship will depend on candidate's initiative and relevant contribution to work).
• Laboratory Maintenance
• Ensure the laboratory is clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies.
• Follow safety protocols and procedures.
• Collaboration and Communication
• Work closely with other research staff to coordinate experiments and share findings.
• Participate in team meetings and provide updates on research progress.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with external collaborators and stakeholders.
• Protocol Development
• Assist in the development and optimization of research protocols.
• Review and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) as needed.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical guidelines.
• Assist with IRB submission and management by preparing necessary documentation, coordinating with IRB representatives, and ensuring timely submission and approval.
• Marginal or Periodic Functions:
• Literature Review
• Conduct literature reviews to support ongoing research projects.
• Summarize findings and present them to the research team.
• Training and Mentorship
• Provide training and guidance to new research staff and interns.
• Assist in the onboarding process for new team members.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Meticulous in maintaining accurate records and ensuring the precision of experiments, excellent attention to detail

• Effective in conveying research findings and collaborating with team members.

• Proficient in using laboratory equipment and scientific software (i.e. Excel, RedCap, R, PsychoPy, etc.), troubleshooting experimental issues.

• Coordinating experiments with a diverse team of colleagues, participating in team discussions, supporting team goals.

• Comfortable interacting with people living with serious mental illness

• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.

Required Qualifications

Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience, Public Health, or other related discipline with at least 1 year of research experience. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's Degree and/or Bachelor's Degree with 2 years of relevant laboratory experience, including experience with specific techniques used in the research area.

• Certification as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or similar certification.
• Human Subjects Research and/or Good Clinical Practice certified
• Phlebotomy licensure/certification
• Level 1 or Level 2 MRI-certified

Salary Range: $40,000 + depending on qualifications Working Conditions

• Standard office equipment

• Repetitive use of a keyboard

• Occasional weekend and evening work

• May work around biohazards