Research Project Assistant

Research Project Assistant

The Center for Women's Biobehavioral Health Research (PI: Rebecca Thurston) is devoted to understanding and enhancing women's health at midlife and beyond. The Center, located in Sterling Plaza, is within the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh. The Research Project Assistant plays a key role in the execution and coordination of studies at the Center including the Study of Women Across the Nation and an industry sponsored menopause study. The trial examines the effects of a prescription treatment for menopausal hot flashes on brain, cognitive, and vascular function in midlife women. This position requires prior experience supporting clinical trials or clinical research studies, and demonstrated proficiency in protocol-driven study operations, participant safety procedures, and regulatory documentation. The Research Project Assistant will work closely with the Study Coordinator, and investigative team to ensure accurate and compliant study conduct. Experience with regulatory documentation, phlebotomy, cognitive testing, wearable devices, and/or clinical research involving women's health and/or menopause is highly preferred. This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

1. Recruit, screen, and enroll study participants, including explaining the research protocol and obtaining informed consent for study screening activities in accordance with IRB-approved procedures.
2. Assist with all aspects of the FAVES-B study protocol, serving as a point of contact for study participants.
3. Administer structured interviews and cognitive assessment batteries, obtain physical measures, train participants on wearable devices, and escort participants to assessments conducted at other laboratories on campus.
4. Process blood and related biological samples, including venipuncture and blood collection from participants, preparation of study equipment and phlebotomy tubes, sample labeling, handling, storage, and transport to designated laboratories in compliance with protocol and safety requirements.
5. Enter data in study databases.
6. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the research program and study objectives.

Education and Experience:

• 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:

• Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran