Research Associate

Description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, seeks a highly motivated and experienced Research Associate to support and advance clinical and translational research programs in rheumatology. The Research Associate will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) and multidisciplinary research teams to design, conduct, analyze, and disseminate clinical research focused on rheumatologic diseases.

The position requires a strong background in rheumatology, clinical research methodology, and statistical analysis. The Research Associate will independently manage assigned research projects from study development through data analysis, abstract and manuscript preparation, presentation, and dissemination. The individual will use statistical methods and software, including IBM SPSS Statistics, to analyze clinical research data and generate publication-quality tables and figures.

Under the direction of the PI, the Research Associate will contribute to the development of new research questions, study designs, analytical strategies, and collaborative research initiatives. The Research Associate will communicate regularly with the PI and collaborating departments, provide recommendations regarding study design and analytical methodology, and ensure that research projects progress efficiently and are completed according to established timelines.

The Research Associate will also contribute to scientific presentations, peer-reviewed publications, and grant applications, including the development of preliminary data and research materials to support new funding opportunities. The position requires a high level of scientific integrity, attention to detail, independence, collaboration, and commitment to responsible conduct of research.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Plan, conduct, and interpret statistical analyses for clinical and translational research projects developed by the PI. Participate in the design and implementation of new studies and, when appropriate, independently develop research questions, experiments, and analytical approaches in collaboration with the PI. Manage assigned research projects from study initiation through data analysis and dissemination. Monitor project progress, identify potential challenges or barriers, and provide regular updates and recommendations to the PI. Collaborate with faculty, research staff, bioinformatics personnel, and other departments to facilitate study completion. Interpret research findings and provide scientifically sound recommendations regarding study design, statistical methodology, and analytical strategies. Ensure that research activities are conducted with scientific rigor, accuracy, and adherence to institutional policies and responsible conduct of research. (30%)

2. Assist the PI in developing novel areas of clinical and translational research within rheumatology. Independently identify opportunities for new research questions, hypotheses, and analytical approaches. Apply appropriate statistical methods to clinical research datasets using IBM SPSS Statistics and other analytical tools as needed. Collaborate with investigators and research teams to develop innovative approaches to clinical research. Contribute to database development, data management, quality control, and interpretation of complex clinical datasets. Evaluate and recommend appropriate analytical methodologies based on the research question, study design, and available data. (30%)

3. Prepare abstracts for submission to national and international rheumatology and scientific meetings. Present research findings at departmental research meetings, scientific conferences, seminars, and other academic forums. Prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals. Develop publication-quality tables, figures, and other research materials. Contribute to grant applications through development and analysis of preliminary data, research summaries, figures, and other supporting materials. Collaborate with the PI and other investigators in communicating research findings to scientific and clinical audiences. (20%)

4. Independently develop and execute research projects under the overall guidance of the PI. Assemble, clean, analyze, and interpret research data. Generate publication-quality figures, tables, and statistical outputs. Serve as first author or co-author on manuscripts resulting from research conducted within the research program. Contribute to study protocols, research reports, abstracts, manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals. Maintain the highest standards of scientific integrity, research ethics, data accuracy, confidentiality, and responsible conduct of research. Take ownership of assigned projects and ensure timely completion of research milestones and deliverables. (15%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Perform other research related duties and responsibilities as assigned by the PI or Department. (3%)

2. Participate in departmental and institutional research initiatives as appropriate. (2%)

CONTACTS

Department: Frequent interaction with the PI and rheumatology faculty. Regular collaboration with research coordinators, research staff, administrative personnel, and other members of the clinical research team. Collaboration with faculty investigators involved in multidisciplinary research projects.

University: Regular or occasional interaction with investigators and staff from other departments and academic units. Collaboration with the Bioinformatics and Biostatistics teams as appropriate. Communication with other University departments and research resources required for successful completion of research projects.

External: Supply vendors, other institutions, funding agencies, etc. as needed

Students: Undergraduate and graduate student employees working in the lab

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

No direct supervisory responsibilities. The Research Associate may provide scientific guidance, training, and project-level directions to research staff and trainees as appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: Medical degree (MD or DO) or PhD or master's in clinical research. Clinical research experience in rheumatology preferred. Demonstrated experience in clinical research design, data analysis, scientific writing, and research dissemination. Minimum 5 years of experience developing abstracts, manuscripts, scientific presentations, and/or grant materials strongly preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Statistical Analysis: Demonstrated proficiency in IBM SPSS Statistics and application of statistical methods to clinical research data.
2. Research Methodology: Strong understanding of clinical research methodology, study design, data interpretation, and analytical approaches.
3. Scientific Writing: Demonstrated ability to prepare scientific abstracts, manuscripts, research reports, and presentations.
4. Analytical Skills: Excellent ability to evaluate complex datasets, interpret findings, formulate conclusions, and provide scientifically appropriate recommendations.
5. Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with physicians, researchers, research staff, administrative personnel, and external collaborators.
6. Organization and Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records.
7. Attention to Detail: Demonstrated commitment to accuracy, quality control, reproducibility, and timely completion of research activities.
8. Leadership and Collaboration: Ability to lead research activities, work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, provide guidance to research staff, and foster productive working relationships.
9. Independence and Initiative: Ability to work independently, take ownership of assigned projects, identify problems, develop solutions, and function effectively with appropriate guidance from the PI.
10. Problem Solving and Innovation: Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to develop creative and scientifically rigorous approaches to research questions.
11. Data and Technology: Strong computer skills, including database management and the ability to learn and utilize new research and analytical software as needed.
12. Multilingual Skills: Ability to communicate in multiple languages is strongly preferred and may be beneficial in clinical research involving diverse patient populations.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The Research Associate will primarily work in an indoor office and research environment. The position may occasionally require accompanying the PI during clinical activities or participating in research-related activities involving patients.

The position will generally follow standard first-shift business hours, with occasional hybrid work arrangements and evening or weekend activities as required by research protocols, scientific meetings, project deadlines, or the discretion of the PI.

The position requires flexibility, responsiveness, and the ability to adapt to changing research priorities, project timelines, and departmental needs.

Case Western Reserve University is committed to providing a transparent estimate of the salary for this position at the time of its posting. The starting annual salary is $55,000-$70,000, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

Employees receive more than just a paycheck. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.