Research Associate

Research Associate For The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study

The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study is the largest long-term study of brain development and child health in the United States. The Pittsburgh ABCD study is one of 21 research sites across the country funded by the NIH to study biological and behavioral development through adolescence into young adulthood.

As part of our collaborative research team the Research Associate will perform study data collection including interviews, behavioral tasks and assist with fMRI scans. The ideal candidate is highly organized; detail-oriented; and possesses strong interpersonal skills including the ability to easily establish rapport with the research subjects.

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct research assessments with adolescents and parents including web-based structured interviews, questionnaires, neuropsychological testing, Fitbit activity and mobile app under the supervision of senior staff.
• Escort participants to the Magnetic Resonance Research Center and provide instructions and oversight while participants undergo MRI evaluation.
• Collect bio specimens from adolescents and ensure proper storage and shipping.
• Explain research protocol and obtain informed consent.
• Assist in arranging transportation and confirming subject appointments for follow-up participation in the research study; actively participate in the retention of subjects by mailings, email and subject searches.
• Maintain and update Access and Redcap databases; perform data entry and verification as needed.
• Summarize data collection progress using the metric dashboard to provide status reports as needed.
• Process participant payments via the Vincent system.
• Able to maintain a flexible schedule including some evening and weekend hours.
• Attend monthly meetings to update PI on study progress.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Counseling, Sociology or related research field or current enrollment in a related Bachelor's Degree program with direct experience in a research environment required.
• Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
• Prior related work experience in a research setting preferred.
• Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
• Act 33 with renewal
• Act 34 with renewal
• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran