IRB Outreach Specialist

Human Protections Specialist

The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center Human Research Protections Office (HRPO) is seeking a highly motivated, knowledgeable, goal‑driven professional with outstanding communication skills to join our team as the IRB Outreach Specialist. The selected candidate will provide in‑person support to the research community, HRPO staff, and committee members based on knowledge of ethical principles, federal regulations, and state and local regulations/guidelines that govern human subjects research.

The institution’s Human Research Protections Program (HRPP) is a comprehensive AAHRPP‑accredited program that protects the rights and welfare of human research participants. The Human Research Protections Office supports three Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) and promotes ethical and scientifically sound research through guidance, education, and oversight.

• Provide in‑person support to assist researchers and staff in developing review‑ready applications and follow‑on submissions and in understanding and complying with regulations and policy.
• Respond to phone calls and provide guidance to investigators and research staff.
• Coordinate with senior staff to identify opportunities for staff, investigator, and committee training.
• Develop processes ensuring new investigators and those without professional research support have access to knowledgeable guidance.
• Train and support development of staff, HRRC members, and the research community.
• On‑board new HRRC members.
• Plan and lead the annual educational event Research University.

See the Position Description for additional information.

• For HSC positions:
  Certification as Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC), Clinical Research Associate (CRA), or Certified IRB Professional (CIP) must be obtained within one year of date of hire.

Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Biomedical Science, or a closely related field; at least three years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

• Direct experience in IRB Administration, regulatory compliance, or teaching.
• Expertise in Federal, State, and local regulations and guidelines for human subjects research.
• Experience preparing applications and other documents for submission to an IRB.
• Experience developing and delivering comprehensive training programs.
• Experience providing consultative support and guidance regarding regulatory concepts.
• Experience developing policies and procedures.
• Experience using an electronic IRB submission program;
  Click IRB preferred.
• Working knowledge of scientific and medical concepts, terminology, and clinical care procedures.
• Computer proficiency including MS Office Suite and database programs.

This is a benefits‑eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs.

Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions to successfully pass a pre‑employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Refer to  for a definition of Regular Staff.

As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.

Background check required:
Yes