Research Associate, Research Assistant​/Associate, Research Scientist

General Notes

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Dell Medical School is seeking a Research Associate I. This is a grant funded position with an end date of 8/31/2027, renewable based upon availability of funding, work performance, and progress toward research goals.

This position will provide research assistance/support for research projects in the Department of Psychiatry at UT Austin working as part of a team of faculty, staff, graduate students, and undergraduate assistants.

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

Participant Assessments

• Reviews medical records.

• Conducts screenings for study recruitment.

• Executes data collection procedure and assessment.

• Assists with subject recruitment.

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 and presentations.

• Assist with manuscripts and publications by drafting sections, reviewing content, and ensuring adherence to publication guidelines.

Study Management

• Helps with subject management, including phone calls and general coordination to schedule patients for study visits and follow-ups, and reimbursement.

• Work closely with Principal Investigators (PIs), clinicians, and other research staff to facilitate study operations.

• Work both independently and as part of a team to achieve project goals. Perform administrative and coordinating tasks pertaining to study management.

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 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:

Training and Mentorship

• Provide training and guidance to new research staff and interns.

• Assist in the onboarding process for new team members.

Grant Writing Support

• Assist in the preparation of grant proposals and funding applications.

• Provide data and information to support grant submissions.

• Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.

• Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Interpreting experimental results, identifying trends in data, troubleshooting experimental issues.

• Meticulous in maintaining accurate records and ensuring the precision of experiments.

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

• Proficient in using laboratory equipment and scientific software.

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

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering or technical field. Basic engineering and/or scientific equipment ordinarily used in college laboratory work.

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

According to Executive Order No. GA-48 of the State of Texas: for all positions that research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), Business and Commerce Code, it is required that both candidates for employment and employees have the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure.

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