Research Assistant, Fractional Time – Institute Brain Health

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant, Fractional Time – Institute for Brain Health at its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

The Research Assistant supports the Principal Investigator and Laboratory Manager in the coordination and implementation of the Brains, Experiences, and Mental Health (BEAM) study within the Ruvvy Resilience Lab. The position supports participant recruitment, screening, scheduling, consenting, study visits, data quality activities, and research procedures involving youth participants and their caregivers. The Research Assistant also leads Community Advisory Board activities, contributes to community engagement and public dissemination efforts, and supports the development of research products and independent research activities.

The position may provide similar research support for other laboratory studies as needed.

Conducts research visits with youth participants and their caregivers in accordance with approved study protocols. Administers interviews, questionnaires, and other research procedures; assists with brain imaging activities; monitors participant needs during study visits; and performs basic data review and quality assurance to support the accuracy and completeness of study data.

Contributes to the development of scientific research products, including peer-reviewed manuscripts, research posters, presentations, abstracts, and other materials used to communicate study findings to academic and professional audiences.

Participates in weekly laboratory meetings and regular meetings with the Principal Investigator and Laboratory Manager to discuss research activities, participant recruitment and enrollment, study progress, emerging issues, and assigned projects.

Coordinates and facilitates Community Advisory Board activities, including scheduling meetings, communicating with members, preparing for, and leading meetings, documenting discussions, and distributing meeting recaps and follow-up information.

Supports recruitment of potential study participants through telephone, email, flyers, social media, and other approved outreach methods. Conducts preliminary participant screening and communicates study information to prospective participants and their families in accordance with established research protocols.

Coordinates study visits with participants, families, research staff, and the Magnetic Resonance Research Facility (MRRF). Manages scheduling communications and assists with participant preparation and logistical coordination to support the timely completion of study activities.

Supports community engagement and public dissemination of research through local events, outreach activities, social media campaigns, video production and editing, content development, and other activities designed to communicate research findings and promote community awareness and participation.

Performs all other duties as assigned.