Research Assistant

Position Summary

The College of Nursing at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated individual for a Research Assistant position to work as a member of the Food-Body-Mind Intervention.

This position manages all 16‑week (around Nov to Mar) intervention related activities for a large‑scale, federally funded research study. The Research Assistant will assist in hiring, training, and supervising intervention personnel; scheduling and planning intervention events and team meetings; and communicating effectively with all project staff and partners. The role works closely with the Principal Investigator, Project Manager, and other key collaborators to meet study objectives and abide by all applicable regulations.

They will also assist the Project Manager on research activities during the non‑intervention time.

This is an off‑dated position funded for one year from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

• Coordinate with intervention daycare teachers on implementing the child program at each daycare classroom. Provide training to daycare teachers on implementing the child program. Will also be responsible for intervention materials, including but not limited to inventory. Provide clarification and assist with problem solving as necessary.
• Monitor the study website to promote positive post(s) each week among intervention parents. Coordinate the hosting of virtual group parent meetings. Consistently keep project trackers updated with intervention participation information.
• Schedule and facilitate process evaluation meetings and evaluation interviews with participants.
• Inform the Project Manager and Principal Investigator of the day‑to‑day intervention activities, when any problems arise, and when clarification or deviations from protocol are needed.
• Account for and manages all intervention data according to the study’s Data Safety and Monitoring Plan. Assist key staff with preparation and analysis of all intervention data.
• Assist the Project Manager and Principal Investigator on various research activities during the non‑intervention time (April – Oct).
• Assist in preparing and editing reports, articles, and manuscripts for publication. Perform relevant literature reviews as necessary.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four‑year college degree program in research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research;

or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Outstanding judgment, initiative, and attention to detail; superior interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication skills; strong organization and problem‑solving skills.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.