Research Associate I- NIH (Psychological Science

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I - NIH (Psychological Science)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate I in the Behavioral Health Lab under the primary supervision of Laura Seligman, Ph.D., ABPP and Joseph Hovey, Ph.D. in the UTRGV Department of Psychological Science. The research associate will be responsible for assisting the principal investigators and research team with an NIH funded clinical trial.

This study will compare the efficacy of two behavioral interventions for dental phobia in children. The study treatments are OSTD (One Session Treatment for Dental Phobia in Children) vs. RELAX (Psychoeducation and Progressive Muscle Relaxation Treatment for Dental Phobia). Participants in the study will be randomized to a single treatment arm (OSTD or RELAX). Participants are children and adolescents (ages 7-16) who meet criteria for a diagnosis of a specific phobia.

Applicants with availability for multiple years are strongly preferred. The assignment is estimated to begin Summer 2026 (pending budgetary approval) and will be continued annually based on funding availability.

• Recruiting and screening study participants
• Scheduling study visits
• Completing study assessments in compliance with study protocol
• Assisting study interventionists during treatment visits
• Collecting and monitoring data in research databases
• Disbursing and documenting subject payments
• Setting up and maintaining research equipment and supplies
• Maintaining inventory of research related material
• Preparing or assisting with preparation of reports of research findings
• Complying with all State and University policies
• Other duties may be assigned

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.

Master’s degree in Psychology or related field from an accredited university.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish
• Experience working on clinical trials or behavioral research with human subjects

None

Use of personal computer and proficiency in Microsoft Office software. Able to learn and use institutional software systems.

Office/research environment. Needs to be able to successfully perform all required duties. UTRGV is a distributed institution, which requires presence at multiple locations throughout the Rio Grande Valley. May work evenings and/or weekends depending on appointment schedule.

Position is grant funded. Minimum salary commensurate with experience. Employment is full‑time. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley provides a range of benefits consistent with institutional policy (health, dental, vision, retirement, etc.) and encourages equal opportunity.

It is the policy of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley to promote and ensure equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information or protected veteran status. In accordance with the requirements of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, our University is committed to comply with all government requirements and ensures non‑discrimination in its education programs and activities, including employment.

We encourage women, minorities and differently abled persons to apply for employment positions of interest.