Sr Research Coordinator - Pets and Well Lab

Overview

The Pets and Well-being (PAW) Lab is seeking a part-time (17.5 hours per week) Research Coordinator for a limited-term position from January 2026 through December 2026. This position will support a project that involves developing practitioner-focused materials related to youth, pets, and mental health. The Research Coordinator will be responsible for conducting practitioner focus groups and interviews and developing and disseminating educational resources.

This position is remote with the potential for some in-person work (not required).

The PAW Lab is a research group run by Dr. Megan Mueller (PI) at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University within the Department of Comparative Pathobiology. The PAW Lab is dedicated to exploring the complex interactions between humans and animals, specializing in understanding human-animal interaction (HAI) in youth and families. We are committed to conducting and disseminating research that leads to practical applications that will improve the lives of diverse children, families, and animals.

The PAW Lab is located at the Center for Animals and Public Policy at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, which houses a robust group of interdisciplinary researchers and practitioners who work at the intersection of human and animal health. This position will be part of a dynamic and supportive team environment that places an emphasis on collaboration and conducting inclusive research.

Essential functions as a Research Coordinator will be:

Practitioner interviews/focus groups:

• Development of interview guides for practitioners
• Recruitment of practitioners for interviews/focus groups
• Implementation of efficient and effective processes for data collection and management
• Management of Institutional Review Board (IRB) documentation and compliance

Educational resource development:

• Development of content for educational resources
• Collaborate with design team on creation of resources
• Dissemination and evaluation of resources

• Communication with practitioners as the primary point of contact
• Scheduling of team meetings across collaborative team

Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Human/Child Development, Public Health, Social Work, Education, Neuroscience, Human-Animal Interaction, or related field.
• 1 year of relevant research experience.
• Proficient computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Strong attention to organizational detail.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, verbally and in writing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a desire to build rapport with practitioners.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Animals and Public Policy, Psychology, Human/Child Development, Public Health, Social Work, Education, Neuroscience, Human-Animal Interaction, or related field.
• Experience with science communication

Minimum $24.70, Midpoint $29.50, Maximum $34.20

Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.