Research Assistant – Hispanic LGB Youth & Families

Research Assistant

The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies is seeking a motivated and culturally competent Research Assistant to support an NIH-funded study focused on preventing drug use and promoting mental health among Hispanic lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth and their families. This project tests a parenting program designed to strengthen family functioning, reduce risk behaviors, and enhance protective factors in Hispanic families in Miami-Dade County.

The Research Assistant will play a key role in participant recruitment and engagement, working directly with families and community partners to ensure successful study implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruitment & Outreach:
  Lead recruitment efforts by engaging Hispanic LGB youth and their families in Miami-Dade through community organizations, clinics, schools, and social networks.
• Screening & Enrollment:
  Conduct eligibility screenings, obtain informed consent, and enroll participants in the study.
• Participant Support:
  Maintain regular communication with families, provide reminders about study sessions, and support retention throughout the program.
• Research
  
  Activities:
  
  Assist with data collection (surveys, interviews, focus groups), ensure accuracy and confidentiality, and maintain detailed records. Conduct fidelity assessments.
• Community Engagement:
  Build and sustain partnerships with local organizations and community stakeholders to enhance outreach and participant trust.
• Team
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with the Principal Investigator, Project Director, and research staff; attend team meetings and contribute to reports.

Qualifications

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree in public health, psychology, social work, nursing, or related field preferred; associate's degree or relevant experience considered.
• Experience:
  
  Experience working with Hispanic LGB youth and families in Miami-Dade strongly preferred. Prior involvement in community-based programs, outreach, or research a plus.
• Skills:
  
  Bilingual (English/Spanish) required. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to build rapport and trust with diverse families and communities. Organizational skills for recruitment tracking and data documentation.
• Personal Qualities:
  Commitment to health equity, cultural humility, and community engagement.

Position Details

• Location:
  
  Miami-Dade County (community-based with some on-campus responsibilities).
• Employment Type:
  
  Full-time; grant-funded position.
• Schedule:
  
  Evening and weekend availability required to meet family schedules.
• Compensation:
  Commensurate with experience; includes benefits.
• Must be willing to use transportation to visit community sites.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law.