Position Summary

The successful candidate will be highly motivated and passionate about pediatric psychology or medicine. The primary tasks are to assist Dr. Natoshia Cunningham (PI) with a project that aims to develop and test a program to train school professionals such as nurses and mental health specialists in cognitive and behavioral strategies that address common issues impacting youth (e.g., physical pain, mental health, and substance misuse) in school settings.  The impact of the program on youth outcomes will also be evaluated.  Additional research opportunities related to other ongoing projects in the lab may be available (e.g., related to projects developing and testing cognitive behavioral approaches to care for youth with chronic painful conditions).

The primary role of the research assistant (RA) is to assist with study coordination activities (e.g., scheduling), development of the training program and online support tools, data management, and regulatory documentation. The RA will also assist with preparing scholarly outputs, including data cleaning and analysis.  The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with exquisite attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and comfort working with multidisciplinary providers/teams who serve youth. They will have prior research experience, and a passion for pediatric/child clinical psychology, medicine, or a related discipline. We strongly encourage applications from candidates from under-represented groups.  The position will begin as early as December 2024 and will include a competitive salary and benefits.

Occasional travel throughout the state of Michigan for training activities as needed. This position is located in Grand Rapids allowing flexibility for some remote.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of 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. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Excellent interpersonal and management skills; strong computer skills, writing and proofreading skills; organizational skills (including the ability to multi-task); strong attention to detail and problem solving, oral and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and interdependently. Familiarity with the Internet, email, and word processing software; strong writing and proofreading skills.  Experience with SPSS and RedCap strongly preferred, experience with R also desirable. Experience with pediatric populations strongly preferred; track record of successful project management; interests in interacting with large and varied multidisciplinary groups.  We do not expect candidates to have all these qualifications and thus encourage persons who are interested in the position in general to apply.

A valid Vehicle Operators License is required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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.

Required Application Materials

CV, cover letter and three professional letters of reference and their contact information.

Special Instructions

Position is for 1 year, with another year of renewed funding contingent on performance/funding options.  A candidate willing to commi