Research Project Assistant

The Research Program Assistant will support the day-to-day conduct of the Fezolinetant: Vascular and Brain Function (FAVES-B) clinical trial at the Center for Women’s Biobehavioral Health Research (PI: Rebecca Thurston, PhD). FAVES-B examines the effects of a treatment for menopausal hot flashes on brain, cognitive, and vascular function in midlife women. The Research Program Assistant will work directly with research participants and independently perform protocol-defined research activities, while sharing responsibility for participant coordination, study visits, data collection, and other activities necessary for successful and protocol-adherent study implementation.

This position is grant funded.Responsibilities:

• Share responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the FAVES-B clinical trial and completion of protocol-defined research activities.

• Work directly with participants during research visits and provide clear, professional instructions regarding study procedures and expectations.

• Administer standardized cognitive, behavioral, and other protocol-defined research assessments according to established procedures.

• Assist with implementation of other FAVES-B study procedures, including ambulatory/wearable monitoring, electronic diaries, physical measurements, laboratory-related procedures, and coordination of assessments conducted by collaborating research teams.

• Train participants in the appropriate use of study equipment, monitoring devices, and electronic diaries and assist with troubleshooting participant-level issues according to established study procedures.

• Collect, enter, review, and maintain study data and research documentation with attention to accuracy, completeness, confidentiality, and protocol adherence.

• Assist with preparation of study materials, equipment, participant packets, and other materials required for research visits.

• Assist with participant payments and documentation as needed.

• Communicate closely with the Research Operations Coordinator, investigators, and other research team members regarding participant scheduling, study activities, and operational needs.

• Complete study-specific training and maintain proficiency and standardization in assigned research assessments and procedures.

• Serve as a flexible member of the Center for Women’s Biobehavioral Health Research team and assist with other Center research activities as needed.

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in psychology, neuroscience, sociology or related research field.

• Minimum of 2 years of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.

• Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.

• Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.

• Prior supervisory and/or project management experience preferred.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran