Research Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Research & Evaluation Group

ROLE TYPE: Full-Time

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to apply. The required cover letter is not just a formality; it is an opportunity to both demonstrate strong writing and explain how your skills and experiences translate to the work of R&E Group and make you a good fit for this position. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Research and Evaluation Group at Public Health Management Corporation (R&E Group) is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to join its team. R&E Group conducts applied research and evaluation, including work on program efficacy, intervention effectiveness, and needs assessments. The right candidate will enjoy a fast-paced, collaborative, and dynamic work environment where there is an opportunity to contribute to multiple projects focused on public health, substance use and addictions, family strengthening and child wellbeing, and teaching/learning.

The Research Assistant will report to a Senior Project Director and should be prepared to work on multiple evaluation and research projects, supporting data collection, analysis, and dissemination. We are currently hiring for projects focused on substance use treatment and tobacco cessation. Because our project mix is constantly in flux, there will be opportunities to work in numerous topic areas over time. Specific duties may include data cleaning and coding; data analysis; transcription of focus groups and interviews; infographic design; interviewing/data collection (if the primary collector is unavailable); literature reviews; and report writing.

R&E Group is committed to creating a pathway for employees to further their careers and encouraging growth within the department and beyond. Professional development opportunities are available for all R&E Group employees. These may include but are not limited to: presentations at national and local conferences; participation in work-related seminars; and contributions to scholarly manuscripts for publication. We are an equal opportunity employer that holds diversity and inclusion as values central to our mission and essential for our success. For us, this means promoting diversity of thought, experience, and culture, and creating an environment where all are respected, empowered, and safe to express their unique perspectives. We are committed to fostering and embracing our multilayered diversity; we strive to ensure that all R&E Group staff members are equally valued for their contributions to our team.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct routine data quality assurance activities and data cleaning using SPSS or R software.
• Conduct data analysis as needed using SPSS and/or R software.
• Document participant service engagement using PHMC's proprietary service registry and maintain service tracking records.
• Manage and prepare data from REDCap, PHMCs proprietary service registry, and other research data sources.
• Assist with the preparation of progress reports, data requests, presentations, and manuscripts for publication.
• Support grant and proposal development activities by assisting other team members with the submission of a minimum of four proposals per year. Proposal tasks may include but are not limited to: proposal task management; form completion; literature reviews; managing references and citations; drafting sections of proposal content; developing graphics and charts; and obtaining letters of support.
• Engage with study participants, community members, and clients in a way that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and respectful of cultural differences.
• Conduct internet research and literature reviews.
• Conduct interviews and assist with focus group planning, facilitation, and transcription of qualitative interviews and focus groups.
• Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

SKILLS:

Required

• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, recordkeeping, organizational, and time management skills
• Knowledge of primary and secondary data collection techniques
• Proficiency with data analysis and graphics programs, including Excel and PowerPoint; experience with SPSS or R is required
• Knowledge of basic descriptive and inferential statistics
• Demonstrated initiative, including the ability to solve problems, learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, and proactively seek assistance when needed
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative work environment

Preferred

• ArcGIS experience
• Advanced data visualization skills are not required but are a plus. Advanced skills might include technical proficiency in developing high-quality charts and the ability to select data visualization techniques appropriate for the data and audience.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in social sciences, public health, education, or a related field required

EXPERIENCE:

Required

• 1+ years of experience with research data management systems (e.g., REDCap)
• Experience in collecting, managing, and analyzing research data

Preferred

• Experience conducting data quality assurance and data cleaning
• Experience supporting grant and proposal development activities
• Experience working with service registry or electronic health record data
• Experience conducting qualitative interviews and/or facilitating focus groups
• Experience working with underserved communities

COMPENSATION:

• PHMC Pay Grade 16
• Salary is commensurate with experience.
• PHMC offers a competitive benefits package that includes generous paid time off; multiple health insurance plan options; a 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching; flexible spending account options; an on-site fitness center; and more. Currently, full-time R&E team members are eligible to work remotely up to two days per week.

PHMC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.