Research Project Assistant

About the role

The Center for Women's Biobehavioral Health Research, led by PI Rebecca Thurston, focuses on improving women’s health during midlife and later years. Based at Sterling Plaza within the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, the center supports studies such as the Study of Women Across the Nation and an industry-sponsored menopause trial examining how a prescription treatment for hot flashes affects brain, cognitive, and vascular outcomes in midlife women.

The Research Project Assistant is an important part of the team responsible for running and coordinating research activities at the center. This position works closely with the Study Coordinator and investigative staff to support accurate, safe, and protocol-compliant study execution.

This is a grant-funded position.

Key responsibilities

• Find, pre-screen, and enroll participants; explain study procedures; and obtain informed consent for screening activities in line with IRB-approved processes.
• Support all phases of the FAVES-B study and serve as a participant contact for day-to-day study communication.
• Conduct structured interviews and cognitive assessments, take physical measurements, train participants on wearable devices, and accompany them to evaluations performed at other campus laboratories.
• Handle blood and other biological specimens, including venipuncture, blood collection, preparation of phlebotomy supplies, labeling, storage, transport, and safe processing of samples according to study protocol.
• Record information in study databases accurately and promptly.
• Carry out additional duties as needed to help advance the research program and its objectives.

Experience and qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree is required, ideally in Psychology, Neuroscience, Sociology, or a related research discipline.
• At least 2 years of experience in a research project or a similar clinical environment is required.
• Comfort using computers and standard software tools is necessary.
• Understanding of research methods is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in supervision or project management is an advantage.
• Prior exposure to clinical trials or clinical research, along with strong protocol-based operations, participant safety practices, and regulatory documentation skills, is required.
• Experience with regulatory paperwork, phlebotomy, cognitive testing, wearable devices, and women’s health or menopause research is highly desirable.

Compliance and clearance

This role requires Act 34 clearance.

Additional information

The employer is an equal opportunity organization and considers applicants regardless of disability or veteran status.