Research Assistant - Term at Vanderbilt University

JOB TITLE:

Research Assistant (RA)

DEPARTMENT:

The Neural Enhancement of Learning Lab (NELL)

Department of Special Education | Peabody College 

SUPERVISOR:

Dr. Katherine Aboud and Dr. Tess Fotidzis

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION

The Neural Enhancement of Learning Lab (NELL) (Dr. Katherine Aboud, P.I.) is seeking a highly motivated and self-directed Masters Level (MA or equivalent in experience) Research Assistant (RA), to assist the NELL to perform a wide variety of complex and independent activities to plan, organize, and conduct research investigating the neurobiological patterns of reading and learning using neuroimaging and non-invasive brain stimulation. This is a part-time (10-20 hours/week) paid position, with compensation commensurate with Vanderbilt University’s RA stipend levels. The position will be supervised by Dr. Katherine Aboud.

The MA RA will assist with conducting various clinical research protocols, while assuring integrity and quality of the research is maintained and is conducted in accordance with Vanderbilt Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulations, federal and sponsor regulations and guidelines, Vanderbilt Policy and Procedure, and NELL research protocols. The RA will independently implement research protocols to assure study-related procedures are performed as required and objectives and timelines.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

Key Functions and Expected Performances 

Knowledge and understanding of the implementation, coordination, management, and reporting of research operations:

 

• Understand and accurately and compliantly perform the procedures required of each study protocol

• Work collaboratively with study participants, other NELL key study personnel (KSP), and departments, in safely and accurately performing study procedures:

   

  • Study procedures include (but are not limited to): 

    • collecting sensitive participant data to determine eligibility;

    • recruiting/consenting participants;

    • coordinating, arranging & preparing study testing schedules and visits;

    • collecting and maintaining current and accurate participant data records and storage (in compliance with IRB and Sponsor regulations and NELL SOPs)

    • supporting the administration and collection of study research data, including paper/pencil tests, brain imaging, non-invasive brain stimulation;

    • supporting data preparation and fidelity check processes of research data;

      
      
       

MINOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Serve as an advocate for human subjects by establishing and maintaining communication with Investigators, research staff, Sponsors, & participant:

• Successfully complete all CITI Training, Protection of Minors, Humans Participants of Research trainings, and the like, and adhere to all required compliance regulations.

• Engage in open communication with participants by providing them with contact information and being available to answer, address, or refer their questions or calls. 

• Engage in weekly lab meetings, and other pertinent KSP and VU trainings and workshops, as applicable.

• Participate in data collection trainings with periodic fidelity checks

• Assist with other research lab and data collection related tasks and projects, as applicable

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

Education: 

A post-secondary degree in a related field is required

Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of previous research experience or relevant advanced coursework is preferred.

• Exposure to neuroimaging methods, including fMRI, EEG and non-invasive brain stimulation, is preferred 

• Experience with REDCap is preferred

• Experience with data management is preferred.
  
   

   

KEY COMPETENCIES

• advanced computer skills 

• excellent interpersonal skills

• advanced writing and communication skills

• professionalism

Other:

In addition, the ideal candidate: 

• is observant, self-directed and a quick learner;

  • is thorough, accurate, organized, and productive;

  • exercises extreme attention to detail and caution;

  • is able to easily identify and correct errors or problems;  

  • has excellent interpersonal skills, and communicates effectively; 

  • is friendly, creative, and flexible;

  • can plan and organize effectively;

  • is able to navigate and manage complex projects with many moving parts

  • demonstrates an enthusiastic and motivated work ethic  

  • delivers high-quality work
    
     

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

May be required to sit, stand, walk, reach, bend, or lift