Research Associate 2

University of Miami•Miami, FL

27d

About The Position

The Research Associate 2 supports the implementation of behavioral, community-based, and cancer prevention research studies within the Behavioral Community-Based Research Shared Resource (BCSR). This position is responsible for implementing and coordinating day-to-day research activities, participant engagement, data collection and management, and compliance monitoring to support the smooth operation of multiple BCSR studies. This role requires strong attention to detail, interpersonal skills, and a commitment to conducting ethical, community-engaged research. Working under the direction of BCSR managers and in close collaboration with BCSR Senior Research Associates, the Research Associate 2 exercises independent judgment and initiative in the execution of study protocols, regulatory compliance, and participant outreach, while contributing to the overall success of research efforts focused on underserved and diverse communities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public health, psychology, social science, biology, or related field.
At least two years of experience in research, healthcare, or community engagement setting.
Strong oral and written communication skills in English.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry platforms; familiarity with REDCap, VELOS, EPIC, NVivo, or Cerner is a plus.
May be required to travel to various locations and adapt to a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Fluency in Spanish or Haitian Creole.
Experience conducting community and clinic based research or working with underserved populations.
Knowledge of human subjects research protections
Training or certification in phlebotomy is a plus or willingness to obtain phlebotomy training and certification
Ability to multitask and manage multiple research protocols simultaneously.
Knowledge of medical terminology.

Responsibilities

Establishes screening procedures in collaboration with Principal Investigators to identify eligible study participants.
Conducts comprehensive data collection from sources such as electronic medical records (e.g., EPIC, Cerner), interviews, questionnaires, and other research sources.
Coordinates logistics for study implementation across community clinic and academic settings.
Performs electronic medical chart reviews at key stages of study participation and updates participant records in systems like VELOS.
Assists with the coordination and execution of behavioral interventions, focus groups, and structured interviews.
Maintains screening logs and participant databases.
Collects, processes, packs, and ships specimens (blood, saliva, urine, fecal, etc.) according to protocol, applicable standards and regulations, and coordinates with appropriate laboratories for drop off and storage.
Recruits, consents, and enrolls participants into ongoing studies in accordance with IRB-approved protocols.
Maintains and organizes accurate and confidential participant contact information and research documentation.
Ensures culturally appropriate and respectful communication, with the ability to engage participants in English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole.
Establishes and maintains ongoing contact with participants and serves as a liaison between research team and community stakeholders and healthcare providers.
Participates in community events, outreach activities, engagement forums, as needed.
Conducts simple data collection in the form of structured and semi-structured interviews, and survey administration
Assists Senior Research Associates with focus groups and unstructured interviews
Enters, maintains, and monitors data in project databases, ensuring data integrity, accuracy, and consistency.
Supports quality data checks, transcription and coding under supervision.
Tracks participant enrollment and progress through detailed logs and generates enrollment reports.
Extracts data from electronic medical records such as Epic and/or Cerner.
Schedules participant appointments and coordinates project calendars.
Assists with planning team meetings and prepares detailed minutes and follow-up documentation.
Assists senior research associates with qualitative data analysis in Nvivo and/or using rapid analysis techniques.
Prepares summaries, charts, and basic descriptive statistics to support project reporting.
Maintains and updates research documentation in compliance with IRB, HIPAA, HSRO, DSMC, and sponsor requirements.
Ensures all participant consent forms and study-related correspondence are maintained and stored securely.
If certified/trained in phlebotomy, performs venipuncture and collects laboratory samples in accordance with study protocols.
Orders and maintains necessary supplies and materials for research studies and office functions.
Provides logistical support for team meetings, CAB meetings, and community collaborations.
Assists with preparation of study related reports, tracking logs, and meeting notes.
Participates in trainings and activities related to community engaged research.
Participates in BCSR-led trainings on research ethics, study implementation, and community engagement.
Engages in professional development and learning activities to enhance research capabilities.
Collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to ensure timely and high-quality execution of research activities.