Research Assistant (Temporary Casual)

The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Minnesota announces an outstanding opportunity to join a dynamic and growing academic medicine department as Temporary Casual Research Staff in the Kowalski Lab within the Division of Research and Innovation.

The Research Staff position will play a key role in coordinating participant recruitment, consent, and enrollment, and maintaining and managing study data in REDCap. This position will also assist with data collection, data entry, and preliminary data analysis, and assist in the development of scientific manuscripts and conference submissions.

This is a hybrid position, with the expectation of working on-site 1-2 days per week for participant recruitment and data collection sessions. The remaining time may be worked remotely, providing flexibility while maintaining a close connection with colleagues and research teams.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

70% - Database Management & Collection
*Conduct participant screening, enrollment, and informed consent processes in compliance with IRB-approved protocols, maintaining rigorous attention to detail, ethical standards, and respect for participant autonomy.
*Assist with data collection activities, ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and integrity of data in alignment with study protocols, institutional policies, and ethical standards.
*Design, develop, and/or manage research databases (e.g., REDCap, Qualtrics, or other platforms), including data entry interfaces, logic checks, user permissions, and standardized reporting tools to support effective data capture and analysis.
*Train and support study personnel and collaborators on data collection protocols, database usage, and human subjects protections to ensure consistent and compliant research practices across sites.

5% - Project Management & Study Coordination
*Support day-to-day operations of assigned research studies, ensuring that timelines and deliverables are met across all phases of the project.
*Support team meetings by taking detailed meeting minutes, tracking action items, and following up with team members to ensure accountability and progress toward study objectives.

25% - Other Duties as Assigned
*Assist with the preparation of presentations, abstracts, and manuscripts for scientific meetings and publications.
*Support onboarding and mentorship of new team members, students, or residents involved in research projects.
*Provide general research support and perform other duties as requested by the principal investigator or research leadership team to advance project success and team effectiveness.

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
*Bachelor's degree with a background in child development and/or neuroscience.
*Clinical research experience in pediatric populations, including data collection, analysis, and scientific publication.
*Skilled in working effectively with interdisciplinary and cross-functional teams, including physicians, principal investigators, research staff, and administrative personnel.
*Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
*Strong interpersonal and team collaboration skills; able to foster inclusive, productive work environments.
*Highly organized and self-directed, with a strong ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
*Demonstrated ability to synthesize and communicate complex information clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats.
*Able to work 10-14 hours per week.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
*Proficiency in data programming/analysis using R, Python, and/or SPSS.
*Experience with REDCap, including form development, data entry, and data export.
*Demonstrated experience implementing innovative technology solutions, optimizing research workflows, and refining administrative procedures in clinical research settings.
*Working knowledge of academic research infrastructure, including institutional services, resources, and operational processes that support research development and execution.

This position is located in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine .

Pay Range: $15.25-$22.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).