To apply for this job, please upload (combined into ONE PDF) a CV/resume, cover letter, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to this position. All inquiries about the position should be emailed to Dr. Elizabeth Salerno (salernoe@umich.edu) with the subject line "Research Specialist Position Inquiry". 

The Healthy Aging after Cancer Laboratory (Principal Investigator: Dr. Elizabeth Salerno, PhD MPH) in the School of Kinesiology is seeking a full-time Research Specialist to join its dynamic research group. This position is integral to supporting efforts in mixed-methods behavioral research projects aimed at improving health outcomes in cancer survivors. The individual in this role will have some engagement with the Institutional Review Board (IRB) staff, administrative and/or functional supervision of lower-level research team members, and implement protocols developed by the investigators. The successful candidate will be reliable, conscientious, organized, interpersonally-skilled, and able to work interdependently within the lab.

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Maternity and parental leave
• University commitment to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities
   

(EF) = Essential Function

Recruitment & Data Collection (EF: 50%)

• Execute and monitor daily study operations by:
  • Recruiting and retaining participants
  • Conducting outcome assessments per protocol
  • Managing study data
  • Solving problems for participants to preserve the integrity of the study

Administrative & Organizational Management (EF: 35%)

• Manage regulatory compliance by obtaining approvals and executing with institutional policies
• Manage budget, purchasing, and participant compensation
• Monitor and report on study progress
• Assist in the preparation of grant applications, reports, and other research-related documents
• Maintain strict adherence to research protocols, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements

Relationship Management (10%)

• Supervise lab staff and support trainees

• Support internal and external communications

   

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
 

• Bachelor's degree in a related field such as kinesiology, public health, behavioral science, or social work
• A minimum of 1-3 years of experience in applied behavioral research or public health initiatives
• Database management experience  (Excel, REDCap)
• Basic descriptive statistics and data visualization using statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS)
• Proven ability to work independently, demonstrate excellent organizational skills, and exhibit strong problem-solving abilities
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and excellent communication skills (essential for frequent interaction with research participants, investigators, and staff)
• Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to a positive workplace culture aligned with the school's core values
   

• Master's degree in a health-related field with at least 2 years of experience in applied behavioral research or public health initiatives
• Experience in oncology research or working with cancer-affected populations
• Demonstrated experience fostering partnerships with clinical organizations
• Experience with data analysis and writing scientific publications
   

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

The position is available immediately and is term-limited, funded for 24 months; the initial appointment may be extended depending on performance and availability of research funds. The salary range is $45,000 - $55,000, commensurate with education and experience. An offer may be extended outside the general salary range shared in this posting based on equity, experience, knowledge, and skills for this role. You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor understanding and transparency throughout the recruiting process. This is an onsite position, located at the School of Kinesiology Building on central U-M campus.

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks will be performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.