Human Subject Research Specialist I

This position is for a TAR Human Subjects Research Coordinator (HSRC1) who will serve as an ‘Engage Coach’ interventionist for research studies to reduce loneliness in older adults. Under the general guidance of the principal investigator (PI), with latitude for exercise of independent judgment, the HSRC will provide Engage Coaching via one-on-one sessions with older adult research participants. The goals of Engage Coaching are bolstering motivation for improving social connection, teaching an intentional and active approach to social interactions and relationships, developing problem solving skills, and engaging in repeated behavioral practice with social behaviors that promote feelings of positive social connection. Each research subject receives up to 10 brief sessions (typically 30 minutes), provided weekly over no more than three months. Sessions are provided via video call or in person based on coach and subject preference. Weekly supervision by the study PI Kim Van Orden—a licensed clinical psychologist—is provided as part of weekly job duties. A coach will carry a caseload of 1 to 3 research subjects at a time. Including sessions, administrative tasks (scheduling, paperwork, travel if required) and supervision, hours per week will range from 3 to 9 hours depending on coach preference and availability of research subjects. The position is for one year, but can continue up to 5 years depending on coach preference and availability of research funds.

Responsibilities

Provide Engage Coaching via one-on-one sessions with older adult research participants; Bolster motivation for improving social connection, teach an intentional and active approach to social interactions and relationships, develop problem solving skills, and engage in repeated behavioral practice with social behaviors; Use clinical judgment to provide the Engage Coaching behavioral intervention; Maintain rapport, encourage personal disclosure of sensitive material, and follow ethical principles to maintain participant well-being and safety; Provide appropriate support, information, and referrals to participants in distress; Maintain security of study data and follow study protocol for confidentiality and storage; Present participation information at weekly meetings with the PI; Schedule weekly appointments for coaching sessions; Document session content and missed sessions in the study tracking database; Record sessions using IRB-approved and HIPAA-compliant procedures; Participate in weekly supervision with Dr. Van Orden and other coaches; Review written feedback provided by Dr. Van Orden; Review Engage Coaching interventionist and participant manuals

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required; Associate's degree and completion of 6 months in the Human Subject Research Coordinator Trainee program required; Equivalent combination of education and experience

Nice to have

Prior experience as a Phlebotomist preferred; Word processing and data analysis software preferred; Experience providing services to or conducting research with older adults preferred; Comfort with video calls (Zoom) preferred