Research Assistant II

Working/Functional Title

Biological Specimen Coordinator

Position Summary

The Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Michigan State University is seeking a Research Assistant II to be a coordinator for all study biospecimens and associated databases. This position will provide the applicant with an opportunity to oversee local research protocols & support overall research efforts that are meant to impact maternal and child health in Michigan, and across the nation. This project, Child Health Advances from Research with Mothers (CHARM), is a state-wide study involving scientists from MSU, University of Michigan, Wayne State University, Henry Ford Health System, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

CHARM is a part of a nation-wide cohort, Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO). To date, the CHARM cohort includes more than 1,500 families, while the ECHO cohort boasts a remarkable count of over 35,000 families. Local and national researchers have leveraged the extensive data and samples gathered from these families, leading to the publication of significant scientific findings regarding childhood asthma, neurodevelopment, environmental exposures, stress, sleep, and numerous other domains. Looking ahead, the cohort aims to collect crucial pregnancy-related information that could shed light on the impact of prenatal experiences on long-term child health outcomes.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or related science field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Experience working with research participants; experience working with biological specimens including but not limited to human urine, blood, and placentas; Experience in Ripple; Experience in RedCap; Experience in BioTrack; knowledge of medical terminology; knowledge of Microsoft office including Word and Excel, excellent written and oral communication skills, and attention to detail. Knowledge and experience with R code.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume and cover letter

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded until 05/31/2025 with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Summary of Physical Demands

Yes, this position will need to move boxes of biospecimen supplies that often weigh around 25 pounds.

Summary of Health Risks

This position will be exposed to blood, urine and other human material.

Bidding eligibility ends December 3, 2024 at 11:55 P.M.