Research Assistant

Springfield, MA

General Description:

The Research Assistant (RA) will support various existing and emerging research initiatives at

the Caring Health Center (CHC), working collaboratively with the research team to advance

community health outcomes through data collection, analysis, and participant engagement.

Reports to: Vice President, Research & Population Health

Salary/Status: Non-Exempt

Hours: 40 hours/week

Minimum Requirements:

Associate’s Degree (Bachelor’s Degree preferred) or equivalent background and experience

At least 2 years of experience working in a primary care, research, or community-based

environment, or one year of experience with social science or public health research or the

equivalent.

Complete fluency in oral and written English.

Fluency in another language (Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Vietnamese, or Nepali, preferred).

Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented

Ability to use a computer, Microsoft Office, proficient in accessing and searching the internet

and in developing/maintaining Google docs, Excel spreadsheets, and other study-related

systems/ platforms

Must have the ability to be on-site and travel between health center sites, partner

organizations, and attend regional/state-wide meetings (having own transportation preferred)

Principle Responsibilities and Duties:

Assist investigators and research team with all phases of research development and

implementation (e.g., protocol development, IRB application/renewal, data tracking,

reporting, dissemination)

Demonstrated outreach and interviewing experience

Conduct structured interviews with community members and study participants

Build and maintain positive relationships with study participants and community members

Facilitate passive referrals to appropriate health and social service agencies

Support participant recruitment and retention efforts

For bilingual candidates, provide real-time translation during community engagement

activities.

Research Assistant

Extract and compile data from electronic medical records and other clinical sources

Transcribe data collection materials from in-depth participant interviews, focus groups, etc.

Enter and validate research data into designated database systems

Assist in organizing and maintaining research files and documentation

Support quality control processes for data accuracy and completeness

Help prepare data for analysis and reporting/dissemination

Maintain detailed documentation of all research activities and participant interactions

Excellent interpersonal communication skills

Assist with the preparation of research materials and documentation

Support compliance with research protocols and regulatory requirements

Attend and contribute to research team meetings

Must show discretion in the handling of confidential information

Must possess the ability to work independently, problem solve and make decisions when

necessary

Working Conditions:

● Position requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and typing on a computer; ability

to stand for prolonged periods of time; ability to perform moderate activities such as

climbing stairs, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds at times; and

potential exposure to adverse outdoor environmental conditions. 

JOB CODE: 1000058