POSITION DESCRIPTION:

We are seeking a full time research assistant to join our team and assist with conducting a novel primary care-based cluster randomized trial at Montefiore Medical Group and the VA Hospital.  The experimental intervention entitled Goals for Eating and Moving (GEM), utilizes a novel goal setting approach delivered via tablet computers, team based care, trained health coaches, and primary care physicians to encourage goal-setting and weight management.  The control intervention is enhanced usual care that includes printed weight management information and listing of locally available resources. The clinical trial will be implemented at multiple urban health centers including the VA New York Harbor (VA) and at sites within the Montefiore Medical Group (MMG). Study outcomes will address the effects of the GEM intervention on weight loss and health outcomes. This position provides opportunity to gain experience working and learning about academic/medical research, recruitment, retention, quality control methods and data entry, the successful candidate will benefit from working with a research team of diverse interdisciplinary backgrounds. The research team is comprised of the Principal Investigator, Co-Investigators, Senior Program Managers, Study Coordinators, Health Coaches, Research Assistants, Consultants, Data Managers/Analysts, and other health service specialists. Dr. Judith Wylie-Rosett (Einstein/Montefiore) and Dr. Melanie Jay (NYU) and their teams conduct research aimed to improve the treatment and prevention of obesity in primary care.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES:
While understanding the objectives of the study, surveys and other material used in the study, the research assistant will participate in multiple aspects of the research study, and perform duties as assigned by the Study Coordinator, under the direction of the Principal Investigator and Research Managerial team, as detailed below:


§  Understanding the objectives of the study, surveys and other material used in the study

§  Identifying eligible patients from the electronic health record

§  Screening, recruiting and obtaining informed consent from eligible patients

§  Contacting potential candidates (mail/phone/in-person) in a professional manner, complying with Human Subjects research requirements

§  Obtaining baseline measures and weight

§  Interviewing participants to obtain survey data as per protocol

§  Monitoring retention strategies

§  Ensuring accuracy when entering data into the study database

§  Assisting team in development and distribution of recruitment materials, for internal and external use, using various computer programs

§  Assisting Study Coordinator with setting up meetings and participate in these meetings as necessary

§  Assisting with IRB and grant related tasks, preparation of documents and presentations, as requested by research team

§  Updating team on progress made at each MMG site via email to Study Coordinator and Principal Investigator

§  Perform other administrative duties, as requested by study leadership research team.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS:

§  Bilingual in English and Spanish

§  Strong interpersonal, writing, computer skills and able to learn new computer systems

§  Able to take directives from team leaders and be a team player

§  Has attention to detail, good time management skills and shows initiative

§  Active listener, compassionate, empathetic, non-judgmental, motivated

§  Acts in an professional manner with study participants and staff and observe all requirements regarding patient privacy and confidentiality

§  Has an interest in pursuing a career in healthcare, health policy, health-related research, or health technology or related fields

§  Able to work at various Bronx locations and able to commute to Manhattan for  training and periodic team meetings as needed

§  Experience with health, diet, or lifestyle research is desirable

§  Data collection (develop measurements, administer surveys) is desirable

§  Data management (Excel, REDCap) is desirable
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

§  High school graduate plus 6 months to 1 year of clerical experience is required.

§  Bachelor’s degree in psychology, nutrition, health education or other health-related field is preferred.

§  Interest in research with experience in at least 1-2 of the following or other areas relevant to our research project: data management, data collection, participant recruitment, IRB or grant materials and applications, experience working with a diverse population.
APPLICANTS:
In your cover letter please reference and describe your interest to be part of our study, relevant experience and areas of interest. Click here<https://ww3.hunter.cuny.edu/prehealth/view.php?id=53535> to apply.