Research Assistant I ( Healthy Aging Initiative)

Research Assistant carries out research activities for the Health Aging Initiative, a longitudinal study investigating risks and protective factors of health and disease in aging. This study involves assessment of gait, lifestyle, medical history, cognition, anxiety, depression, vision, hearing, and blood biomarkers and other variables via phone survey and in-person assessment. Roles include communicating with a diverse population of older adults, data collection and management, conducting study assessments both over the phone and in-person, processing participant reports, and maintaining records for internal and external regulatory purposes. Must have a working knowledge of the conduct of research protocols and it is preferred to have knowledge specific to health and well-being in aging, gait and cognitive dysfunction, and other study related core concepts.

• In collaboration with others, carries out research activities for research focused on healthy aging. Role would include conducting informed consent with research participants, conducting participant screenings, scheduling sessions with research participants, administering questionnaires by phone and in-person, conducting in-person assessments with older adult research participants across numerous HSL housing sites.
• Ability to follow standardized research protocol for assessments of cognition, gait, grip strength, BMI, blood pressure, vision, and hearing.
• Must have a working knowledge of the conduct of research protocols.
• Must have familiarity with data collection and management. Experience with REDCap is preferred.
• Prepares reports for research participants on assessment results, notifies appropriate contacts of their participation in the study at the participant’s request.
• Assists with recruitment of research participants as needed.
• Maintains familiarity with current scientific literature and may assist with scientific research papers
• Exercises discretion and independent judgment on significant research project matters by evaluating and comparing possible courses of action and making a decision or recommendation after considering the possibilities.
• Completes special projects as assigned.
• The above covers the most significant responsibilities of the position. It does not, however, exclude other duties, which would be in conformity with the level of the position

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline such as biology, psychology, neuroscience, or similar field, including relevant clinical or academic research experience.
• Previous work with older adults is strongly preferred.
• General computer literacy required; experience with Windows, Word, and Excel. Experience with REDCap is helpful.
• Must have excellent interpersonal skills, both in person and over the phone.
• Shows careful attention to details and compliance with participant confidentiality.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills. Must demonstrate flexibility in regards to project demands, i.e. adapting to changes in schedules, coverage gaps, new technologies, and unanticipated participant needs.
• Must be self-motivated and comfortable balancing independent and collaborative work.
• Must have a positive demeanor, good intuition, and sound judgment, with the ability to handle even difficult situations.
• Access to a car for local travel to HSL housing sites within the Boston area for study related activities strongly preferred.