Research Specialist – The Longitudinal Study of Late-Life Suicide

We are looking for a Research Specialist to work in two research projects supported by the National Institute of Mental Health:

1) The Longitudinal Study of Late-Life Suicide seeks to understand the dynamic interplay of biological and psychological factors of aging that either protect against or exacerbates the risk of suicide in late-life. We conduct a longitudinal study that assesses suicidal ideation trajectories, changes in cognitive performance and uses the decision process paradigm and event momentary assessment measuring real-time affect changes and sleep to understand how cognitive abilities, decision making, emotional changes and circadian rhythm contribute to suicide risk. In addition to our detailed clinical characterization (DSM diagnoses, personality traits, suicide history) we use neurocognitive assessments, game theory experiments, and decision process measures to understand how cognitive abilities and decision making contribute to suicide risk. Please visit our website gsuicide.pitt.edu for more information.

2) Bereaved persons are approximately three times more likely than non-bereaved persons to die by suicide. The loss of a spouse during late life is also associated with a felt sense of social disconnection, lack of engagement in pleasant activities, and disruptions in daily routines. The Rhythms after loss for Improving Suicidal Risk in Elders (RISE) Study examines the risk for and resilience to late-life suicide during the early spousal bereavement period and whether a digital health intervention that targets the timing and regularity of social activities, sleep (circadian rhythm), and meals and includes a weekly health coaching sessions can help reduce suicide risk amongst older adults. This study uses motivational interviewing techniques (health coaching), mood, behavior, psychosocial, neurocognitive assessments, and RAR stability measures (Actiwatch) to assess levels of suicide risk and depression and impact of a digital behavioral probe during the journey of grief. Please visit, gsuicide.pitt.edu/szanto_participate.html for more information. 

Our lab offers a collaborative environment that fosters academic growth and mentorship; staff are encouraged to engage in independent research projects which may lead to related poster presentations at academic conferences and contributions to scientific publications. This position is suitable for those who are interested in pursuing academic and or clinical advancement. 

Applicants with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree are encouraged to apply. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to apply for further graduate studies, such as a doctoral program in Psychology, Neuroscience, or medical studies. The ideal candidate has experience working with older adults populations and has experience with diagnostic interviews and neuropsychological assessments. This candidate should have strong written, verbal and communication skills, some experience in psychology and or research and an interest in suicide research. The candidate may also have an interest in or experience with data management, with many on the job opportunities to learn more about advanced data management and clinical processes. 

This position is grant funded.

Responsibilities:

• Independently execute job functions for research protocol(s) including recruitment, scheduling appointments, obtaining written consent forms, collecting data by conducting phone, virtual and face to face visits for research project(s), attend the inpatient psychiatric unit (WPIC) and/or the sleep and behavioral neuroscience center (SBNC) to administer assessments, and provide administrative support when needed.
• Under direction of PI, conduct structured diagnostic interviews, mood, behavioral, psychosocial and neuropsychological assessments with reliable administration and data entry/documentation.
• Participate and attend weekly project specific and lab enrichment meetings that focus on current relevant topics in each project and the research field.
• Collaborate with senior research personnel regarding recruitment, data collection, outcomes of interviews, reports according to the needs of the study.