Research Coordinator
The Research Coordinator will be expected to independently execute job functions related to projects within the Personality, Emotions, and Relationships Lab (PEARL) for PI Lori Scott. PEARL is focused on longitudinal studies of risk and resilience for suicide, self-harm, and personality disorders across the lifespan. We also conduct studies of suicide risk in autistic adults in collaboration with other investigators in the department. The primary responsibility is project coordination for the DEAR study – an intensive longitudinal study of suicide risk factors in adults that involves clinical interviews, surveys, and ecological momentary assessment with ambulatory psychophysiology.
This position is grant funded.
Responsibilities:
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Coordinate participant and recruitment flow, participant appointments, and all aspects of data collection.
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Screen and consent participants.
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Administer tests to participants.
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Pay and track payment to participants.
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Data entry and filing of participant paperwork.
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Work with clinicians, clinical leaders, and clinical teams within UPMC outpatient and inpatient services to develop recruitment procedures for identifying and recruiting patients with recent suicide attempts.
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Organize and attend weekly study meetings, create agenda, and take meeting minutes.
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Organize and attend Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) meetings, create agenda, and take meeting minutes.
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Assist with creation of DSMB charter and biannual DSMB reports.
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Complete all IRB modifications and renewals and communicate updates to the team.
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Primary Office of Academic Computing (OAC) and Office of Data Management (ODM) contact; attend OAC and ODM meetings; give them necessary information.
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Coordinate data pulls for study investigators, trainees, and collaborators as needed.
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Create or work with ODM and/or OAC to develop a data dictionary that includes updates on versions or changes.
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Develop a system for and oversee data audits (either completing them or supervising the data manager, other staff, or undergraduates, etc.).
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Review notice of grant award and have primary responsibility for ensuring we are addressing all requirements.
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Monitor publication access compliance for DEAR publications; help with submission to comply as needed.
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Monitor and submit NIMH milestones reports.
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Monitor all deadlines and communicate with the team so that study targets are met.
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Monitor targets in data (i.e., percent with recent suicide attempt, racial diversity, sex distribution).
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Coordinate and track repeat assessment data collection.
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Track progress of, and obtain necessary documentation for, all office of grants and contract paperwork requests (i.e., yearly activations).
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Complete Rigor & Reproducibility-related projects/MOP.
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Update/formatting of every version of the MOP; Create and update a folder with all current documents on OneDrive.
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Assist in the preparation/organization of progress reports.
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Order study supplies and equipment, and coordinate ordering needs with the team; follow UPMC/Pitt ordering procedures and policies
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Assist with tracking decisions that need to be made or are made. As decisions or made or files revised, ensure final documents are on OneDrive
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Coordinate logistics (e.g., parking for study visits)
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Participant in weekly supervision.
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Follow appropriate research policies and procedures including all applicable laws and regulations and maintains scientific integrity including accurate data storage.
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Follow the mandatory reporting procedures for any incident or serious event that did affect or potentially could have affected the clinical care of any patient.
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Able to work evenings and weekends when needed.
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Perform other duties related to the research project as requested by the investigators.
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Perform in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
*The above statement reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all of the work requirements that may be inherent in the job, nor shall it be interpreted as limiting an employee in performing duties other than those normally performed or from helping employees in other position or units.
Qualifications:
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B.A. degree, or equivalent combination of experience and training
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Including 3-5 years of experience in coordinating multiple aspects of research projects (patient recruitment, assessment, treatment planning, and data collection,) required.
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Computer Skills (Microsoft Office Products).
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IRB experience preferred.
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Ability to accurately collect, and store research data.
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Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
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Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with patients, staff and investigators as well as maintain patient confidentiality
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Strong organizational skills.
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Ability to work independently, must be able to work a flexible schedule based on study needs.
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Ability to interact with patients/study participants and research and medical staff.
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Knowledge and skills necessary to provide care and/or interact appropriately to the ages of the patients served by his/her assigned unit as specified below.
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Knowledge of the principles of growth and cognition over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient’s status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient’s requirements relative to his/her age specific needs and to provide the care needs as described in the department’s policy and procedures.
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Experience with individuals at risk for suicide is required.
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Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
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Experience with adolescents and/or adults with autism or other developmental disabilities is preferred.
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IRB experience preferred.
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Knowledge of administering the C-SSRS or other structured suicide risk assessments preferred.
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Experience working with multidisciplinary teams, particularly inpatient settings, preferred.
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Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.
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Prior supervisory and/or project management experience preferred.
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Must have excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
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Must be able to work independently once trained in a fast-paced environment.
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Must be available to work evenings and/or weekends as needed.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
- Act 31 Child Abuse Reporting with renewal
- Act 33 with renewal
- Act 34 with renewal
- Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
CAREER GROWTH
Grow Your Nursing Career
Spanning over 20 clinical specialties and more than 50 unique nursing roles, every nurse at UPMC can achieve and advance their goals with the My Nursing Career Ladder. Whether you’re looking to progress to an elevated role or continue your education, UPMC equips nurses with the resources, feedback, leadership, and benefits to help you succeed and achieve your career goals. Here’s how a few nurses have grown their careers through the years at UPMC:
Clyde C.
As a Professional Staff Nurse, Expert at UPMC Muncy, Clyde is a great example of someone who has taken advantage of UPMC’s My Nursing Career Ladder to grow his career while remaining in the same hospital location.
Clyde’s Career Journey:
⦁ 2017: Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2021: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2022: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse II – UPMC Muncy
⦁ 2022-present: Professional Staff Nurse, Expert – UPMC Muncy

Michelle B.
In her current role as a Professional Staff Nurse, Expert at UPMC Presbyterian, Michelle cares for patients with chronic and ongoing health issues as part of a Medical-Surgical unit. Michelle enjoys the daily change that Med-Surg nursing brings, and has found a career path that is interesting, meaningful, and full of opportunity.
Michelle’s Career Journey:
⦁ 2019: Staff Nurse – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2020: Professional Staff Nurse – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2021: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2021: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2022: Sr. Professional Staff Nurse II, BSN – UPMC Presbyterian
⦁ 2023: Professional Staff Nurse, BSN, Expert – UPMC Presbyterian

INSURANCE SERVICES DIVISION OF UPMC
Advance Your Future
A career with UPMC means more than just caring for patients – when you’re a part of UPMC Insurance Services Division, it means caring for more than four million insurance members, too. UPMC Insurance Services Division offers a full range of health insurance products and services to our network across the country, providing peace of mind, better health, and financial security to our members, along with limitless career opportunities and a rewarding mission to those on our team.
About UPMC Insurance Services Division
As an integrated health care provider-insurer, UPMC goes beyond patient care to provide insurance products and services to millions of members. Our team partners with UPMC and community network providers to deliver knowledge and expertise that provides the highest quality care at the most affordable price, supporting our members through service, communication, and more.
Fast Facts:
- We provide insurance products and services to over more than four million members.
- UPMC’s Insurance Services Division offers a full range of health insurance options including UPMC Health Plan, Workpartners, UPMC for Life, UPMC for You, UPMC for Kids, UPMC Community HealthChoices, and Community Care Behavioral Health.
- UPMC Health Plan is among the nation’s fastest-growing health plans.
Opportunities on Our Team
We’ve got a job that’s just right for you! UPMC Insurance Services Division team offers a vast array of career paths and opportunities, from career areas like customer service, data analytics, and information technology and even patient care roles like social work, nursing, and care management.
Whether in non-clinical or patient-facing roles, our team impacts patients and members by providing quality experiences before, during, and after their care, building relationships in a unique and meaningful way.
Recognized for Excellence
Be a part of an award-winning team! UPMC Insurance Services Division has been recognized for outstanding care and service with awards that include:
- U.S. News and World Report named UPMC for Life a “Best Insurance Company for Medicare Advantage” in Pennsylvania for 2024.
- The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has named UPMC Health Plan an “Equality 100 Leader in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion” for 2023–2024.
- UPMC for Life ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction* among Medicare Advantage Plans in Pennsylvania by J.D. Power.
- The Ethisphere Institute named UPMC as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the sixth consecutive year.
*Results are based on award-eligible plans in Pennsylvania by J.D. Power. For J.D. Power 2024 award information visit, jdpower.com/awards.
Jump-Start Your Career
Looking to launch a career with longevity and opportunity? With countless entry-level opportunities for recent graduates, along with tools and resources that empower you as you learn and grow, UPMC Insurance Services Division is the perfect place to get a career started.
Interested in taking your career to new heights? Our career paths and advancement opportunities will provide you with chances to achieve your goals at every step.
BENEFITS AND LIFE AT UPMC
We know that you have many options when choosing where to build your career. So why choose UPMC? We can think of a few reasons.
Work-Life Balance
Finding the ideal balance to manage the important elements in your life.
Development & Opportunities
Enhancing your career through continued learning opportunities and/or advancement.
Compensation
Receiving competitive pay for the work that you do – base pay, merit, and premium pay.
Performance & Recognition
Rewarding performance that supports the goals and mission of UPMC.
Benefits
Providing assistance and security to meet the current and future needs of you and your family.
Work-Life Balance
Finding the ideal balance to manage the important elements in your life.
Development & Opportunities
Enhancing your career through continued learning opportunities and/or advancement.
Compensation
Receiving competitive pay for the work that you do – base pay, merit, and premium pay.
Performance & Recognition
Rewarding performance that supports the goals and mission of UPMC.
Benefits
Providing assistance and security to meet the current and future needs of you and your family.
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing benefits that meet your needs and support your well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing benefits that meet your needs and support your well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Benefits that Matter to You
We’re committed to providing our employees with benefits that meet their needs and support their well-being in all areas of life.
- Earn over 5 weeks of paid time off every year
- Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage
- Student loan assistance and tuition reimbursement options
- Earn up to 8% of your eligible pay in retirement contributions from UPMC
- Employer-paid life insurance
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Tuition assistance for dependents
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
- Flexible work arrangements
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Tuition assistance for dependents
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
- Flexible work arrangements
Support for You – and Your Family
Your career doesn’t impact just you, but the people you care about, too. We’re making sure your career works for the whole family.
- Flexibility to choose the shifts and work arrangements that work best for your lifestyle
- Two weeks of paid parental leave
- Family planning resources
- Comprehensive health care for dependents
- Emergency child and elder care options
A Culture That Cares
At UPMC, you can find a home among people who share your passions and care about who you are.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for Workplace Culture and Engagement
- Programs for veteran engagement
A Culture That Cares
At UPMC, you can find a home among people who share your passions and care about who you are.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for Workplace Culture and Engagement
- Programs for veteran engagement
A Culture That Cares
UPMC is a place where you can find a home, no matter your gender, race, sexual orientation, age, or culture, and where you can meet people who share your passions and care about you.
- Employee resource groups
- Awards for champions of dignity & respect
- Center for Workplace Culture and Engagement
- Programs for Veteran Engagement
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning via LinkedIn Learning
- Accelerated career pathways for growth
- Robust instructor-led education and learning pathways
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning via LinkedIn Learning
- Accelerated career pathways for growth
- Robust instructor-led education and learning pathways
Tools to Reach Your Potential
Once you become a member of our team, the journey doesn’t stop there. UPMC is committed to supporting your growth and helping you build the career of your dreams.
- Unlimited educational possibilities, including no-cost BSN and MSN programs
- Robust career ladders for every nurse – no matter your specialty, location, or career stage
- Up to $6,000 of annual tuition assistance
- Ongoing learning opportunities
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- Dozens of career ladders to climb
- International locations
- State-of-the-art technology
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- Dozens of career ladders to climb
- International locations
- State-of-the-art technology
Expansive Opportunity
Where do you want to go with your career? Wherever it is, UPMC can take you there.
- 100,000 employees
- 40+ hospitals and 800+ doctors’ offices and outpatient sites
- International locations
- State of-the-art technology
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