Description
Our research lab (Longitudinal Research Program in Late-Life Suicide) seeks to understand the interacting risk and protective factors related to biological and psychosocial factors of aging that lead to the elevated suicide rate in late life. We conduct a longitudinal study of late-life suicide attempters, which provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the predictive value of these risk factors on prospectively assessed suicidal behavior. Currently over 600 participants contributed to our unique dataset. 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. More information about the lab’s research can be found at Longitude | Home (pitt.edu).
The Research Specialist will conduct structured diagnostic interviews, mood, behavioral, and neuropsychological assessments and be responsible for reliable administration and data entry. All team members attend weekly enrichment meetings discussing research in the field. They may also attend the inpatient psychiatric unit to conduct assessments. Applicants with both Bachelor and 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.
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 or face to face interviews for research project(s).
- Collaborate with senior research personnel regarding recruitment, data collection, outcomes of interviews, reports according to the needs of the study.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Psychology, Neuroscience, Sociology or related research field.
- Minimum of one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.
- Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
- Working knowledge of research methodology strongly preferred.
- Minimal commitment of 2-3 years preferred.
- Experience working or volunteering with populations with mental or emotional health diagnoses preferred.
- Experience with Redcap or other data management preferred.
- Experience with diagnostic interviews and neuropsychological assessments preferred.
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
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