Research Associate - Social Sciences

About the Role

The Research Associate will participate in qualitative research by consulting on study design and assisting with grant writing. They will lead qualitative data collection through interviews and focus groups, perform qualitative data analysis, and provide training and mentorship in qualitative research methods. The position is part of the Qualitative and Patient-Reported Outcomes Shared Resource team at Wake Forest University Health Sciences, operating under extramural funding. The role involves coordinating study planning, execution, evaluation, and dissemination activities alongside investigators.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Principal Investigators to design studies and translate plans into actionable tasks.
• Develop and manage study budgets and experimental procedures related to projects and grants.
• Monitor budgets and troubleshoot specialized equipment as needed.
• Prepare grant applications and funding proposals with some autonomy.
• Collect, analyze, and report data to support publications and progress reports.
• Assist in negotiating contracts and subcontracts.
• Ensure timely completion of project phases and adequate staffing for studies.
• Lead hiring decisions and coordinate training for new research personnel.
• Ensure studies comply with protocols and legal regulations.
• Represent the project to community organizations and at national/local scientific meetings, including planning and site visits for multi-site studies if applicable.
• Review scientific literature and contribute to manuscript preparation.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree with at least eight years of relevant research experience.
• Two professional recommendation letters are required.
• Supervisory experience is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of scientific principles and qualitative research methodologies.
• Proficient computer skills and effective communication abilities.
• Experience with public speaking and presenting at national conferences.
• Demonstrated capability in writing grant proposals with minimal oversight.
• Evidence of peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations.

Work Environment and Schedule

This is a full-time, onsite position based in Winston-Salem, NC, with working hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, totaling 40 hours per week. The role offers a clean and comfortable office setting.

Benefits and Compensation

• Annual salary range: $35.50 to $53.25 per hour, based on qualifications, experience, and skills.
• Comprehensive benefits including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Family benefits such as adoption support and paid parental leave.
• Defined contribution retirement plans with employer matching.
• Educational assistance programs and career development opportunities.

About the Employer

Advocate Health is a national nonprofit integrated health system and one of the largest in the US, combining Advocate Aurora Health and Atrium Health. It serves nearly 6 million patients through 69 hospitals and over 1,000 care locations. There is a strong focus on clinical innovation and research, with Wake Forest University School of Medicine as the academic center. Advocate Health is recognized for excellence in various specialized medical areas and provides extensive community benefits and graduate medical education programs.