Clinically Oriented Research Assistant in the Vanderbilt Psychiatric Neuromodulation Lab
Job Summary: Full-time research assistant to join a laboratory within the Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital focused on the study of neuromodulation (i.e. brain stimulation) interventions for substance use and psychotic disorders. Under direct supervision, the research assistant will be responsible for recruiting research subjects into clinical research studies and assisting investigators in the collection and analysis of study data.
In particular, the research assistant will work alongside the principal investigator to conduct randomized, controlled trials of neuromodulation (transcranial magnetic stimulation, TMS) for substance use (cannabis, nicotine, opioids) in people with and without psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. This will require a desire to work directly with individuals who experience psychiatric disorders and substance dependence as well as excellent organizational and data management skills.
The research assistant will be responsible for:
• Recruiting research participants into research studies (independently or in conjunction with other clinical research staff)
• Assessing the participant’s eligibility for research studies
• Discussing informed consent with research subjects
• Scheduling research study visits
• Conducting clinical interviews of psychiatric symptoms and substance use
• Administering cognitive tests
• Carrying out neuroimaging study protocols
• Administering TMS with supervision
• Using PsychoPy, EPrime, REDCap, Matlab, and R statistical software to collect and analyze data
• Checking and maintaining data quality
The research assistant will be an integral part of the study team, will regularly attend clinical meetings and will assist with recruitment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Additional responsibilities include assisting with the management of Institutional Review Board approvals, database management, analysis of behavioral and brain imaging data, and assisting with manuscript preparation.
The ideal candidate should be highly motivated and capable of working independently. Individuals interested in mental health, interventional psychiatry, neuromodulation, psychosis, addiction, and clinical trials are especially encouraged to apply. The position requires a high level of interpersonal skills, organization, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. It is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing an MD or PhD in neuroscience, psychology, or a related field. Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, or a related field. Experience in clinical research is highly desirable. Training in administration of TMS, clinical interviewing, cognitive testing, and neuroimaging data analysis will be provided.
This position requires a 2-year commitment.
Please send resume and cover letter to: heather.b.ward@vumc.org