Researcher 4 (351365)

Job Description

Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team (MK-MDT) conducts research on dementia and its associated risks and co-morbidities in collaboration with Indigenous and rural communities in the Great Lakes Region.  Reporting to the Executive Director, this Researcher 4 will be responsible for research activities related to the Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Disparities: The American Indigenous Cognitive Assessment (AMICA) Project.

AMICA will address dementia disparities by developing a culturally appropriate dementia evaluation toolkit for American Indian populations. Using community-based research approaches we work closely with community partners to revise existing Indigenous assessments to align with American Indian populations.

Project coordination
• Project management and coordination of project timelines and deliverables for MN site
• Provide project management assistance to overall project coordinator
• Attend all AMICA team meetings, including all site coordinator meetings to discuss progress on research activities and tool adaptation, problem solve and address any barriers
• Other administrative duties as needed

Research activities
• Qualitative data collection, analysis, and dissemination
• Prepare briefing notes from tool adaptation process
• Assist community researchers and study nurse with collection of telehealth evaluations
• Assist AMICA team members with writing research articles for publication – conducting literature reviews, writing methods sections, and/or other relevant sections
• Work collaboratively with staff and community partners to support the MK-MDT vision of healthy aging in American Indian and rural populations

All required qualifications must be documented on application materials

Required qualifications:
• Master’s degree with 2 years related experiences or BS/BA and 4 years of related experience with research and coordination experience
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Ability to travel, including overnight, to locations in Rural Minnesota and to national and international conferences

Preferred qualifications:
• Master’s degree in Health Science, Public Health, Neuro/Clinical/Community Psychology, Social Sciences (Medical Sociology, Medical Anthropology, American Indigenous Studies, or Community Health) or other Health Related Discipline
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a research role
• Project coordination and data management skills
• Experience with qualitative and Indigenous research methods
• Experience related to research projects with Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge and understanding of the health of older adults and/or age-related neurological conditions
• Knowledge and awareness of community-based participatory research
• Experience in the area of intervention design or implementation science
• Experience drafting or writing grant applications, ethics protocols and research reports

The mission of the University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth campus is to be a national leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes in rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.

We do this by:

• Educating medical students dedicated to serving rural Minnesota and American Indian/Alaska Native communities

• Fostering excellence in research

• Emphasizing the training of physicians in Family Medicine

• Creating strong partnerships locally, regionally, nationally and internationally

• Working in innovative, interdisciplinary and inter-professional teams

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:  https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax