Researcher 5 – MK-MDT Senior Research Associate (354747)

Memory Keepers Medical Discovery Team (MK-MDT) conducts research on dementia and its associated risks and co-morbidities in partnership with Indigenous and rural communities. Our modern facilities have been thoughtfully constructed to foster team science approaches to research and well-being. The MK-MDT investigators and staff work collaboratively with academic and community research partners in the US and Canada using a community-based participatory research framework. Reporting to the Research Manager, this Researcher 2 will be responsible for qualitative data analysis and other duties related to multiple MK-MDT projects focused on rural and Indigenous dementia and brain health equity.

Responsibilities

Qualitative analysis (90%)
• Performs social-behavioral research data analysis by following research methodologies and protocols to thoughtfully ensure quality research outcomes and findings, including data entry and data coding using NVIVO qualitative data analysis software
• Conducts secondary level analysis by summarizing preliminary findings in data tables and other deliverables
• Assists in the preparation of transcripts for importation into NVIVO by verifying them with audio files
• Assists in the development of qualitative coding frameworks and definitions
• Assists with running data queries and reliability tests
• Contribute to writing presentations and reports – development of data visualization, formatting, and editing
• Tracks project progress and documents work
• Identifies overarching themes and subthemes in a variety of datasets including interviews, focus groups, interview summaries and field notes
• Maintains confidentiality in data security and management at all times based on university health information and compliance protocols
• Attends and participates in data analyst meetings
• Assist with the development of data collection instruments such as interview and focus group guides, surveys, and screening tools to identify eligible research participants
• Completes all activities by strictly following Good Clinical Practices (GCP) & all relevant current local, state, & federal laws, regulations, guidance, policy & procedure developed by the UMN Institutional Review Board (IRB), Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), & the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH)
• Maintains current Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training for social and behavioral research, as well as Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) training as required

Research administration (10%)
• Assist with the preparation of peer-reviewed journal articles and presentations for national and international conferences.
• Assist with the planning of data analyst and/or coding meetings and takes notes when applicable
• Assists with the development of policies and procedures or work plans related to data analysis
• Attend mandatory MK-MDT staff meetings and training sessions
• Perform other duties as assigned
Time commitment:  40 hours/week during each year
Number of positions:  1
Start Date: Immediate (open to discussion)
Please include CV

**This position is on-site in Duluth MN 55805. Remote or hybrid work will not be considered**

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required qualifications
• BA/BS and at least 1 years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal 5 years.
• Experience with qualitative research methods

Preferred qualifications
• MA/MS in health science, public health, medical anthropology, psychology, or other health related discipline
• Experience using NVIVO qualitative data analysis software
• Ability to compare, verify and reconcile data to help achieve objectives.
• 3 years of experience in a research role
• Experience with qualitative research methods, data collection and analysis
• Experience with mixed methods research
• Experience related to research projects with Indigenous and/or rural communities
• Demonstrated experience with knowledge transfer; ability to write for diverse audiences
• Knowledge and awareness of Indigenous and rural health and Indigenous health research ethics
• Knowledge and understanding of gerontology, rural community health, chronic conditions, and/or age-related neurological conditions
• Experience with health systems, health access, and/or quality of care research
• Experience in community outreach and community engagement

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).

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