Part Time - Nursing - Research Assistant

Penn State University; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 4,000 - 5,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University seeks three dedicated part-time Research Assistants to aid in a project focused on advancing patient safety using innovative technology. Applicants should have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities. This position requires a Bachelor's degree along with relevant experience.

The role offers a work schedule of 4 hours per week at a rate of $20 hourly, providing valuable experience in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with clinical research and human subjects' protocols is preferred.
• Knowledge of research software tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist with data collection, entry, and management.
• Support participant recruitment, consent, and engagement.
• Contribute to progress reports and project documentation.
• Manage VR equipment and data as a Virtual Reality Research Assistant.
• Oversee robotic systems and assist with troubleshooting as a Robotics Research Assistant.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to work independently

Experience in research settings

Proficiency in using computer databases

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field

Job description

Job Description

The College of Nursing at Penn State University is seeking three dedicated and detail‑oriented part‑time Research Assistants to support a cutting‑edge project funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The project, "Center for Immersive Learning and Digital Innovation: A Patient Safety Learning Lab," aims to advance patient safety through design, systems engineering, and health services research. The research focuses on developing and evaluating innovative solutions such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and robotic systems to reduce central line‑associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and improve patient outcomes.

Job Duties

• Data Management and Analysis
  • Assist with data collection, entry, and management to ensure accuracy and compliance with study protocols.
  • Conduct preliminary data analysis under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co‑Investigators.
  • Maintain detailed and organized records of all data and activities.
• Participant Engagement
  • Support participant recruitment, consent, and engagement activities.
  • Coordinate participant schedules and ensure timely follow‑up for study activities.
  • Assist in maintaining participant confidentiality and adherence to ethical guidelines.
• Project Coordination
  • Contribute to progress reports and project documentation.
  • Coordinate with the Research Coordinator and other team members to maintain effective communication and workflow.
  • Participate in regular team meetings to discuss project progress and address any challenges.
• Specific Responsibilities by Study Arm
  • Virtual Reality Research Assistant
    • Manage VR equipment and data.
    • Ensure proper setup and maintenance of VR systems for study participants.
  • Mixed Reality Research Assistant
    • Focus on MR activities and data.
    • Support the development and implementation of MR‑based study protocols.
  • Robotics Research Assistant
    • Oversee robotic systems and data collection.
    • Assist with the setup, operation, and troubleshooting of robotic equipment.
• Compliance and Regulatory Support
  • Ensure compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
  • Assist with maintaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols and study documentation.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in research settings, particularly with clinical research and human subjects' protocols, is preferred.
• Proficiency in using computer databases and familiarity with research software tools.
• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field, plus relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Application Process

• Review of applications will continue until suitable candidates are identified.
• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
• Candidates should be prepared to provide the names, titles, and contact information (telephone, email, and mailing address) of three (3) professional references if requested.

Opening Details

These are part‑time, limited‑term appointments funded for two years from the date of hire, with an excellent possibility of re‑funding based on project progress and funding availability. The early start date is September 30, 2025. Each Research Assistant will work 4 hours per week at an hourly rate of $20, totaling $4,160 annually per assistant, plus fringe benefits. For Years 3 and 4, the total compensation for three assistants will be $25,728.

Background Checks and Clearances

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

EEO Statement

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms.