Research Assistant I

MSU - Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University is seeking a Research Assistant I to lead and coordinate day-to-day recruitment operations supporting study enrollment goals. You will conduct eligibility screenings, communicate with prospective participants, and coordinate outreach initiatives, social media advertising, and large-scale mailings.

You will document recruitment progress and assist with IRB revisions. You will work closely with PIs, research staff, and the data manager to implement recruitment strategies

Qualifications

• Requires a four-year degree in Psychology or related science field.
• 1–3 years of related laboratory/research experience with standard lab procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate day-to-day recruitment operations for study enrollment goals.
• Conduct eligibility screenings and communicate with prospective participants.
• Coordinate outreach initiatives, social media advertising, and large-scale mailings.
• Track and document recruitment activities and progress; assist with IRB revisions.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field

Tools

Qualtrics

Excel

SPSS

Job description

Position Summary

The Research Assistant I will lead and coordinate day-today recruitment operations and major recruitment initiatives to support study enrollment goals andestablished recruitment milestones. Responsibilities include conducting eligibility screenings;communicating and following up with prospective participants; coordinating outreach initiatives, socialmedia advertising, and large-scale recruitment mailings; and tracking and documenting recruitmentactivities and progress. The Research Assistant I will also assist with recruitment-related IRB revisions,lead recruitment meetings, and work closely with the PIs, research staff, and data manager to implementand adapt recruitment strategies and maintain recruitment data. The position will serve as a primaryresource for internal and external individuals regarding study recruitment and related activities.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Psychology or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in Psychology/medical research or related field; familiarity with software specific to the areas of research including Qualtrics, Excel, and SPSS; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

At least three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in Psychology/medical research or related field.Experience conducting participant recruitment and eligibility screenings/interviews about mental and physical health in a research setting; experience leading major recruitment initiatives, including population-based mailings and social media advertising; experience with NIMH recruitment milestone and progress reports; has Michigan TLLP or LLP licensure, or relevant clinical training and experience conducting structured clinical health interviews; excellent interpersonal skills and strong verbal and written communication skills; strong organizational, writing, and proofreading skills; excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills; strong computer skills; and demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a research team.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Cover letter indicating why the candidate is interested in the position

Resume or CV

List of three references with contact information

Work Hours

Variable hours, including nights and weekends, based on recruitment needs and participant availability.

Description of End Date

This is an off-date position funded for nine (9) months from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends November 3, 2026, 11:55 PM