Research Assistant with Lived Experience of SCI

Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute (HHRI) in Minneapolis, MN invites applications for a part-time Research Assistant with knowledge of or experience living with a Spinal Cord Injury to join the Restorative Neurotrauma Lab.

The RA will split time between telework and onsite work on the HHRI campus, contributing to research operations and knowledge dissemination while leveraging firsthand SCI experience to inform the SCI community-focused research.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of or lived experience with spinal cord injury is required.
• No prior research experience is required; training will be provided.
• Ability to document and maintain detailed records; contribute to data collection and entry.

Responsibilities

• Apply lived SCI experience to inform study design and participant materials.
• Review consent forms and surveys for SCI-appropriate language.
• Provide input in lab discussions as a full collaborator.
• Support recruitment through SCI community networks.
• Assist with data collection, entry, and analysis as needed.

Skills

Lived SCI experience

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Data handling

Education

Any degree or experience accepted

Tools

Computer basics

Smartphone apps

Job description

The Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute (HHRI) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, invites applications for a part-time Research Assistant (RA) with knowledge of or experience living with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to join our Neurosurgery Restorative Neurotrauma Lab research team.

The RA will work 5-15 hours per week and split their time between telework and working onsite on the Hennepin Healthcare campus in downtown Minneapolis, MN.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Assistant will contribute to research operations, community engagement, and knowledge dissemination within the Restorative Neurotrauma Lab (RNL) at HHRI. The RA will apply their firsthand knowledge or experience of living with SCI to inform and strengthen research that affects the SCI community. The RA will document and consistently maintain detailed records and research data; and may assist with data collection, analysis, and entry into computer for further analysis. The RA will receive mentorship and professional development support consistent with other research team members.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Applies knowledge of lived experience of spinal cord injury to inform study design, recruitment strategies, outcome measures, and participant-facing materials
• Reviews and provides feedback on consent forms, surveys, and protocols to ensure language and procedures are appropriate for the SCI community
• Provides candid, direct input to the research team, including critical feedback, and participates in lab discussions as a full collaborator
• Supports participant recruitment through personal and professional networks within the SCI community
• Builds and maintains relationships with SCI-focused organizations such as U2FP, GUSU, and PVA, as well as other SCI research labs and institutions

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Contributes to the lab's social media presence, newsletter, and website content
• Assists with drafting and reviewing outward-facing materials for community audiences
• Assists with data collection, entry, management, and analysis; training provided
• Supports writing tasks including protocols, grant applications, manuscripts, and reports
• Supports lab management activities such as inventory tracking and supply coordination
• Communicates with vendors for shipping and receiving of lab equipment and devices
• May represent the lab at community events, support groups, and conferences; travel optional based on interest and availability

• Other duties as assigned

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Education/Experience:

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge is qualifying. Knowledge of or lived experience of spinal cord injury is the foundational qualification for this role. Prior research experience is not required; training will be provided.

Skill, Knowledge & Ability (SKA):

Requires subject matter expertise in life with spinal cord injury, including familiarity with the healthcare system, rehabilitation, and assistive technology. Ability to communicate effectively with staff, research participants, and other stakeholders including SCI community organizations. Skilled in problem solving and keeping detailed records and files. Skilled in basic computer and smartphone applications; assistive technology accommodated. Ability to adapt and be flexible, and to work with accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and within a team, be self-directed and motivated, and communicate effectively. Displays high standards of attendance, punctuality, maintains confidentiality, and effective time management.

HHRI is an Equal Opportunity Employer