Research Scientist

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Paid leave

Health & retirement plans

Exclusive local discounts

Job summary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a Research Scientist to support two autism-focused projects (EXPRESS and AFIRM-AI). The role involves systematic reviews, data extraction, interpretation of findings, and creating dissemination tools for educators and stakeholders.

The position may offer hybrid work options, with requirements to contribute to literature reviews, meta-analyses, and evidence translation across school settings.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of research methods and experience contributing to research projects.
• Ability to apply research concepts to synthesis and communication of findings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently on assigned research tasks and collaborate with others.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and research-related software (e.g., REDCap).

Responsibilities

• (No explicit duties listed in the job ad; please refer to project descriptions for scope and dissemination responsibilities.)

Skills

Literature review

Data management

Data analysis

Communication skills

Independence

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree

Tools

REDCap

Job description

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package , paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute ( FPG ) is one of the nation’s oldest and largest multidisciplinary centers devoted to the study of children and their families. As one of the nation’s leading child development research centers, we generate scientific evidence, inform policies, and support practices to promote positive developmental and educational outcomes for children of all backgrounds and abilities from infancy to adolescence. FPG has a particular focus on the study of vulnerable populations and those who have special needs. In addition, FPG is committed to creating a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and has the resources they need to grow and thrive regardless of identity, origin, or difference in circumstances as well as engaging in work that addresses critical issues related to educational inequality and barriers to inclusion that impact children’s wellbeing. Approximately 280 researchers, implementation and technical assistance specialists, staff, and students work on more than 75 projects related to developmental disabilities; physical, social, and emotional health; early care and education; early intervention and special education, prevention science, and more to address important issues facing all children and families. Our work spans across disciplines from education and psychology to social work and public health. We collaborate with researchers across campus and throughout the nation. At FPG , transdisciplinary collaboration is a way to leverage collective expertise for comprehensive and relevant research and outreach, and is embodied in our motto: Advancing knowledge to transform children’s lives.

Position Summary

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station. This position serves as a research scientist on two autism-focused projects involving research synthesis, evidence translation, and dissemination to support practice and decision-making. The first project, Project EXPRESS , involves dissemination of findings from a school-based intervention study comparing two interventions for autistic middle school students, including interventions focused on executive functioning and peer relationships and friendships. The second project, AFIRM -AI, focuses on identifying, evaluating, and disseminating evidence-based practices for autistic children and youth from birth to age 22. The position contributes to systematic review and meta-analysis activities and applies research expertise to study screening, quality appraisal, data extraction, interpretation of findings, and development of dissemination tools and products for educators and other stakeholders.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Master’s or Bachelor’s and 0-2 years’ experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Demonstrated knowledge of research methods and experience contributing to research projects involving literature review, data collection, data management, analysis, interpretation, or dissemination.
• Ability to apply research concepts to the synthesis and communication of findings.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently on assigned research tasks, and contribute effectively to collaborative research efforts.
• Proficiency with standard computer applications and research-related software or platforms (e.g., REDCap).

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Experience disseminating research findings or evidence-based practices to researchers, practitioners, or community stakeholders through manuscripts, presentations, reports, briefs, web resources, or other dissemination products.
• Experience with implementation research, procedural evaluation studies, or school-based intervention research.
• Experience with interventions for autistic individuals, especially children and youth.
• Knowledge of systematic review methods, including study screening, quality appraisal, and data extraction for single-case experimental design and group design studies.
• Experience developing tools, resources, or products for educators or other end users.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

n/a

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• Please select the response below that describes your level of education that best or mostly closely satisfies the education requirements for this position.
  • Bachelor’s degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
  • Bachelor's degree in any field/discipline
  • Master's degree or Doctorate degree in required discipline(s) listed or related field
  • Master's degree or Doctorate degree in any field/discipline
  • None of the above
• Briefly describe your experience using Microsoft Office Suite and statistical software (SPSS, REDCap, etc.) to analyze or present data.

  (Open Ended Question)

• What experience do you have in data collection, management, and analysis?

  (Open Ended Question)

• Do you have experience working with children with autism or developmental delays?
  • Yes
  • No
• Please briefly describe your relevant evaluation and research translation/dissemination experience.

  (Open Ended Question)

• Do you possess a valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation?
  • Yes
  • No