Senior Qualitative Research Lead, Clinical Trials

ZS; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 163,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Total rewards package

Job summary

ZS is a management consulting and technology firm focused on improving life outcomes. We seek a senior qualitative researcher to design and lead qualitative research across clinical development, trials, and patient experiences.

You will synthesize insights into strategic recommendations and mentor teams in best practices. Join a collaborative culture with cross-functional client work, travel expectations, and a strong focus on patient-centered research and methodological leadership.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive qualitative research experience in healthcare.
• Strong understanding of the clinical development landscape and trial lifecycle.
• Experience conducting qualitative research with patients, caregivers, HCPs, investigators, and site personnel.
• Deep expertise in qualitative design, discussion guides, moderation, analysis, and insight generation.
• Hands-on moderation experience with in-depth interviews, focus groups, and other qualitative approaches.

Responsibilities

• Partner with cross-functional teams to design and deliver qualitative research addressing challenges across clinical development and patient experience.
• Lead qualitative research across the trial lifecycle, informing trial design, feasibility, recruitment, and retention.
• Develop tailored research frameworks, discussion guides, and interview protocols.
• Synthesize findings into actionable recommendations for clinical development strategies and patient-centered trial design.
• Provide methodological leadership and quality oversight in qualitative research design and analysis.
• Mentor others and contribute to methodological innovation in qualitative research.

Skills

Qualitative research

Clinical trials

Research synthesis

Client management

Communication/ storytelling

Education

Advanced degree preferred (public health/psychology/behavioral or life sciences)

Job description

ZS is a management consulting and technology firm focused on improving life outcomes. We seek a senior qualitative researcher to design and lead qualitative research across clinical development, trials, and patient experiences.

You will synthesize insights into strategic recommendations and mentor teams in best practices. Join a collaborative culture with cross-functional client work, travel expectations, and a strong focus on patient-centered research and methodological leadership.