Research Volunteer Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

The College of Pharmacy (https://pharmacy.unm.edu) is seeking a resourceful, dynamic, and experienced individual to join its team. Since 1945, the College of Pharmacy has been educating students as the only College of Pharmacy in the state of New Mexico. The College is a supportive environment that leads to lifelong connections and success through a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, cutting-edge curriculum, and personalized mentorship. We are 3rd in the U.S. in NIH funding, empowering groundbreaking research in environmental toxicology (human exposure to heavy metals and microplastics) and Substance Use Disorder, producing innovators who drive change in healthcare research. The College of Pharmacy has graduated over 3,400 students and 81% of New Mexico's pharmacist workforce are UNM College of Pharmacy alumni.

Nestled in the heart of UNM's Health Sciences Campus, it is active in advancing pharmacy practice and clinical care at the state and national level. In joining the College of Pharmacy, you will be helping to achieve its mission to develop pharmacists, educators and scientists in an inclusive environment whose leadership, dedication and innovation improves the health of our communities. Your impact can be felt for generations in improving health outcomes for New Mexico's diverse population.

The HS Research Splst will conduct sample organizing, tracking, and laboratory examinations. Help maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment and recording of results and creating databases. Regularly assist with RedCap data enrollment reviews and planning shipping and laboratory work ahead of time under Dr. Esther Erdei's supervision. Carryout weekly quality control processes and assists with team and lab meetings and discussions. Participate in journal club -style presentations to develop science communication skills and presentations for conferences. This position plays a critical role in supporting advanced, interdisciplinary research in health sciences. This position independently manages the daily operations of complex laboratory, clinical, or field-based research projects. Responsibilities include developing and executing protocols, conducting data analysis, adapting equipment and procedures to meet specific research needs, and contributing to the interpretation and reporting of research findings. The role also includes mentoring and providing technical guidance to junior staff, interns, and visiting researchers.

This is a 0.75 FTE position with a Term appointment that will not exceed 2-years/24-months maximum.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Conducts advanced data collection, processing, and analysis using specialized statistical and scientific software within a designated health sciences research area.
2. Assists in tracking biospecimens, monitors and maintains proper storage of samples, assist with laboratory experimental design and development of research protocols and procedures.
3. Ensures research protocols are followed accurately, including monitoring data quality and compliance standards.
4. Provides initial interpretation of data and offers informed suggestions for improving research methods, data accuracy, and outcomes.
5. Customizes or adapts laboratory equipment and technical approaches based on unique project requirements.
6. May lead and train junior staff, student employees, interns, and volunteers in lab procedures and safety protocols.
7. Supports recruitment and research participants or volunteers, if applicable.
8. Ensures strict adherence to all safety, environmental, and infection control standards.
9. Performs related duties as needed to support ongoing research initiatives.

Required Competencies

1. Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
2. Attention to detail and ability to follow instructions and adhere to research protocols and procedures.
3. Strong knowledge of experimental methods, research protocol design, and advanced data analysis techniques.
4. Proficiency in using scientific computing tools and statistical software for data processing and interpretation.
5. Ability to analyze complex research methodologies and recommend enhancements or adaptations.
6. Skilled in modifying standard procedures or equipment to suit project-specific requirements.
7. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively on multidisciplinary research teams.
8. Effective at mentoring and guiding students and less experienced research staff.