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• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Rovniak Lab at the Penn State College of Medicine within the Department of Medicine, in Hershey, PA, is seeking several part-time research assistants for a large randomized controlled trial with over 1,400 participants to help engage older adults with osteoarthritis in no-cost exercise opportunities available nationwide. Our project aims to connect older adults across the United States with supportive and convenient exercise opportunities that can help them improve their physical and mental wellness. This work is being done with funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). This job may be performed locally or remotely.

Responsibilities include: 1) screening Spanish- and English-speaking older adults by phone to ensure they meet study eligibility criteria; 2) explaining study procedures via videoconferencing or by phone to both Spanish- and English-speaking participants; 3) following a scripted intervention protocol with both Spanish- and English-speaking participants; 4) attending study team meetings to ensure ongoing quality control; 5) maintaining records of screening/phone activities; 6) sending emails to Spanish- and English-speaking participants for various project-related administrative matters; 7) assisting with quality control of online Spanish and English measures; and 8) assisting with other project-related support activities.

The ideal candidate will have an interest in physical activity or health promotion research and some prior research or relevant related experience. In addition, the ideal candidate will also have the following traits: detail-oriented and precise; excellent interpersonal and communication skills; strong organizational skills; and strong writing skills.

The following clearances must be successfully completed for this position:  

• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check  
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal Background Check   

 
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to he