Research Coordinator

Job Summary:

The Providence Center Research Coordinator (RC) supports an NIH-funded randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating tobacco harm reduction strategies for individuals with mental illness (MI). This study, SWITCH IT, explores whether behavioral support combined with electronic cigarette (e-cig) provision enhances smoking harm reduction compared to e-cig provision alone.

The research aims to support smokers with MI who struggle to quit by encouraging e-cig switching and measuring health outcomes. The RC plays a crucial role in participant recruitment, retention, data collection, and study coordination, while ensuring adherence to ethical and regulatory standards. This position provides an excellent opportunity for highly motivated and detail-oriented individuals interested in public health, psychology, addiction research, and behavioral interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Coordinate all aspects of the SWITCH IT RCT in collaboration with the Principal Investigator and research team.

Recruit, screen, consent, and enroll participants in accordance with study protocols and IRB requirements.

Conduct structured interviews, administer assessments, and oversee survey/data collection using digital and paper-based tools.

Assist in biological sample collection (urine NNAL analysis) for objective harm reduction measurement.

Maintain participant tracking, scheduling, and retention efforts to minimize attrition.

Ensure intervention fidelity by monitoring delivery of SWITCH IT sessions and supporting training of intervention staff.

Manage and safeguard research data, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and timely entry into study databases.

Liaise with clinical providers, peer support specialists, and community stakeholders to ensure smooth study operations in community mental health settings.

Monitor regulatory compliance (IRB reporting, adverse events, participant safety).

Assist in the preparation of study reports, progress updates, and the dissemination of findings.

Requirements:

Bachelor's Degree Required; Master's Degree Preferred

Field of Study: health sciences, public health, psychology, social work, or related discipline

Minimum 1 to 3 Years of experience in research coordination, clinical trials, or related research work. Experience working in a community mental health, behavioral health, or social services setting preferred.

Strong knowledge of research ethics, informed consent, and regulatory requirements.

Familiarity with IRB processes, HIPAA regulations, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

Cultural competence and demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Knowledge of behavioral health interventions, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, or smoking cessation interventions preferred.