We are looking to hire a Research Specialist- Health Coach to work on a research project funded by the National Institute of Mental Health:
Bereaved persons are approximately three times more likely than non-bereaved persons to die by suicide. The loss of a spouse during late life is also associated with a felt sense of social disconnection, lack of engagement in pleasant activities, and disruptions in daily routines. The Rhythms after loss for Improving Suicidal Risk in Elders (RISE) Study examines the risk for and resilience to late-life suicide during the early spousal bereavement period and whether a digital health intervention that targets the timing and regularity of sleep, meals and physical/social activity can help reduce suicide risk. The Research Specialist – Health Coach would use motivational interviewing techniques during weekly therapy sessions (for 12 weeks) to facilitate participants health goals and help encourage a stable rhythm of sleep and activity. Please visit, gsuicide.pitt.edu/szanto_participate.html for more information.
Our lab offers a collaborative environment that fosters academic growth and mentorship; staff are encouraged to engage in independent research projects which may lead to related poster presentations at academic conferences and contributions to scientific publications. This position is suitable for those who are interested in pursuing academic and/or clinical advancement.
Applicants with a bachelor’s or master’s degree are encouraged to apply. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to apply for further graduate studies, such as a doctoral program in Psychology, Neuroscience, or medical studies. The ideal candidate has experience working with older adult’s populations and has experience with health coaching, motivational interviewing and/or clinical assessments. This candidate should have strong verbal and communication skills, written skills and experience working with geriatric populations.
This position is grant funded.
Responsibilities:
Obtain certification for motivational interviewing for behavior change.
Under direction of PI-s, conduct health coaching sessions as part of the intervention; connect with our participants for virtual visits to encourage health behavior goals as part of the Healthy Rhythms Program for (weekly calls for 12w per case).
Compile resources for our participants relevant to their goals and interests.
Independently execute job functions for research protocol(s) including scheduling appointments, conducting phone, virtual and face to face visits for research project(s) and documentation of visits.
Participate and attend weekly project specific meetings to review cases.
Collaborate with senior research personnel regarding training and fidelity of sessions according to the needs of the study.
Bachelor's degree (or higher), in psychology, neuroscience, sociology or related research field is required.
Minimum of one year of work experience in a research project and/or related clinical setting is required.
Familiarity with computers and common software packages required.
Working knowledge of research methodology is strongly preferred.
Minimum commitment of 2-3 years preferred.
Experience working or volunteering with older populations or individuals experiencing mental health problems preferred.
Experience with Redcap or other data management systems preferred.
Required Application Documents: (Please attach the following to the portal as part of the application.)
1. Cover Letter/Personal statement: Please address: What interests you about potentially becoming involved in our lab? What unique skills/experiences would you bring to our lab? What skills would you like to build while working here?
2. Updated CV or resume
3. Writing sample
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
- Act 34
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran