SP - Research Assistant 1

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UConn Health is seeking a dedicated and motivated Graduate Research Assistant to serve as the Perinatal Mental Health Care Coordinator (PMHCC). This position plays a central role in supporting both clinical and research components of a collaborative initiative focused on implementing AIM-based perinatal mental health care, with an emphasis on addressing disparities in maternal mental health among all populations, particularly minority communities.

This role is ideal for graduate students with academic or career interests in perinatal health, maternal mental health, healthcare equity, or related fields.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the close supervision of an employee of higher grade; works more independently with acquired experience

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

May lead paraprofessional clerical or other lower ranking employees as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

Performs a limited range of related duties in conducting laboratory tests, provides support services for assigned research projects; may assist higher level research staff on assigned projects. Receives trainee assignments in designated research protocols, procedures, techniques and equipment; performs related duties as required.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (Dr. Dyanne Tappin), co-investigators and advisors, and in coordination with the Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative, the PMHCC will:

? Promote culturally competent, trauma-informed perinatal mental health care in accordance with AIM standards.

? Ensure continuity of care and timely follow-ups, serving as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers.

? Synthesize research findings/narratives/perspectives from 1-4 above into recommendations/interventions/future improvements.

? Contribute to presentations at conferences and assist in preparing manuscripts for publication.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

Basic knowledge of research protocols, principles and procedures; basic knowledge of scientific techniques such as tissue culturing, reagent/solution preparation, staining, etc.; basic knowledge of experimental design, mathematics, statistics, computer applications, laboratory equipment and procedures; basic knowledge of a science such as; chemistry, biology, microbiology, pharmacology; basic knowledge of physical and data resources in application scientific disciplines; oral and written communication skills; ability to identify, produce, organize, analyze, evaluate and interpret data.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

General Experience:

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong interest in perinatal mental health, maternal health disparities, and patient advocacy.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary clinical and research environments.

• Prior experience in healthcare, mental health, and research is preferred.

This is a paid Graduate Research Assistant position (20 hours per week (Y1), 8-10 hours per week (Y2). Compensation is in accordance with UConn Health Graduate RA salary guidelines.

Supported by the Level 3 JEDI Grant through the Office of Vice President of Research (OVPR)

Working Conditions:

Incumbents in this class may be occasionally required to lift heavy objects such as standard laboratory equipment and/or trays/boxes or glassware; may be exposed to such hazards as broken glass, toxic vapors radioactive materials, and toxic or disease carrying substances.

SCHEDULE: 20 hours per week (Y1), 8-10 hours per week (Y2), including a hybrid schedule.

Why UConn Health

UConn Health is a vibrant, integrated academic medical center that is entering an era of unprecedented growth in all three areas of its mission: academics, research, and clinical care. A commitment to human health and well-being has been of utmost importance to UConn Health since the founding of the University of Connecticut schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine in 1961. Based on a strong foundation of groundbreaking research, first-rate education, and quality clinical care, we have expanded our medical missions over the decades. In just over 50 years, UConn Health has evolved to encompass more research endeavors, to provide more ways to access our superior care, and to innovate both practical medicine and our methods of educating the practitioners of tomorrow.