Position Overview
The Research Assistant (RA) will support a multi-phase research study focused on developing and evaluating a virtual reality (VR) physical activity program for adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The RA will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) and research team to assist with recruitment, data collection, participant coordination, and study operations across lab, community, and home-based settings.
This position is ideal for undergraduate students interested in health research, community-engaged research, disability studies, or clinical research coordination.
Key Responsibilities
The RA will function as an active member of the research team and responsibilities may include assisting with the following:
Participant Recruitment & Coordination
- Assist with recruitment efforts, including distributing study materials and responding to participant inquiries
- Monitor study email and support communication with participants and families
- Assist with scheduling participant visits (lab sessions, virtual meetings, or home visits)
- Support participant tracking and organization of study records
Study Implementation & Data Collection
- Assist with facilitating lab-based VR sessions with participants
- Support virtual Advisory Board meetings and community engagement activities
- Assist with data collection, including surveys, observational notes, and session documentation
- Help maintain accurate and organized study records
Study Operations & Project Support
- Support day-to-day study operations, including preparation of materials and session setup
- Assist with maintaining regulatory compliance (e.g., IRB documentation, training requirements)
- Help track participant progress, incentives, and study milestones
- Contribute to organization of study documents and team resources
Research & Scholarly Activities (Optional/As Available)
- Assist with literature searches and background research
- Support development of conference abstracts, presentations, or manuscripts
- Contribute to study reports and dissemination activities
Additional Responsibilities
- Participate in team meetings and training sessions
- Maintain professionalism and confidentiality when working with participants and data
- Support onboarding and collaboration with other student team members as needed
Position Details
Work Environment:
Hybrid (remote + in-person at MSU College of Nursing, community sites, and/or participant homes)
Hours:
10 hours per week (flexible based on schedule)
Some evenings or weekends may be required based on participant availability
Duration:
Temporary (anticipated through project duration)
Requirements
- Completion of required training (Human Subjects/IRB, HIPAA, etc.)
- Availability to support study scheduling needs
- Willingness to engage in community-based and participant-facing research activities
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Interest in healthcare, research, or working with individuals with disabilities
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility and willingness to learn new skills
Preferred (but not required):
- Experience working with children, adolescents, or individuals with disabilities
- Interest in virtual reality, health technology, or behavioral interventions
Compensation
- $12-$15/hr
Application Materials
- Resume
- Brief statement of interest (optional but recommended)
- Weekly availability
