Research Specialist

The Cognitive-Communication in Aging and Neurogenic Disorders Lab (CCANDL) is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our rapidly growing team as a Research Specialist to further our Alzheimer's disease and related dementias research. Our lab highly values team science, a positive work environment, and diversity of backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, approaches, and competencies of coworkers and the populations we serve. Dr. Kimberly Mueller is the lab principal investigator, an associate professor with the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), and an investigator with the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention and Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. Her lab focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms and behavioral aspects of speech and language changes across the spectrum of normal aging, preclinical Alzheimer's disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia, and other forms of dementia. Dr. Mueller's lab is also interested in the design and testing of identification methods of early cognitive change in the presence of AD biomarkers, and multimodal therapeutic interventions to address cognitive-communication difficulties in MCI and dementia due to neurodegenerative disease.

The Research Specialist will work directly with the CCANDL Program Manager and and Dr. Mueller and will be responsible for coordinating several studies that include the assessment of speech, language, hearing, and cognitive function. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, participant recruitment, consenting, data collection and analysis, data coding, generating data related reports, regulatory duties and quality assurance for current studies, literature reviews, and the management of student workers. Some study procedures with participants will be completed virtually and will involve teaching individuals how to use technology, such as mobile tablets and/or smartphones. Depending on experience, the position may also entail designing and executing new research projects, and contribution to scholarly publications and presentations. Future travel for data collection may be required. The incumbent will regularly work with colleagues from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH), other UW schools, colleges, divisions, and centers, and outside institutions/organizations/corporations. Applicant's experience and materials should demonstrate interest in human biological research, combined with exemplary organization, attention to detail, ability to lead and work cooperatively in a team environment, take initiative, and problem solve. Professional development and training provided.

• 30% Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• 5% Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• 20% Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
• 20% Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• 20% Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• 5% Performs literature reviews and writes reports

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion

Required
Bachelor's Degree
Preferred focus in Communication Sciences and Disorders, biological and/or social sciences, or other health-related field.

Required Qualifications:
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Computer proficiency and experience using Microsoft Office software.
- Proficiency with mobile technology including smartphones and tablets, and with video-conferencing software (e.g. Zoom, Webex).
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, diplomatically, and in a culturally responsive way, in both written and verbal forms, with research participants, sponsors, faculty, researchers, staff, and students.

Preferred Qualifications:
- At least 1 year of behavioral research experience in an academic setting.
- Knowledge of human subjects and research principles.
- Experience working in a team environment.

Ideal candidates will be self-motivated, adaptable, and possess excellent problem-solving skills. The ability to work independently to complete tasks is also important for success in this role.

Full or Part Time: 90% - 100%

This position may require some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non-campus work location.

Ongoing/Renewable

Minimum $50,000 ANNUAL (12 months)
Depending on Qualifications
The minimum starting salary for the position is $50,000, but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications. Employees in the position can expect to receive benefits such as a generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits.

Please click on the "Apply Now" button to start the application process.

Applications must be submitted by 11:55 pm on the deadline date. To apply, please upload a cover letter and resume. Your cover letter and resume should address how your skills, knowledge, and abilities are transferrable to this role. Additional materials submitted other than your cover letter and resume will not be considered.

Selected applicants will receive an invitation to participate in virtual interviews 7-10 business days following the application deadline. Those moving on to second round interviews will be invited to an in-person interview at UW-Madison. Once final applicants are identified, they will be asked to provide names and contact information for at least three professional references, including a current/most recent supervisor.

For questions on the position, contact: Leah Sanson-Miles, Research Program Manager, lsanson@wisc.edu or 608-262-7467.

Leah Sanson-Miles
lsanson@wisc.edu
608-262-7467
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Research Specialist(RE047)

A48-COL OF LETTERS & SCIENCE/COMMUN SCI & DISORDERS

Academic Staff-Renewable

312774-AS