Junior Specialist- Ghetti Lab

Dr. Simona Ghetti in the Psychology Department and Center for Mind and Brain at the University of California, Davis in correlation with Dr. Nicole Glaser in the Department of pediatrics, seeks to fill a Junior Specialist position to support a study focused on Evaluating Neurocognitive Complications of Type 1 Diabetes and Potential Risk and Protective Factors (BRAINY-T1D), beginning June, 1 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position will be at 50% effort. The appointment will be for 1 year, with the possibility of extension for an additional year based on performance and funding availability.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Junior Specialist will contribute to a multi-site, longitudinal research study examining neurocognitive and brain development in pediatric populations, including participants with type 1 diabetes. Consistent with the expectations of the Junior Specialist series, the incumbent will be actively and significantly engaged in research activities and support study implementation. The successful candidate will gain exposure to all aspects of the research process and will have the opportunity to acquire several important research and intellectual skills, including data collection, interpretation, and dissemination.

The primary responsibilities of this position will focus on participant recruitment, administration of neurocognitive assessments, and assistance in neuroimaging scanning sessions. The position involves direct interaction with children and families.

• Assist in screening research participants for eligibility requirements based on clinical history; explain study procedures and assess interest.
• Assist in recruiting study participants.
• Communicate with clinical providers involved in the care of study participants.
• Conduct neurocognitive testing sessions with study participants (children and adults) following standardized protocols after training.
  
  
• Assist in conducting neuroimaging scanning sessions.
• Record, organize and ensure quality control of testing and imaging data at the time of collection.
• Maintain clear and organized tracking of testing activities.
• Contribute to data processing, preliminary analyses, and interpretation of findings in collaboration with the research team.
• Participate in literature reviews to support study aims and interpretation of results.
• Contribute to preparation of abstracts, presentations, and manuscripts for dissemination of study findings, including potential co-authorship.

• Participate in biweekly meetings with the UC Davis and University of Minnesota study teams.
• Engage in training activities related to neurocognitive assessment, human subjects research, and study protocols.
• Engage in community outreach efforts to support participant recruitment, including outreach to Spanish-speaking families.

• Contribute to the development of study outreach materials (e.g., flyers, emails, recruitment content).
• Participate in community outreach efforts to disseminate study findings.
• Provide support and mentorship, as appropriate, to undergraduate students assisting with research activities.

• Bachelor's degree in human biology, psychology, neuroscience or related fields.
• Ability to communicate in Spanish.
• Experience working both independently and a team member in a diverse environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for interaction with participants, families, clinical staff, and research personnel.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, and attention to detail to ensure that large volumes of records and data can be accurately maintained.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, prioritize work as necessary, and effectively communicate status of work.
• Working knowledge of the following (but not limited to): medical record systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and associated software.
• Strong writing skills for documentation of research procedures, data, and correspondence.

• Previous experience in human subjects research, particularly with pediatric populations.
• Familiarity with neurocognitive testing or clinical research settings.
• Knowledge of basic anatomy, medical terminology, and ability to interpret physicians' notes and medical records.
• Previous experience working in a Pediatric Clinic setting.
• Understanding of or personal experience with type 1 diabetes.

• 2-3 required (contact information only)

Please provide 2-3 references

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

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