The Research Specialist applies their substantive, methodological, and administrative skills to coordinate all aspects of the project from development through delivery, under the regular direction of the PI who has ultimate decision-making authority and responsibility for the project. The Research Specialist oversees complex study and data collection methods.  A primary responsibility is coordinating and directing the work and research tasks of the broader research team, including administrative staff, survey supervisors, and student research assistants.

• Maintain a working knowledge and awareness of all project components.
• Initiate and execute research and data collection procedures.
• Analyze and interpret data and results.
• Develop and write advanced study protocols and progress reports.
• Ensure compliance with protocols and with relevant local, federal, and state regulatory and institutional policies.
• Provide oversight to ensure study documentation is complete and up-to-date.

• Monitor progress toward project research goals.
• Regularly communicate areas of concern and needed adjustments to the PI.
• Develop and implement training for project staff, including initial onboarding and continuous training (e.g., on protocol revisions).
• Participate in regular budget meetings, and recommend and implement adjustments to spending as needed.

• Act as supervisor in directing and coordinating the work of the research team, including administrative staff and survey supervisors who directly report to the Research Coordinator and student research assistants who are under the direct supervision of survey supervisors.
• Guide, train and advise these staff and students on techniques, methods, and procedures.
• Plan, assign, and review work of staff to ensure group objectives are met.
• Hire, train, develop and manage staff to ensure that a qualified staff exists to meet group objectives.
• Hold regular all-staff meetings and sub-team meetings on project related topics.

• Attends NIU training to stay current with job requirements.
• Other related responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Required Qualifications (SPS)

• Bachelor’s degree in survey research methods, the health or human sciences, or related field preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years research experience.