Research Assistant

Job Description

This position is well suited for recent university graduates seeking structured, full-time research experience prior to pursuing advanced training (e.g., MD, PhD, MPH, or related programs). The role is entry-level in scope and provides close mentorship and supervision while offering a steep learning curve. The anticipated term for this position is two years. Responsibilities include supporting research projects by extracting, organizing, and interpreting data from various sources for problems of limited scope; working under supervision and in collaboration with data analysts and other collaborators on research design and presentations; performing literature searches (e.g., advanced PubMed) and synthesizing results concisely; assisting with interpretation and exploration of data; managing multiple research projects simultaneously; drafting, proofreading, and submitting manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals; and writing and managing human subjects (Institutional Review Board) approvals within and outside of UCSF. The candidate will learn to use professional concepts to conduct and / or support analytical studies or projects and acquire skills to analyze issues and problems, gather data and information, find and evaluate alternatives and make sound recommendations.

Candidates should have a long-term interest in the field of health services research, health economics, public health, and/or public policy. This role requires the ability to be intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and able to learn quickly, manage multiple tasks, and communicate clearly in writing. Successful candidates typically demonstrate exceptional academic performance and intellectual independence, such as prior experience conducting original research projects, completing an honors thesis or senior capstone, or serving as a lead research assistant on a complex analytical project. The candidate must be self-directed and detail-oriented, with preference for those with and a strong communicator in written and spoken English.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to include a brief cover letter describing their research interests, prior analytical or research experience, and long-term academic goals.

Qualifications

Skills to learn organization-specific and other computer application programs. Req Basic communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Req Ability to use discretion and maintain all confidentiality. Req Ability to use sound judgment in responding to issues and concerns. Req Basic skills to analyze and research information and learn to synthesize large amounts of data with exquisite attention to detail. Req Basic program and project management skills. Req Ability to meet precise deadlines and be part of a fast-paced problem-solving team that works with minimum supervision and is extremely motivated Req Technical proficiency in standard Microsoft Office Software and ability to learn data hosting service platform Req High integrity and strong work ethic Req Analytical abilities and familiarity with statistical software packages (e.g., R, STATA, or SAS, etc.) Pref Bachelor's degree with a major in a related field, broadly defined (e.g., liberal arts, economics, public policy, and/or pre-medical background) and / or equivalent experience / training. Req