Job Description
Job Description
Research Assistant 2
Located in Springfield, OR
This is a half-time position at ORI, but dependent on candidate skills, could be up to fulltime between ORI and ORI Community Evaluation Services (CES).
Position Summary
The Research Assistant 2 (RA2) will assist in the administration of structured clinical interviews and related research tasks for two longitudinal behavioral research studies, one assessing young adults and another assessing middle-aged women. The RA2 will conduct Structured Clinical Interviews for DSM-5 Research Version (SCID-5-RV) with study participants via secure videoconferencing or phone and may assist with additional data collection, documentation, and participant communication. This position requires strong interpersonal and organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while following established protocols.
Examples of Duties at ORI (halftime) :
- Conduct SCID-5-RV diagnostic interviews with research participants over Zoom or phone, following standardized administration and scoring procedures.
- Ensure participant safety and confidentiality, following study safety protocols for risk assessment and reporting (e.g., suicidal ideation, harm to others).
- Document interview data accurately in REDCap.
- Participate in interviewer reliability training and maintain certification through ongoing supervision and calibration meetings.
- Coordinate with project coordinators and schedulers to conduct participant assessments, manage reminders, and track completion.
- Attend project meetings and contribute to discussions of protocol improvements, decision rules, and data collection procedures.
- Communicate professionally with participants, research staff, and project leadership via email, phone, secure video, and in person.
- May assist in preparing project reports or dissemination materials as assigned.
Examples of Duties at CES (up to halftime) :
Coordinating (recruiting, consenting, assessments, research compliance).Multi-disciplinary direct care for early psychosis.Polk county screening pilot.Scheduling, outreach, referrals.Screening and diagnostic assessments.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :
Demonstrated ability to learn and follow structured interview and research protocols.Strong interpersonal communication and active listening skills, particularly when working with diverse participants.Spanish language fluency or bilingual communication skills are highly valued but not required.Ability to work independently during evening / weekend hours while maintaining responsiveness to project communication (evening / weekend availability required).Flexibility to adjust work hours around participant scheduling needs.
Experience with online data systems (e.g., REDCap) and videoconferencing platforms (e.g., Zoom).Demonstrated reliability and professionalism in handling sensitive information.Commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to confidentiality and data security standards.Experience and Training :
Bachelor's degree in psychology, social sciences, or a related field and 3-5 years of increasingly responsible research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Experience or coursework in clinical work, psychology, behavioral health, or related fields preferred.
Training and experience in structured clinical interviewing, mental health assessment, or behavioral research methods preferred.Experience working with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds is valued.Familiarity with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria preferred.Personal traits and characteristics :
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional during sensitive conversations.Reliable, extremely detail-oriented, and self-directed.Demonstrates good judgment, initiative, and discretion in handling confidential data.Values collaboration and open communication with the research team.Physical Requirements
Work is primarily conducted remotely or in an office setting, with occasional travel for training or meetings. Must be able to sit for extended periods, view a computer monitor, and participate in video calls.
Please note that employment with Oregon Research Institute is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.