Research Scientist 1
Summary
Under direct supervision, the Research Scientist 1 will work on research projects with the Brick Lab at the Center on Alcohol, Substance Use, and Addiction (CASAA) focused on cannabis and other substance use following stress and trauma exposure. Dr. Brick’s lab is committed to a culture of collaboration and respect across diverse training and individual backgrounds.Duties and Responsibilities
• Project management in coordination with the PI, such as: monitoring study progress and participant retention; data management; oversight of tasks relating to laboratory maintenance, purchasing, and inventory; implementation and enforcement of study and data milestones
• Preparation and maintenance of study record (such as standard operating procedures)
• Assistance with participant recruitment, screening, and consent
• Completion of baseline and follow-up laboratory procedures (including psychophysiology, biospecimen collection, and phlebotomy procedures)
• Train participants on the use of the study devices (including smart phones, smartwatches, and other ambulatory devices) and troubleshooting of the study devices and equipment as needed
• Occasionally driving to participant homes/public spaces to drop off or pick up research devices or provide participant payment
• Conduct closely supervised clinical interviews and other psychological assessments of participants
• Proficiency in REDCap and data entry
• Assist with preliminary statistical analyses of data using R or other tools to support manuscripts, grant submissions, and/or presentations
• Work closely with the PI with regards to preparation of Institutional Review Board (IRB) documentation and other administrative tasks.
See the Position Description for additional information.
- Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check. Additional health screenings may be required, dependent on the nature of the research conducted, as determined by Employee Occupational Health Services.
- Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Bachelor's degree; no previous experience required.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, Pre-Med, or related field (Preferred)
1-2 years of research experience conducting interviews, data collection, or data management. Or, equivalent combination of education and experience (Preferred)
Experience with psychophysiological laboratory equipment and/or ecological momentary assessment; experience with IRB; experience with clinical interviews.
Prior phlebotomy training/certification or willingness to become certified.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Must possess strong organizational and research skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
- Ability to function as a research team member with a diverse team and possess effective problem-solving skills.
- Strong ability to multi-task and prioritize work flow; consistently produces high quality work products.
- Excellent organizational and record keeping skills.
- Must demonstrate strong leadership skills and comfort with independent work.
- Possesses a willingness and ability to support a diverse and inclusive campus community.
- Willingness to develop skills with technology and capacity for resourcefulness in troubleshooting technological devices and laboratory equipment.
- Must be available for evening and weekend research sessions.
- Must provide own transportation between patient’s home and research sites.
Positions posted with a Staff Type ofRegularorTermare eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See theVeteran Preference Program webpagefor additional details.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html . Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.
Freqently Asked Questions
Albuquerque’s unique demographic and cultural factors create distinct challenges in studying substance use and addiction. As a Research Scientist 1 at The University Of New Mexico, you’ll navigate local participant recruitment nuances and environmental stressors that shape cannabis and trauma-related research outcomes.
A Research Scientist 1 typically combines a bachelor’s degree in psychology or neuroscience with practical skills in clinical interviews, phlebotomy, and data management. Unlike senior roles, this position focuses on hands-on participant interaction and foundational data collection under direct supervision.
Starting as a Research Scientist 1 offers exposure to advanced psychophysiological techniques and IRB processes. Over time, mastering data analysis tools like R and gaining leadership in project coordination can pave the way toward senior research or academic scientist positions.
At The University Of New Mexico, collaboration across diverse teams and a commitment to inclusivity greatly influence daily responsibilities. Researchers often balance laboratory precision with community-focused participant engagement, enriching scientific inquiry within a supportive academic culture.
Supervised research at this institution demands meticulous adherence to study protocols and IRB guidelines. The role involves managing multiple tasks like device troubleshooting and participant visits, requiring adaptability and strong organizational skills within a regulated academic framework.
Candidates must comply with influenza vaccination mandates and may undergo post-offer physical exams. Phlebotomy certification is preferred or candidates should be willing to achieve it, aligning with health standards critical for participant safety and research integrity.
Albuquerque’s research sector is moderately competitive, with growing interest in substance use studies. Candidates with a blend of clinical skills and data competence, especially in psychophysiology and ecological momentary assessment, tend to stand out in local job markets.
Salaries for Research Scientist 1 in Albuquerque generally range from $48,000 to $60,000 annually, reflecting the city’s cost of living and academic funding. This range is somewhat lower than national averages but balanced by unique research opportunities at institutions like The University Of New Mexico.
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