Research Associate - Project Evaluator - Psychiatry - UI ARC

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Research Associate - Project Evaluator - Psychiatry - UI ARC

Company: University of Iowa

Location: Iowa City, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Temporary

Category: Research Operations / Data Analysis

Date Posted: February 16, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for supporting funded research projects within the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative (UI ARC) team, focusing on substance use and addiction.

• The position requires the development and implementation of comprehensive project evaluation plans to ensure alignment with research and service grant objectives.

• Key responsibilities include rigorous data collection, quantitative data analysis, and the synthesis of findings for reporting to various stakeholders and funding sources.

• This role demands strong project management skills to oversee program operations and ensure successful execution of research protocols and evaluation metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Research Associate" title and focus on "Project Evaluation" within a specific collaborative (UI ARC), this role is best categorized under Research Operations with a strong emphasis on Data Analysis and Program Evaluation. The specified term nature of the position suggests it's project-based, common in academic research environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive evaluation plans for grant-funded substance use and addiction research projects, ensuring alignment with research and service objectives.

• Collect, synthesize, and organize data from various reports and sources, performing quantitative and qualitative analysis to support project evaluation.

• Conduct data audits and generate queries, reports, and exports as needed for project analysis and reporting.

• Provide statistical support, interpret findings, and format data for inclusion in weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports for funding agencies and internal stakeholders.

• Manage project activities to ensure program operations, activities, and services meet grant goals and objectives, including adherence to deadlines and reporting schedules.

• Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team, communicating effectively to share updates and ensure seamless project execution.

• Maintain strict adherence to data protection protocols, including the privacy of health care information and other confidential data.

• Assist in the preparation of materials for reporting to funding sources and ensure timely submission of all required project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description highlights a blend of project management, data analysis, and reporting. The emphasis on "grant-funded programs," "evaluation plans," and "reporting to funding sources" indicates a strong need for methodical process execution and data integrity, typical of research operations roles in academic settings.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree in epidemiology, public health, health sciences, data science, or a related field is desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of one year of experience in data collection, data management, database utilization, data analysis (e.g., frequency tables, correlations, group comparisons), and report writing.

• Experience with project development and project management, specifically including evaluation plans or designs.

• Demonstrated ability to work with a broad range of stakeholders and encourage meaningful participation in a team setting.

• Experience in technical or scientific writing.

• Desirable: Two years of experience conducting data analyses using appropriate analytic tools.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in data collection and data management techniques.

• Strong quantitative data analysis skills, including statistical interpretation.

• Expertise in report writing and data formatting for various reporting requirements.

• Solid understanding of program evaluation frameworks and methodologies within research or clinical settings.

• Effective project management skills for grant-funded initiatives.

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills for stakeholder engagement.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment, managing multiple projects under deadline pressure.

• Proficiency in data auditing and query generation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with behavioral health systems, infectious disease, medical education, or healthcare systems.

• Familiarity with implementing and evaluating evidence-based practices related to substance use disorders, infectious disease, or behavioral health.

• Knowledge of and experience with designing, building, and implementing REDCap projects.

• Experience with Qualtrics surveys.

• Experience with grant reporting platforms (e.g., SPARS, Iowagrants).

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific tools like REDCap and Qualtrics, coupled with the academic research context, suggests that candidates with experience in these environments will have a distinct advantage. The "0-2 years" experience level is reflected in the required Bachelor's and one year of experience, with a Master's and two years being desirable.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in developing and executing comprehensive project evaluation plans for research initiatives, showcasing a clear understanding of research methodologies and outcome measurement.

• Provide examples of data analysis projects, highlighting your ability to extract insights from complex datasets using quantitative methods and statistical support.

• Showcase your report writing capabilities through samples that clearly communicate findings, methodologies, and recommendations to diverse audiences, including funding bodies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization for data collection and analysis processes within research projects.

• Implementation and automation methods for data entry, management, and reporting, including experience with databases like REDCap.

• Measurement and performance analysis of project outcomes against defined grant goals and evaluation metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should emphasize practical application of data analysis and evaluation skills within a research context. Candidates should highlight projects where they managed data integrity, contributed to grant reporting, and supported program evaluation efforts.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a specified term position within a university setting, salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Based on similar Research Associate roles in Iowa City, an estimated range for a candidate with a Bachelor's degree and 1-2 years of experience would be approximately $45,000 - $60,000 annually. For candidates with a Master's degree and relevant experience, this could extend to $55,000 - $70,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan options (e.g., IPERS for state employees).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Access to university resources and facilities.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. While the core hours are generally standard business hours, some flexibility may be available depending on project deadlines and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on typical university research associate compensation in the Midwest US, considering the experience level and the cost of living in Iowa City. Benefits are standard for University of Iowa employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare & Higher Education (Psychiatry Research)

Company Size: The University of Iowa is a large public research university with tens of thousands of employees. The Department of Psychiatry and the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative (UI ARC) are specific units within this larger organization.

Founded: The University of Iowa was founded in 1847.

Team Structure:

• The Research Associate will be part of the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative (UI ARC) team, working within the Department of Psychiatry.

• The team likely comprises researchers, program directors, project managers, and other support staff, fostering an interdisciplinary environment.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven research and evaluation, utilizing quantitative methods and statistical analysis.

• Commitment to developing and implementing comprehensive evaluation plans for grant-funded projects.

• Focus on systematic data collection, management, and reporting to ensure research integrity and meet funding requirements.

• Adherence to ethical research practices, including the protection of confidential data and human subjects.

Company Website: https://uiarc.uiowa.edu/ (for UI ARC), https://medicine.uiowa.edu/psychiatry/ (for Psychiatry Department)

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Iowa's culture is rooted in academic research, discovery, and public service. Within the Department of Psychiatry and UI ARC, the culture likely emphasizes collaboration, scientific rigor, and a commitment to addressing addiction and recovery challenges through evidence-based research.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to early-career position within research operations and data analysis. It's suitable for individuals beginning their careers in research support or those looking to specialize in program evaluation and data management within a clinical research setting.

Reporting Structure: The Research Associate will report to the Program Directors and project leadership within the UI ARC team. This structure provides direct mentorship and guidance from experienced researchers and project leaders.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the success of grant-funded research projects by ensuring accurate data collection, rigorous analysis, and timely reporting. This contributes to the overall scientific validity, funding continuity, and the advancement of knowledge in substance use and addiction research.

Growth Opportunities:

• Gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing evaluation plans, developing expertise in research project management.

• Enhance skills in quantitative data analysis, statistical interpretation, and reporting through practical application.

• Develop proficiency with specialized research data management tools like REDCap and survey platforms like Qualtrics.

• Potential for advancement to more senior research associate roles, project coordination, or specialized data analyst positions within the university or related research institutions, particularly with further education.

• Opportunity to contribute to publications and presentations based on research findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: For candidates early in their operations or research support careers, this role offers a solid foundation in research project evaluation and data management. The specified term nature might influence long-term career planning, but the skills gained are transferable.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position within the University of Iowa Health Care facilities, specifically within the Department of Psychiatry and the UI ARC team. The environment will be a professional academic research setting.

Office Location(s): Iowa City, Iowa. The specific building or office location will be within the University of Iowa Health Care campus.

Workspace Context:

• Work will be performed in a collaborative office environment, requiring interaction with an interdisciplinary team of researchers and staff.

• Access to standard office technology, computers, and potentially specialized statistical software and research databases will be provided.

• Opportunities for regular team meetings, project discussions, and direct collaboration with supervisors and colleagues.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (40 hours/week) are expected, aligning with typical university business hours. While deadlines may necessitate focused work periods, the overall schedule aims for consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being on-site in an academic research institution means working within a structured environment focused on scientific inquiry and collaboration, with access to university resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials (Cover Letter, Resume) to assess alignment with required and desirable qualifications.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): Discussion of relevant experience, understanding of research evaluation, data analysis skills, and motivation for the role. May include behavioral questions.

• Second Interview (On-site/Video): Likely involves meeting with potential team members and supervisors. May include a presentation or case study related to data analysis or program evaluation.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical exercise or technical assessment focusing on data analysis, report generation, or REDCap proficiency.

• Final Interview: Discussion of role fit, career aspirations, and confirmation of logistical details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Data Analysis: Showcase specific examples of quantitative data analysis you've performed, detailing the methods used and the insights derived.

• Evaluation Plan Examples: If possible, include anonymized examples of evaluation plans you've contributed to or developed, demonstrating your understanding of research objectives and measurement.

• Reporting Samples: Present samples of reports you've authored, emphasizing clarity, accuracy, and the ability to communicate complex findings to different audiences.

• Tool Proficiency: Clearly articulate your experience with relevant tools like REDCap, Qualtrics, and any statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, SAS).

• Project Management: If applicable, describe your role in managing project timelines, data collection processes, and ensuring adherence to grant requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to data collection, cleaning, and analysis for a hypothetical research project.

• Anticipate questions about how you ensure data integrity and confidentiality.

• Practice articulating the importance of program evaluation in research settings.

• Prepare to explain your experience with statistical concepts and how you interpret findings.

• Familiarize yourself with the University of Iowa, the Department of Psychiatry, and the UI ARC's mission and research areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on evaluation and data, expect interviewers to probe deeply into your analytical capabilities and your understanding of research protocols. A strong, well-documented portfolio is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture): Essential for designing, building, and implementing research databases and data collection instruments. Proficiency is highly desirable.

• Qualtrics: Survey platform for collecting data through online questionnaires. Experience with survey design and deployment is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Statistical Software: Experience with common statistical analysis tools is expected. While not explicitly listed, this could include SPSS, SAS, R, or Python for statistical analysis and data manipulation.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data organization, basic analysis, and creating charts/graphs.

• Reporting Tools: Familiarity with generating reports from databases and presenting data effectively. Experience with grant reporting platforms like SPARS or Iowagrants is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding data management principles similar to CRM is relevant.

• Experience with any workflow automation tools that might be used in research data management could be beneficial, though not explicitly required.

📝 Enhancement Note: REDCap proficiency is a significant differentiator for this role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with it in detail.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Scientific Rigor: A commitment to accuracy, evidence-based practices, and robust data analysis in all research activities.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and mutual support among interdisciplinary team members.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of data privacy, confidentiality, and ethical conduct in human subjects research.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Dedication to meeting project deadlines and delivering high-quality work promptly, especially for grant reporting.

• Continuous Learning: An environment that encourages ongoing professional development and staying abreast of advancements in research methodologies and addiction science.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative approach where team members actively share information, provide feedback, and work collectively towards project goals.

• Cross-functional integration with researchers, clinicians, and program staff is key.

• Regular team meetings and project-specific discussions will facilitate information exchange and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture will likely reflect the values of a major research university and a healthcare system, prioritizing evidence, collaboration, and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Data Complexity: Managing and analyzing diverse datasets from various research protocols can be challenging.

• Grant Reporting Demands: Adhering to strict deadlines and specific reporting requirements for multiple funding agencies requires meticulous organization.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively communicating with and gathering information from a broad range of stakeholders with potentially differing needs.

• Navigating Research Protocols: Understanding and adhering to complex research designs and ethical guidelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in program evaluation methodologies and quantitative research design.

• Become highly proficient in specialized research data management tools like REDCap and survey platforms.

• Gain exposure to the substance use and addiction research landscape, potentially contributing to scientific publications.

• Develop advanced statistical analysis and interpretation skills.

• Enhance project management capabilities within a research context.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a strong learning curve in specialized research operations, particularly in data management and evaluation, which are critical skills in academic and clinical research environments.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to collect and analyze data for a project. What was your process, and what challenges did you face?" (Focus on methodology, data integrity, and problem-solving).

• "How would you approach developing an evaluation plan for a new grant-funded project on addiction treatment?" (Assess understanding of evaluation frameworks and goal alignment).

• "Explain your experience with REDCap or similar data management systems. What are its key features for research data?" (Gauge technical proficiency and understanding of research data needs).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative (UI ARC) and the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa?" (Demonstrate research into the team's mission and impact).

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative research setting." (Assess fit with the interdisciplinary team structure).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For any project examples, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Analyzed data for X participants, leading to Y key findings").

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate the steps you took in data collection, analysis, and reporting for each example.

• Tool Demonstration: Be ready to briefly explain how you utilized specific tools like REDCap or statistical software in your projects.

• Conciseness: Present your strongest, most relevant examples efficiently, focusing on how they align with the responsibilities of this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples from your experience that directly map to the responsibilities and qualifications listed, especially those involving data analysis, reporting, and project evaluation in a research context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the University of Iowa's Taleo careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to explicitly highlight your experience with data collection, data management, quantitative analysis, report writing, and program evaluation. Use keywords from the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Emphasize achievements related to supporting research projects, working with databases (especially REDCap), and contributing to grant reporting. Quantify your experience where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with statistical concepts, data analysis methodologies, and your understanding of research evaluation principles. Be ready to discuss your experience with tools like REDCap.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the mission of the UI Addiction and Recovery Collaborative (UI ARC) and the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa. Understand their research focus areas to better articulate your interest and fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.