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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) Biosciences Group is seeking two motivated and energetic temporary Research Assistants to join our team. We are looking for individuals who thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment, and are eager to explore new locations while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children through research and innovation.  

If you have a passion for research, a desire to travel, and an enthusiasm for working in dynamic environments, we want to hear from you!

What You'll Do

You will work with study coordinators, engineers, scientists and other members of the project  team on a research study gathering detailed size, shape, body composition data and physical capability of children ages 3 through 17. 

You will work in an engaging work environment with access to leading research tools, such as high-resolution 3D body scanning technology.

You will engage in groundbreaking research that will create a new public archive of anthropometry and physical development data for U.S. youth that may yield insights into patterns of growth and development and factors influencing overall health and well-being (https://www.youthshape.us/).

Your efforts will contribute to the development of products designed specifically for children, such as clothing, protective equipment, and medical devices, and ensure that these products are both safe and effective, directly impacting children's health and well-being.

After successful completion of on-site training in Ann Arbor, you will travel to and work at designated research locations outside of Michigan for 8-12 weeks at a time.  Housing, per diem and airfare (if applicable) will be provided.  When not deployed to designated research locations, you will work daily, in person at the UMTRI facility.

Who We Are

The Biosciences Group at UMTRI conducts research on the biomechanics of motor vehicle occupants as it relates to occupant injuries, crash protection, and occupant accommodation. Biosciences researchers use state-of-the-art laboratory testing facilities, computer modeling, and data analysis techniques to conduct a wide range of research. The scope of Biosciences work encompasses these main areas:

Engineering anthropometry and vehicle ergonomics, including extensive testing with volunteers to characterize their posture, motion, and body shape while interacting with vehicles, seats, and other consumer products.Computational human body modeling to assess the effects of crashes and other loading scenarios on human response and injury.Injury biomechanics, involving lab work with human surrogates to study the response of the human body to dynamic loading.Crash data analysis to identify the mechanisms involved in motor-vehicle injury and assess the performance of occupant protection systems.

Follow the links below to see examples of some of the exciting research being conducted by the Biosciences Group at UMTRI:

https://humanshape.org/

https://mreed.umtri.umich.edu/mreed/

Responsibilities*Training:  Complete a comprehensive 1-2 month on-site training program at the UMTRI facility in Ann Arbor to gain familiarity with research protocols, data collection procedures, and equipment usage.Data Collection:  Execute data collection processes in studies involving child (ages 3-17) participants, adhering strictly to ethical and methodological guidelines.Data Processing:  Process collected data and ensure secure backup of test data results while handling with accuracy and confidentiality.Laboratory Equipment:  Set up, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance, troubleshooting and resolving any technical issues as they arise.Communication:  Maintain clear and effective communications with supervisors at UMTRI and with onsite contacts to ensure smooth progress and coordination of research activities. Provide regular updates on study progress and any issues encountered.Supervision: Provide functional supervision and guidance to staff assisting with research activities, ensuring adherence to study protocols and quality standards.Required Qualifications*Associate's degree in the basic biological health or medical sciences (e.g. Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Biology), Public Health (e.g. Occupational Health, Environmental Health, Global Health), applied sciences (e.g. Engineering, Information Technology, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science), or social sciences (e.g. Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Education, Early Childhood Development), or equivalent combination of education and experience.1-2 year(s) of experience in research, data collection or a related area.Travel to various locations outside of Michigan, for 8-12 weeks at a time, to conduct work.Strong initiative and critical-thinking skills.Excellent verbal and written communication skills and attention to detail.Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.Proficient with Windows PC and Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.A valid Driver?s License is required and a successful Motor Vehicle Record check must be completed when driving a U-M vehicle.U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required.Desired Qualifications*Graduation from a college or university with a bachelor?s degree in the basic biological, health or medical sciences (e.g. Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Biology), Public Health (e.g. Occupational Health, Environmental Health, Global Health), applied sciences (e.g. Engineering, Information Technology, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science), or social sciences (e.g. Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Education, Early Childhood Development), or equivalent combination of education and experience.Prior experience working with children and/or with human subjects in a research setting.Demonstrated proficiency in speaking, writing, and reading in Spanish.Previous experience in a supervisor role.Modes of Work

This position is classified as on-site.  Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

This is a 12 month temporary position with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.  A higher salary may be considered for an extraordinarily qualified candidate.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Requires the ability to travel to various locations outside of Michigan for 8-12 weeks at a time to conduct work.Routinely moves laboratory equipment including lifting, pushing and pulling up to 40 pounds and positions self to set up laboratory equipment.Occasionally bends, reaches and remains stationary for extended periods of time.Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.