Research Assistant, IHE - Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers

The Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation, and Policy (IHE) is dedicated to advancing health equity across Massachusetts through research, evaluation, and policy development rooted in emancipatory principles. A division of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, IHE seeks to address health inequities through research that informs public policy and clinical practice while creating career growth opportunities for community health center staff.

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our dynamic team of researchers in this exciting and impactful mission. You will play a key role in supporting community health center-led projects and contribute to advancing research that drives positive change in public health. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about health equity, research, and community-based initiatives.

Position Summary:

The Research Assistant will work under the mentorship of the Senior Qualitative Research Scientist and Data Scientist to contribute to research projects aligned with the IHE mission. Your responsibilities will include conducting qualitative and quantitative research, project coordination, and contributing to the dissemination of research findings. You will gain hands-on experience with a variety of research methods while working closely with a collaborative team of professionals in a growing, mission-driven organization.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the design, implementation, and analysis of research projects, ensuring they are completed on time and in accordance with protocols.
• Support the coordination of project tasks, including literature reviews, protocol creation, and maintaining study documentation.
• Conduct qualitative research, including interviews, focus groups, and surveys.
• Perform quantitative analysis, including data cleaning, preparation, and basic statistical analyses using tools like Excel, R, Python, or other data software.
• Contribute to the development of research instruments (e.g., interview guides and surveys).
• Prepare reports and manuscripts for internal and external dissemination, including publications and conference presentations.
• Coordinate meetings, take notes, and facilitate communication among project stakeholders.
• Collaborate on community health center-led projects related to topics such as substance use disorder, chronic disease, and workforce development.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of qualitative research methods (e.g., interviews, focus groups, surveys).
• Familiarity with basic data analytics, statistics, and data visualization techniques (e.g., in Excel, R, Python).
• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team and stakeholders.
• A commitment to working in a multi-cultural environment and supporting diversity, inclusion, and belonging activities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with inferential statistics and biostatistics.
• Experience with human-centered design or digital accessibility (or a willingness to learn).
• Previous experience working with public health or epidemiological data.
• Experience with survey software or survey analysis is a plus.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., sociology, psychology, statistics) or related experience.
• Relevant work experience is a plus but not required.

Why Join Us?

At IHE, you'll be part of a vibrant, mission-driven team that is making a direct impact on health equity in Massachusetts. This role offers excellent mentorship opportunities, exposure to cutting-edge research, and a collaborative environment that encourages professional growth. If you're eager to contribute to meaningful public health research and support community health initiatives, we want to hear from you!

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

The Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation and Policy is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.