The Motivation Lab in the School of Kinesiology is seeking a reliable, organized, and detail-oriented Research Assistant I for a temporary 6–12 month position. The Motivation Lab is a dynamic learning community founded in shared values of collaboration, competence, and creativity. Our goal is to move people to live healthier and happier lives. We develop, evaluate and refine evidence-based approaches, often delivered via wearable, connected and mobile technologies, to make health behavior change enjoyable and efficient. The primary responsibilities involve helping to recruit participants for a new clinical trial and conducting Zoom calls with study participants to assist with data collection and study coordination.

The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about health research, comfortable interacting with participants via remote platforms, and is able to work independently on basic research tasks under supervision. This is a great opportunity for those interested in gaining hands-on experience with clinical trials and research operations in an academic setting.

Key Responsibilities:

•        Participant Recruitment & Data Collection

o        Assist with recruitment and screening of participants for a clinical trial via email, phone, and video calls.
o        Schedule and conduct Zoom calls with study participants to perform protocol-defined assessments.
o        Enter and manage participant data in secure databases (e.g., REDCap).
o        Follow study protocols to support participant retention and troubleshooting basic issues.
o        Help preserve the integrity of the clinical trial through careful data collection and attention to detail.
o        Packing and shipping study supplies; receiving study devices returns and processing participant data.

•        Basic Study Coordination

o        Assist with organizing and tracking study documents and records.
o        Support the research team by preparing materials and communicating scheduling details.
o        Maintain participant confidentiality and adhere to research ethics at all times.
o        Support the day-to-day operations of the lab, including simple administrative tasks (e.g., record-keeping, data entry).

•        Other Duties as Assigned

o        Contribute to a positive and collaborative research environment.
o        Perform additional tasks as needed by the motivation lab team related to data collection, study logistics, or participant support.

Required Qualifications:

•        High school diploma or GED required.
•        Comfortable using Microsoft Office products and remote video platforms (Zoom).
•        Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
•        Ability to manage time effectively, follow instructions, and work independently with basic supervision.
•        Demonstrated interest in health or behavioral research a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

•        Bachelor’s degree or some college coursework in a related field (e.g., health science, psychology, kinesiology) preferred.
•        Experience with human subjects research or participant-facing roles.
•        Experience with data entry and management (e.g., REDCap, Qualtrics).
•        Prior work with clinical trials or health behavior-related research is an asset but not required.