The Staff Research Scientist will investigate, identify, develop, implement, and monitor systems to ensure that the assigned research projects/studies comply with Institutional Review Board (IRB) standards, scientific procedures, and stay within timelines for the Center for Autism Services, Science, and Innovation (CASSI, formerly known as the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, or CARD). This professional will independently evaluate and select techniques, protocols, and research methods under direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) (Dr. Landa). This person will conduct research assessments and related research activities to include coding data, conducting interrater reliability trials, preparing summaries for families and making appropriate clinical referrals while serving as the key interface/collaborator. The incumbent will train, orient, and supervise research staff and Trainees; oversee the technical aspects and design of projects/studies, prepare progress reports for the PI, author papers, present at conferences, and assist with the preparation of National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports and grant submissions.

1. Develop, execute, and continuously monitor systems and research protocols for specific research projects/ studies to ensure that Institutional Review Board (IRB)/ scientific requirements are met, confidentiality is maintained, the consent processes are followed, and the accuracy of the data is maintained.
2. Coordinate research protocols with Principal Investigators (PIs) and internal/ external study coordinators.
3. Assist in developing coding schemas, code data, and conduct inter-rater reliability trials.
4. Prepare and submit materials for IRB applications and renewals, ensuring deadlines are adhered to.
5. Prepare progress reports for the PI and assist in the preparation for National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports and grants.
6. Assess infants and children, with and without developmental disabilities, using standardized and non-standardized assessment instruments, as part of the research protocol.
7. Supervise research staff assigned to work on specific research projects/ studies. Assist with the recruitment, orientation, and administrative requirements of research staff and trainees.
8. Develop and conduct training for research staff and trainees related to specified study protocols, and for general lab and research procedures (e.g., scoring, consenting, archiving data, telephone screening).
9. Monitor staff and trainees’ time ensuring progress on projects. Investigate and identify problems and develop solutions related to IRB, study, protocol, and data issues.
10. Inform parents of their child’s assessment results and make appropriate referrals and recommendations when necessary. Prepare written summaries of assessments in a timely manner.
11. Conduct presentations related to research and/ or autism.

EDUCATION:
• Master’s degree in; Speech-Language Pathology, Rehabilitation, Psychology, Special Education, or a specified field of learning is required.
• PhD in; Speech-Language Pathology, Rehabilitation, Psychology, Special Education, or a specified field of learning is preferred.

EXPERIENCE:
• A minimum of 5 years of related research experience (administering standardized assessments) required.
• Recent supervisory/management experience required.

We require full COVID vaccination or documentation of medical and/or religious exemption(s) approval for this job as we are a healthcare institution committed to putting health and safety first for our patients, students, employees, and the communities we serve.

Kennedy Krieger Institute offers excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401K with match, tuition reimbursement, free parking and child care subsidies!  In addition, we offer rich professional development opportunities.