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.

This is a full-time position- seasonal/summer opportunities are not available.     The Therapy Assistant (Therapeutic Assistant) works with young children with autism and/or related social-language delays in small group speech therapy alongside a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP). Treatment sessions focus on communication, social, emotional, and self-regulatory development. Sessions also include push-in occupational therapy services to work on fine and gross motor skills as well as sensory integration and regulation.   Group sizes range from three to five children under the age of six and meet between 3-4 times per week for ninety minutes to two and a half hour sessions. All children have individualized treatment plans and are thoughtfully placed in groups with children working on similar skills.  An ability to build relationships and work consistently with many of the same children over a period of time is emphasized.  Parental involvement is encouraged and supported through guided observations and regular observation days.   Additional benefits related to this position include career growth and professional development opportunities through paid training and conferences, opportunities to meet and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, networking opportunities throughout KKI and flexible scheduling options.