OPS - Community Scientist

Dr. Carolyn M. Tucker directs and serves as the Principal Investigator for the UF Health Cancer Institute Community-Partnered Cancer Disparities Research Collaborative (CDRC). This collaborative consists of 13 churches and their pastors, community and faculty researchers, cancer survivors, undergraduate student interns, and health disparities research staff. These groups work together to conduct community-based participatory research aimed at promoting cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. The CDRC targets cancer survivors and people at risk for cancer in low-income communities in or near East Gainesville, as well as rural and low-income communities in Alachua County, with a goal of reducing cancer incidence, deaths, and disparities disproportionately affecting Black, Hispanic, and other minoritized groups.

About the role

Community Scientists engage with diverse communities to support recruitment of participants for health disparities- and cancer-related research studies conducted or supported by the CDRC. The ideal candidate is outgoing, articulate, creative, and comfortable initiating conversations with individuals they may not know. This role requires explaining research studies, answering questions, and helping eligible community members understand the benefits of participating in research. Community Scientists collect data from participants, including height and weight, and are trained to obtain informed consent. Candidates will complete IRB certification training and other job-specific training. Connections within the Gainesville community, such as with local churches and organizations, are beneficial. While some meetings are virtual, in-person attendance at meetings, training sessions, and community events is required.

Responsibilities

• Participant Recruitment and Consent: Recruit participants for health promotion and cancer prevention research studies, collaborating with CDRC partner churches.
• Consent and Screening: Screen potential participants and obtain informed consent for CDRC-led research studies.
• Data Collection: Collect baseline and post-intervention data from research participants, including height and weight, following study protocols.
• Incentive Distribution: Distribute gift cards to participants after completion of designated study activities.
• Focus Group Facilitation: Conduct focus groups with select participants to gather qualitative data when applicable.
• Meetings: Attend monthly CDRC planning meetings and virtual weekly Community Scientist meetings to stay updated on study developments.
• Training: Participate in approximately four hours of training covering research tasks, participant interaction protocols, and data collection procedures.
• Events: Attend CDRC community engagement events throughout the year and distribute flyers.

Requirements

• Able to speak, read, and understand English.
• At least 21 years of age or older.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Community-based research experience or interest in conducting health-related research.
• Ability to communicate effectively with community members from diverse backgrounds.
• Familiarity with the health concerns and needs of underserved communities.
• Passion for reducing cancer disparities and improving community health.
• Established connections within diverse Gainesville and Alachua County communities.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity.
• Learns quickly.
• High school diploma or GED.

Pay

$16 per hour.

Schedule

Seasonal, project-based position with up to 15 hours per week based on participant availability and program needs. No work hours are available when no projects are active.