OPS Temporary Research Physical Therapist

About the role

This study builds on the completed IM ABLE study (DOD Award #W81XWH-16-1-0738) and addresses a critical gap in the orthotics literature: whether advanced, custom carbon-fiber AFOs offer meaningful long-term benefit over conventional AFO designs. Participants (Veterans and Service Members with lower extremity trauma) will be fit with both AFO categories, complete a structured accommodation and training period, undergo functional and patient-reported outcome testing, and be followed for approximately 14 months to assess device utilization, function, pain, and preference in real-world community settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide structured, study-protocol orthotic training to participants transitioning to a conventional or advanced AFO, consistent with the DoD Return to Run / Functional Mobility Program framework (e.g., gait training, walking at varied speeds, obstacle navigation, stair ascent/descent, uneven terrain, light-to-moderate jogging as appropriate).
• Deliver up to six training sessions per device category, per participant, over the three-week accommodation period, and determine when a participant has achieved functional independence with each device.
• Administer standardized functional and performance outcome measures with other study team members at each required study time point, including the Two-Minute Walk Test (2MWT), Timed Up & Go (TUG), Four-Square-Step-Test, and 40-Yard Dash (for eligible high-functioning participants).
• Complete required study documentation, including Physical Therapist Training Checklists, in accordance with study protocol and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.
• Collaborate with the study orthotist and site Principal Investigator on device-fit concerns, safety observations, and participant readiness for independent device use.
• Communicate participant safety concerns, adverse events, or protocol deviations promptly to the site PI and study team.
• Maintain accurate, timely source documentation and data entry in study case report forms / electronic data capture systems, safeguarding participant confidentiality and PHI at all times.
• Participate in study team meetings, training on the study protocol, and periodic multi-site communications (e.g., monthly video conferences) as needed.
• Support coordination of participant visit scheduling with the research coordinator to align training and assessment sessions with the study timeline.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, or physics; and a graduate from a physical therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
• Requires Florida State Licensure as a Physical Therapist.
• Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree.
• Prior experience in a clinical research or grant-funded study environment (e.g., DoD-, VA-, or NIH-funded research).
• Experience working with military-connected or Veteran populations.
• Familiarity with AFO categories (conventional vs. advanced/energy-storing) and orthotic prescription and rehabilitation practices.
• Board certification or advanced training in orthopedics, neurology, or a related clinical specialty.
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a CAPTE-accredited program (or equivalent credential recognized for PT licensure).
• Current, active, unencumbered license to practice physical therapy in the State of Florida (or eligibility to obtain licensure prior to start).
• Working knowledge of, or willingness to be trained in, standardized functional outcome measures (2MWT, TUG, Four-Square-Step-Test) and orthotic training principles.
• Strong documentation skills and comfort working within research protocols, case report forms, and regulatory requirements (IRB/HRPO).
• Ability to complete required human subjects research training (e.g., CITI training) prior to participant contact.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working with Veterans, Service Members, and a multidisciplinary, multi-site research team.

Position Details

• Location: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, with study activities coordinated across USF, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, and affiliated clinical sites.
• Compensation: Hourly rate, commensurate with experience; hours will vary based on participant enrollment, training, and assessment visit volume.
• Schedule: Flexible/as-needed, scheduled around participant visit availability; not a benefits-eligible position.
• Appointment: Grant-funded (DoD PRORP) hourly contractor position; continuation contingent on study funding and enrollment needs.
• Reports to: Site Principal Investigator / Study Team, USF School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences.

About Us

The University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

Additional Information for applicants

Interested candidates should submit a current resume/CV, a copy of active PT license, and a brief statement of interest describing relevant clinical and/or research experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.