Research Assistant - Spinal Cord Injury

Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute (HHRI) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is seeking a part-time Research Assistant with knowledge of or experience living with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to join the Neurosurgery Restorative Neurotrauma Lab research team. This position involves 5-15 hours per week, split between telework and onsite work at the Hennepin Healthcare campus in downtown Minneapolis.

About the role

The Research Assistant will contribute to research operations, community engagement, and knowledge dissemination within the Restorative Neurotrauma Lab (RNL) at HHRI. The RA will apply their firsthand knowledge or experience of living with SCI to inform and strengthen research that affects the SCI community. Professional development and mentorship will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Applies knowledge of lived experience of spinal cord injury to inform study design, recruitment strategies, outcome measures, and participant-facing materials
• Reviews and provides feedback on consent forms, surveys, and protocols to ensure language and procedures are appropriate for the SCI community
• Provides candid, direct input to the research team, including critical feedback, and participates in lab discussions as a full collaborator
• Supports participant recruitment through personal and professional networks within the SCI community
• Builds and maintains relationships with SCI-focused organizations such as U2FP, GUSU, and PVA, as well as other SCI research labs and institutions
• Contributes to the lab's social media presence, newsletter, and website content
• Assists with drafting and reviewing outward-facing materials for community audiences
• Assists with data collection, entry, management, and analysis; training provided
• Supports writing tasks including protocols, grant applications, manuscripts, and reports
• Supports lab management activities such as inventory tracking and supply coordination
• Communicates with vendors for shipping and receiving of lab equipment and devices
• May represent the lab at community events, support groups, and conferences; travel optional based on interest and availability
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Knowledge of or lived experience of spinal cord injury is the foundational qualification for this role
• Prior research experience is not required; training will be provided
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Subject matter expertise in life with spinal cord injury, including familiarity with the healthcare system, rehabilitation, and assistive technology
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff, research participants, and other stakeholders including SCI community organizations
• Skilled in problem solving and keeping detailed records and files
• Proficient in basic computer and smartphone applications; assistive technology accommodated
• Ability to adapt and be flexible, and to work with accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and within a team, be self-directed and motivated, and communicate effectively
• High standards of attendance, punctuality, confidentiality, and time management

Benefits

• Public transportation accessible
• Drug test required
• Physical requirements apply

Pay

$11.41 / Hourly

Schedule

Part-time, 5-15 hours per week, split between telework and onsite work.