Research Specialist I

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI; Dr. Erik Storholm), the Research Specialist will be primarily involved in National Institute of Health (NIH) funded research projects related to improving the health of sexual and gender minorities.

About the role

The Research Specialist will primarily be responsible for pursuing independent data analysis and manuscripts on multiple existing datasets focused on improving mental health, reducing substance use, preventing violence, and decreasing HIV/STI transmission. This position offers opportunities for mentorship in career development and grant writing. The Research Specialist will also assist the PI and Program Manager with other research-related activities, including IRB renewals, grant reports, grant proposal supplementary materials, and research participant recruitment and retention efforts.

This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits-eligible, temporary position with a duration of two years—a one-year appointment term renewable for an additional year, contingent on funding and performance. The position is designated as exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation. The start date is on or after July 1, 2026.

Questions regarding this position may be directed to Dr. Erik Storholm (estorholm@sdsu.edu). Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire. Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).

Responsibilities

• Data Analysis & Scientific Writing (55%)
  • Conduct independent quantitative and qualitative data analysis on multiple existing large datasets, including longitudinal data
  • Use statistical software programs (Stata and R) to manage and analyze study data
  • Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals
  • Contribute to grant proposals and grant proposal supplementary materials
  • Present research findings at lab meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences
• Research Project Support (30%)
  • Assist the PI and Program Manager with IRB submissions, renewals, and modifications
  • Assist with preparation of grant progress reports and summary reports for funding agencies
  • Support research participant recruitment and retention efforts across active studies
  • Assist with study protocol implementation and data collection activities as needed
• Lab Engagement & Mentoring (10%)
  • Actively participate in regularly scheduled lab meetings and project meetings
  • Participate in mentoring current students and research staff
  • Attend seminars, colloquia, and other regularly scheduled educational activities at San Diego State University
• Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

Requirements

• Experience with manuscript writing, grant proposals, and other grant responsibilities such as summary reports and progress reports
• Experience conducting statistical analysis with large databases
• Experience with longitudinal research methods and data analysis
• Experience using statistical software programs Stata and R
• Experience with clinical interventions
• Experience working with sexual and gender minority populations
• Experience with HIV prevention and treatment research
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment

Qualifications

• Equivalent to graduation from a four-year university
• One year of experience in technical research or statistical work experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in clinical psychology, epidemiology, public health, social and behavioral sciences, or related fields
• Training and experience in quantitative and qualitative research methods