Research Specialist Part-Time: College of Nursing - UTK

The College of Nursing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville seeks a reliable and detail-oriented Research Specialist to support an NIH/NINR R01-funded research project and a pilot project. Under the oversight and training of the Principal Investigator (PI) and study coordinator, this position is responsible for screening, recruiting, enrolling, and consenting study participants; scheduling participant appointments; collecting study data; conducting participant follow-up activities; and tracking study device usage to ensure accurate use and address any participant questions or misunderstandings. The Research Specialist will communicate regularly with the PI and study coordinator regarding study progress and any issues encountered during the research process.

This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant. 

• Assist with study-related activities (e.g., patient eligibility screening, recruitment, consenting and enrollment, data collection, and data entry/checking) under the supervision of the study project coordinator and principal investigator. 
• Regularly track whether participants use the devices accurately and communicate with participants to correct any misunderstandings. 
• Assist with maintaining the quality of the data (e.g., missing data), communicate with team members related to participant data problems, and collect some outcome data (e.g., hospitalization data). 
• Collaborate and consult with other health professionals in study participation and to ensure protocol compliance (specific protocols being monitored include data collection, data completeness checking, study setup, equipment setup and operation, monthly follow-ups, etc.). 
• Communicate with the principal investigator and project coordinator on a weekly basis regarding any issues encountered during screening, recruitment, data collection, and follow-ups; for example, inability to reach participants, challenges with recruitment, enrollment, data collection, or follow-up activities, or difficulties setting up, using, or tracking study devices. 
• Attend weekly team meetings. 
• Learn the basics of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and standard operating procedures (SOPs). 
• Perform other assigned study activities as needed.

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing or health related field 
• Experience in healthcare in practices such as cardiovascular care, especially heart failure patient care

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Strong knowledge of Word, Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Zoom, REDCap
•  Must be able to work well and collaborate with others in a wide variety of positions in varying departments.
• Must be able to work autonomously, solve problems and use critical thinking.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Direct experience providing care or services to patients, with strong interpersonal skills.

Work Location: Knoxville, TN - onsite 

Compensation and Benefits: 

• UT market range: MR03

• Anticipated hiring range: $20 - $25/hr 

• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here 

Application Instructions 

For best consideration, applicants should submit a cover letter and resume before October 28th, 2026.  Specific questions about the position may be sent to College of Nursing Human Resources, conhr@utk.edu

About the College of Nursing 

With a longstanding tradition of excellence in nursing education, research, and clinical practice, we are proud to be a guiding force in healthcare education. We embrace innovation while honoring the values that have shaped our success. By offering cutting-edge academic programs, supporting impactful research, and forging strong community partnerships, we prepare healthcare professionals who deliver high-quality, culturally responsive care in a diverse and ever-changing world. Join the Vol Nurse Family! Get to know CON