Research Coordinator Jobs: Definition, Roles & Requirements

🎓 What is a Research Coordinator?

A Research Coordinator, sometimes called a Study Coordinator, is a vital professional in higher education and research institutions who oversees the operational aspects of research projects. This role involves coordinating all elements of a study, from initial planning to final reporting, ensuring everything aligns with ethical standards and funding requirements. The meaning of Research Coordinator centers on being the central hub for research teams, managing timelines, budgets, and personnel to drive scientific discovery forward.

In academic settings, Research Coordinators support faculty and principal investigators by handling administrative duties, participant recruitment, and data management. For instance, in fields like biomedical research, they ensure compliance with federal regulations such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The position has grown in importance since the mid-20th century, paralleling the explosion of grant-funded research in universities worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Research Coordinators juggle multiple tasks to keep projects on track. They develop study protocols, screen and enroll participants, collect and analyze data, and prepare progress reports for funding agencies. Maintaining accurate records and adhering to Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals is crucial to protect human subjects.

• Coordinating multi-site studies and team communications
• Budget tracking and grant administration
• Liaison with ethics committees and regulatory bodies
• Training staff on research procedures

In smaller institutions, they might also contribute to literature reviews or preliminary data analysis, making the role dynamic and multifaceted.

Required Qualifications and Skills

To land Research Coordinator jobs, candidates typically need a Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, psychology, public health, or social sciences; a Master's degree significantly strengthens applications. Preferred experience includes 2-5 years in research environments, with a track record of managing grants or publications.

Key skills and competencies encompass:

• Strong organizational and project management abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Proficiency in software like REDCap for data capture or SPSS for analysis
• Knowledge of research ethics and compliance standards

Research focus often aligns with the institution's strengths, such as environmental studies or health disparities. Actionable advice: Pursue certifications like the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) to stand out. Tailor your resume to highlight quantifiable impacts, such as 'Managed a $200,000 grant leading to three peer-reviewed publications.'

📍 Research Coordinator Opportunities in American Samoa

American Samoa, a U.S. territory in the South Pacific, offers niche Research Coordinator positions primarily at American Samoa Community College (ASCC). Research here emphasizes local priorities like marine biology, climate resilience, and public health amid rising sea levels. With limited higher education infrastructure, roles often involve community-engaged research, partnering with federal agencies like NOAA.

These jobs blend academic rigor with cultural context, requiring sensitivity to Samoan traditions (fa'a Samoa). Salaries align with U.S. territory scales, around $50,000-$65,000, with opportunities for fieldwork in stunning island environments. Explore related paths via research jobs or postdoctoral success tips.

Career Advancement Tips

Aspiring Research Coordinators should build networks through conferences and platforms like higher ed career advice. Gaining experience as a research assistant is a common entry point. For CV polishing, refer to how to write a winning academic CV. Advanced roles lead to Research Director positions with PhD pursuits.

Next Steps for Research Coordinator Jobs

Ready to advance your career? Browse higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or consider posting opportunities at post a job to connect with top talent.

Definitions

Institutional Review Board (IRB): An administrative body that reviews research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards and participant safety.

Good Clinical Practice (GCP): International ethical and scientific quality standard for designing, conducting, and reporting trials that involve human participants.

Principal Investigator (PI): The primary individual responsible for the design, execution, and reporting of a research project.