RRI UP Research Associate

Overview

Portland State University – Regional Research Institute (RRI) seeks a Research Associate. This is a full-time, fixed-term (12 months) position with variable FTE between 0.50 and 1.0. The proposed start date is 04/01/2026 and the end date is 09/30/2027.

Location:

Portland, OR. Salary is negotiable and depends on education, experience, and budget.

• Assist in the design and oversight of research studies, contribute to data analysis, and supervise experimental procedures.
• Support the development of new research methodologies and data collection protocols.
• Handle administrative tasks, including tracking and processing participant incentives and monitoring project expenses to ensure budget adherence.
• Collaborate with RRI staff to implement project activities effectively.
• Provide day-to-day coordination of research operations and training of research staff; assist the Principal Investigator(s) as needed.

• Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD or an appropriate combination of educational achievement and professional expertise.
  • Four or more years of progressively responsible research experience.
  • Experience working with programs implementing Trauma-Informed Care and/or Zero Suicide.
  • At least one year as a grants project manager.
  • Experience with MS Word, MS Excel, SPSS, Zoom, Asana, Atlas qualitative analysis software, and Qualtrics web survey software.
  • Experience assessing fidelity to evidence-based or promising social services.
  • Coursework and experience in qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  • Possession of a valid State-issued driver’s license.
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience applying for and/or reporting for federal and/or state funding mechanisms.
  • Three to five years as a grants project manager.
  • Experience supervising other research staff.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presenting research results to funders and conference attendees.
  • Training and experience with GIS mapping and Tableau data visualization software.
  • Training and experience in creating and managing databases using MS Access.
  • Ability to travel independently to project sites and meet with community partners around Oregon.

• Special
  
  Working Conditions:
  
  The Research Associate will work outside of PSU in community agencies for approximately 40% of the time.
• Required documents:
  Resume and Cover Letter. (Other documents may be requested during the process.)
• Application instructions, deadlines, and contact information are provided by the Regional Research Institute.

Salary and Benefits

The starting annual salary for this position will be $74,340 at 1.0 FTE, with potential negotiation above this rate based on experience, skills, and department budget. PSU offers a comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare coverage and retirement options. A total compensation calculator is available to see full benefits value.

Location and About PSU

Portland State University is Oregon’s affordable public research university, located in Portland. The institution emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and innovation, with opportunities for hands-on learning and partnerships with community organizations.

How to apply

and contact information are available through PSU’s postings. For questions, please email the Regional Research Institute at contact-rri.