Research Project Manager - Center for Advancing Health Equity in Rural and Underserved Communities

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

About the Unit:

The Center for Advancing Health Equity in Rural and Underserved Communities (CAHE-RUC) is a unique academic and community partnership committed to the comprehensive evaluation and implementation of evidence-based, community-level strategies to improve health outcomes for rural and underserved communities. With locations in Chicago and Hershey CAHE-RUC tackles a variety of complex public health and health system issues that require multi-disciplinary and multi-methodological approaches to achieve outcomes that benefit individuals and whole communities.

The Pennsylvania State College of Medicine (and its academic partners, Penn State Health and Milton S. Hershey Medical Center) are committed to enhancing the quality of life through improved health, the professional preparation of those who will serve the health needs of others and the discovery of knowledge that will benefit all. Penn State College of Medicine is part of an academic medical group that also includes: Penn State Health, a multi-hospital health system serving patients and communities across 29 counties in central Pennsylvania.

Job Summary:

The Research Project Manager oversees and advises on research project operations including study methodologies, protocol development, project deliverables and timelines, data management and analysis plans, and financial administration; provides guidance and oversight to research team members; and serves as the project point of contact with faculty, sponsors, and leadership.

Essential Responsibilities:

Research Planning, Coordination & Implementation

• Work closely with Sr. Director of Health Promotions to plan, coordinate, and implement rural health research, outreach, engagement, education, and screening initiatives across Central Pennsylvania.
• Lead ontheground execution of communitybased research initiative addressing cancer prevention and screening, diabetes, cardiovascular health, and other priority rural health disparities.
• Coordinate logistics for research and outreach activities, events, and screening initiatives, including scheduling, site coordination, materials, and partner engagement.
• Design and manage clinical research workflows, timelines, and infrastructure to support effective delivery of research, outreach and screening activities.
• Oversee collection and tracking of research activity data and outcomes; synthesize and communicate findings to leadership, partners, and funders to support research improvement and accountability.

Community Engagement & Partnership Development

• Serve as the primary liaison with rural and regional partners across Central Pennsylvania, including clinics, specialists, health systems, community-based organizations, and public health agencies.
• Build, strengthen, and sustain collaborative relationships with stakeholders to support clinical health research, outreach, education, engagement, and screening initiatives.
• Identify new partnership opportunities to address rural health disparities and expand program reach.
• Facilitate regular communication and coordination among partners to ensure alignment of goals, roles, and expectations.

Collaborate with Team and Leadership

• Build and maintain strong partnerships among internal teams and external stakeholders to strengthen research implementation and regional impact.
• Serve as a representative of the Center at community meetings, coalitions, and regional stakeholder events.
• Provide guidance, training, and support to staff, interns, or partners as appropriate
• Maintain up to date technical skills by attending relevant classes, workshops, and seminars and stay informed about new technologies that enhance productivity and operational effectiveness.
• Maintain a working knowledge of the Center's programs and contribute to planning.

Competencies:

• Understanding of rural health disparities, chronic disease prevention, and barriers to care (e.g., access, transportation, language).
• Ability to work in a collaborative, cooperative culture, in the field and within program teams
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently while collaborating within a team environment.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, work simultaneously on multiple initiatives, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong problem-solving and innovation competencies
• Demonstrate flexibility with timelines and work schedule
• Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and an understanding of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Willingness to travel within the region and engage with community partners
• Ability to establish effective, trusting working relationships with all stakeholders
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Highly proactive and flexible
• Knowledge and proficiency in all major software applications

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Preferred Education and Experience:

• 1+ years of professional experience in public health.
• 1+ years of experience in clinical setting.
• 1+ years of experience in rural health.
• Experience working with underserved populations preferred.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

SALARY & BENEFITS

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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