Public Health Research Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era where public health issues are at the forefront of global concerns, the role of a public health research assistant is increasingly crucial.

As healthcare systems evolve, the need for talented individuals who can contribute to, analyze, and implement public health research grows ever more pressing.

But what exactly is expected from a public health research assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the nature of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of public health research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a versatile public health research assistant job description template, devised for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Public Health Research Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Research Assistants play a critical role in the public health sector, conducting extensive research to gather and analyze data related to public health issues.

They also assist in the development and implementation of health programs.

Their duties and responsibilities typically include:

• Assisting in the design and planning of public health research studies
• Collecting and analyzing data on public health issues through various methods such as surveys, interviews, and literature reviews
• Assisting in the development of research tools and questionnaires
• Entering, managing and processing data using statistical software
• Preparing and presenting research findings in a clear and understandable manner
• Participating in the development and implementation of health programs
• Helping to write research proposals, reports and manuscripts for publication
• Keeping up-to-date with current research and developments in the public health field
• Maintaining strict confidentiality of all research data
• Performing administrative tasks as required, such as scheduling meetings and organizing files

 

Public Health Research Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Public Health Research Assistant to join our team.

Your role will primarily involve gathering and interpreting data, compiling reports on public health trends, and assisting in the development and implementation of health programs.

The ideal candidate should have a keen interest in public health issues, possess strong research skills, and should be able to work well within a team.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and conducting research studies on public health-related issues.
• Perform data collection, analysis, and interpretation using statistical techniques.
• Prepare reports and presentations summarizing research findings.
• Assist in the development and implementation of health programs and initiatives.
• Collaborate with team members and other health professionals to accomplish project goals.
• Stay updated on current public health issues, research, and best practices.
• Help in preparing grant proposals and other funding requests.
• Adhere to ethical standards and protocols during research.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Research Assistant or similar role in public health.
• Strong knowledge of research methodologies, data analysis, and statistical tools.
• Familiarity with public health issues, systems, and regulations.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Statistics or a related field.

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Professional development assistance
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Flexible schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Research Assistant
• Work Environment: This role may involve fieldwork as well as office-based work. Some travel may be required for data collection and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Public Health Research Director.
• Salary: Compensation is competitive and commensurate with skills and experience.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your interest in public health research, and any relevant work samples to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Public Health Research Assistant Do?

Public Health Research Assistants work primarily in universities, research institutions, hospitals, or public health departments.

Their main role is to provide support to research projects related to public health issues.

They assist in the planning, development, and implementation of research studies.

This may include designing surveys, conducting interviews, or collecting and analyzing data.

They could be involved in a variety of studies from epidemiological research to behavioral studies.

They are often responsible for literature review, helping to understand the current state of research on a particular public health issue.

This can help researchers in defining their research questions or hypotheses.

They prepare reports and presentations, summarizing the research findings, and may also be involved in the publication of research papers.

Public Health Research Assistants also ensure the research is conducted ethically and in accordance with protocols, data privacy laws, and institutional guidelines.

They might also be involved in recruiting study participants and ensuring their consent to participate in the research.

Their role is critical in helping to understand the trends, causes, and effects of health issues, which can contribute to the development of public health policies and programs.

 

Public Health Research Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A Public Health Research Assistant should possess a range of skills and qualifications that help them contribute to research projects and public health studies effectively, such as:

• Understanding of public health principles, methodologies, and ethics to assist in designing and implementing studies.
• Strong analytical skills to understand, interpret, and summarize complex health data accurately.
• Proficiency in using statistical software such as SPSS, R, or SAS for data analysis and visualization.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, such as coordinating data collection, maintaining records, and preparing reports.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to present research findings, write reports, and liaise with different stakeholders effectively.
• Detail-oriented to ensure all data collected is accurate and to spot errors or inconsistencies in data sets.
• Teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with other research team members, including public health specialists, statisticians, and healthcare professionals.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues with the research methods or data and propose solutions.

 

Public Health Research Assistant Experience Requirements

Public Health Research Assistants often have a background in public health, biology, or a related field.

Many start gaining experience through an undergraduate research project, a relevant internship, or a part-time role in a public health organization.

This initial experience provides foundational knowledge in research methods, data collection, and analysis.

Entry-level candidates typically have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in the public health field.

During this time, they may acquire skills such as data analysis, public health policy understanding, and familiarity with epidemiological methods.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have a deeper understanding of public health issues, have conducted more complex research projects, and have a proven ability to analyze and interpret data.

They may also have experience presenting findings and collaborating with other health professionals.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have specialized knowledge in a specific public health area.

They may have experience in grant writing or project management, and be ready for more supervisory roles in research projects.

Additionally, they may have published research in peer-reviewed journals, signaling their substantial contribution to the field.

Advanced roles in public health research may require a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Public Health or a related field, with a significant focus on research methods and statistical analysis.

 

Public Health Research Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Research Assistants usually hold a bachelor’s degree in public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, or a related field.

A strong foundation in research methods, statistics, and data analysis is essential for this role.

Experience in using statistical software such as SPSS, SAS, or R is beneficial.

In addition to these, a master’s degree in public health or a related field may be advantageous for advanced positions.

These programs typically offer concentration areas such as environmental health, health services administration, or health promotion, which provide more specialized training.

Public Health Research Assistants might also consider obtaining certification in public health (CPH) to demonstrate their knowledge and competence in the field.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest public health issues and research methodologies is critical in this ever-evolving field.

Some professionals may also choose to pursue a PhD for roles that involve more complex research design and leadership in the research process.

 

Public Health Research Assistant Salary Expectations

A Public Health Research Assistant can expect to earn an average salary of $45,600 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, education, the nature of the specific project they are working on, and the location of the employing organization.

 

Public Health Research Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Research Assistant need?

Public Health Research Assistants should have strong analytical skills to interpret and analyze data effectively.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they often work as part of a team and may need to present their findings to others.

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are also crucial in this role.

Familiarity with statistical software and data collection methods are also beneficial.

 

Do Public Health Research Assistants need a degree?

Most Public Health Research Assistant positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in public health, biology, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree, particularly those that involve complex research design and analysis.

In addition, practical experience in a research setting can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Research Assistant resume?

In a Public Health Research Assistant’s resume, look for a strong educational background in a relevant field, along with any specialized courses in research methodologies or statistics.

Practical experience in data collection, analysis, and report writing is also key.

Proficiency in statistical software or other research tools is highly desirable.

Candidates with publications or conference presentations can also be particularly compelling.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Research Assistant?

A good Public Health Research Assistant is detail-oriented and committed to accuracy in their work.

They should be curious, analytical thinkers, always keen to dig deeper into data and find meaningful patterns.

Good teamwork and communication skills are also essential, as they often work as part of a team and need to communicate their findings effectively.

Persistence and patience are valuable traits, as research often involves long hours of data collection and analysis.

 

Is it difficult to hire Public Health Research Assistants?

Hiring a Public Health Research Assistant can be challenging, particularly for specialized or advanced research roles that require specific expertise or experience.

However, many candidates are attracted to these roles for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that can impact public health.

Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive research environment can help attract quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we have unraveled the true essence of being a Public Health Research Assistant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about conducting research.

It’s about paving the path to a healthier society, one research study at a time.

With our reliable public health research assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every research study contributes to the broader health landscape.

Let’s shape a healthier future. Together.

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