This position coordinates and manages the implementation of research-focused initiatives and associated research programming between the University of Tennessee (UT) and River Valley Health (RVH [formerly Cherokee Health Systems)] for three CEHHS faculty members that are part of a cluster hire initiative to partner with RVH. The Research Project Coordinator will collaborate with CEHHS faculty and RVH staff to design, implement, and manage research projects that align with strategic goals in the relationship between UT and RVH in health promotion. Key focus areas include physical activity, nutrition, and public health.

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This position coordinates and manages the implementation of research-focused initiatives and associated research programming between the University of Tennessee (UT) and River Valley Health (RVH [formerly Cherokee Health Systems)] for three CEHHS faculty members that are part of a cluster hire initiative to partner with RVH. The Research Project Coordinator will collaborate with CEHHS faculty and RVH staff to design, implement, and manage research projects that align with strategic goals in the relationship between UT and RVH in health promotion. Key focus areas include physical activity, nutrition, and public health.

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Required Qualifications

• Education: Master’s Degree (In a health-related field or education field)

• Experience: Two years of experience in human subjects research, or ability to demonstrate equivalent type of experience/expertise. At least one year of supervisory experience.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Ability to communicate with faculty and community members in formal and informal situations with an enthusiasm for meeting new people and building relationships.

  • Ability to attend occasional weeknight and weekend community functions.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

  • Ability to develop and conduct training on program procedures, data management, research protocols and compliance issues.

  • Good communication skills with both superiors and direct reports

  • Proficiency in using REDCap for database management.

  • Understanding of ethical standards in research and university compliance policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience: Experience in preparing successful grant proposals. Prior experience working with community-based organizations or health systems.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Fluent in Spanish

  • Ability to work with diverse, economically challenged populations

  • Good leadership skills

  • Conflict resolution skills

Work Location

• Location: Knoxville, TN
• Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR08
• Anticipated hiring range:
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before 1/15/2026.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 3 Professional References

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Responsibilities

Research Project Management

• Coordinates multiple research projects aligned with the strategic vision of UT CIRCLE cluster faculty and RVH partners.
• Develops and implements research project plans, including timelines, milestones, deliverables, and resource allocation.
• Implements research protocols, monitors adherence to protocols, and takes action to correct problems such as deviation from protocol requirements.
• Manages and oversees regulatory and quality assessment and assurance, including IRB processes.
• Monitors data quality control to ensure adherence to study protocol and verifies the accuracy of research data.
• Provides work direction, training, and orientation to research staff; and supervises day-to-day work of research staff.
• Organize and attend weekly planning meetings with PIs.
• Performs study and site visits, behavioral interventions, interviews and tests, and data collection.

Research Development & Grant Management

• Identifies potential funding opportunities and assist in preparing grant proposals focused on health promotion and areas of need or opportunity identified by RVH partners.
• Prepares reports for stakeholders and funding agencies.

Partnership Development & Community Engagement

• Establishes and maintains contact with research participants from RVH and RVH staff who are part of research projects.
• Plan and manage monthly research meetings between UT researchers and RVH staff.
• Plan events to disseminate research findings and gather feedback for future initiatives.

Knowledge Dissemination & Reporting

• Assist in publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals or presenting at academic conferences focused on health promotion.
• Create accessible reports summarizing project outcomes for community stakeholders.
• Develop newsletters or other communication materials highlighting ongoing research between UT and RVH.