Within the UI Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, the Research Intern will assist in carrying out clinical research protocols. The Research Intern will work closely with Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) clinical research nurses and coordinators in patient recruitment and enrollment, data collection and monitoring, collection and processing of biological samples The successful applicant will work with the entire research team on all research protocols, which may include immune system development, sleep-related brain responses, and epigenetics in the neonatal population. The position is an excellent opportunity to gain active research experience and particularly well-suited for individuals who are preparing for graduate or medical school.

Position Responsibilities: 

• Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project.

• Utilize EPIC for screening of NICU census to determine subject eligibility for multiple studies.

• Recruit participants’ families by explaining studies and obtaining informed consent. 

• Enroll patients per protocol, ensuring that all prerequisites have been completed and are within the required parameters.

• Obtain biological samples from eligible & consented subjects by request.

• Abstract data from review of medical records for consented subjects.

• Attend daily team status meetings and provide updates as necessary.

• Communicate with research manager about the status of assigned tasks & projects.

• Follows universal precautions and general policies and procedures in accordance with NICU clinical guidelines.

• Opportunity to assist with data analysis and manuscript writing if desired.

• Bachelor's degree in science, public health, nursing or a related field.

• Ability to work well within a team and communicate effectively.


• Demonstrated excellence with organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Ability to work 40 hours per week, typically during the week but, when necessary, over the weekend or in evenings.


• Willingness to learn relevant lab protocols under supervision of the principal investigator and other research staff is required.

• Knowledge of IRB guidelines and research procedures.


• Undergraduate experience in research