About this role
Research Compliance Specialist I
Position Description: Performs routine compliance activities related to research compliance, including human subjects, animal care, conflict of interest and/or export control. This position is reserved for use in departments that have institutional oversight of research. Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all employees.
Major/Essential Functions: 1. Regulatory Compliance and Protocol Review Develops and maintains a working knowledge of federal regulations, state requirements, institutional policies, and guidance applicable to human subject research. Applies established requirements and HRPP procedures to conduct administrative and regulatory pre-review of human subject research submissions and identifies missing information, inconsistencies, and routine compliance concerns during IRB review.
2. IRB and HRPP Operations Supports the day-to-day operations of the Human Research Protection Program and Institutional Review Board (IRB), including processing submissions: initials, modifications, renewals, incidents, withdrawals, and study closures. Assists with IRB meeting preparation and participates in IRB meetings, HRPP staff meetings, and professional development activities. Contributes to efforts to improve the efficiency, consistency, and quality of HRPP processes and services.
3. Researcher Support and Communication Serves as a resource to researchers, students, and research staff regarding human subject research requirements and HRPP processes. Communicates with researchers regarding submission status, required revisions, study expiration, renewals, incidents, approvals, and other regulatory or administrative matters, referring complex questions to appropriate HRPP personnel.
4. Electronic Systems, Records, Data Management, and Reporting Facilitates user access and assists researchers with navigating Cayuse Human Ethics and other electronic systems used for human research oversight. Creates, maintains, and accurately enters information related to IRB submissions, reviews, communications, and outreach. Maintains complete and accurate regulatory and administrative records, generates routine reports, reviews data for accuracy, identifies discrepancies, and assists with maintaining reliable data to support HRPP operations and reporting requirements.
5. Compliance Coordination, Education, and Outreach Serves as a liaison with applicable compliance divisions and the Office of Research Services on routine matters involving human subject research. Assists in developing, maintaining, and distributing educational and communication materials for researchers, students, community members, research participants, and IRB reviewers and supports HRPP education and outreach activities.
6. Professional Development and Continuous Improvement Participates in training, professional development, and continuing education to expand knowledge of human subject research protections and emerging regulatory requirements. Works toward attainment of Certified IRB Professional (CIP) certification.
This position is required to be on-campus at Texas Tech. This position is subject to a one-year provisional period.
Preferred Qualifications: • Working knowledge of or ability to learn and apply federal research regulations and ethical principles applicable to human participant research, including 45 CFR 46, 21 CFR Parts 50 and 56, the HIPAA Privacy Rule, FERPA, and the Belmont Report. • Ability to learn, analyze, and apply regulatory requirements and HRPP procedures with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to recognize routine compliance issues and seek guidance when matters require additional expertise or judgment. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively to complete assigned responsibilities, meet established deadlines, and contribute to the effective operation of the HRPP. • Ability to establish and maintain professional and respectful working relationships with researchers, students, staff, IRB members, and colleagues across academic and administrative units. • Commitment to professional development and willingness to pursue training and professional credentials relevant to human research protections, including the Certified IRB Professional (CIP) credential as appropriate.
Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in job related field plus one year of related experience; OR a combination of related education and or experience equal to five years.
About the Department and/or College: Texas Tech University is committed to protecting the rights and welfare of individuals participating in research. Texas Tech's Institutional Review Board (IRB) is charged with reviewing all human subjects research in accordance with federal regulations (45 CFR 46), state laws, and Texas Tech policies (TTU OP 74.09). HRPP supports the institution in promoting ethical conduct of human subject research and educates Texas Tech faculty, staff, and students regarding compliance and ethics. HRPP supports the IRB and maintains all IRB records including meeting agendas and minutes, policies, regulations, reference materials, and IRB protocols. HRPP provides research support through IRB development, web-based IRB submission, reliance agreements, and post approval monitoring.
Safety Information: Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.
Pay Statement: Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan.
EEO Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.
About the University: Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University began with a mission to serve the needs of West Texas, but its impact has always reached far beyond. Today, Texas Tech, located in Lubbock (pop. 300,000+), is home to a vibrant community of more than 42,000 students.Texas Tech's 1,800-acre campus showcases Spanish Renaissance architecture and is home to one of the country's largest public art collections. Its 13 colleges include a prestigious School of Law and a distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields. Built on the values of West Texas — hard work, grit and authenticity — the university graduates students who are deeply engaged in service to their communities and well-positioned to succeed in the world. Texas Tech is committed to achieving research and scholarly accomplishments that compare favorably to the member institutions of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For more than 100 years, Texas Tech has been a premier destination for those seeking a world-class education and a unique, personalized experience as a member of the Red Raider family.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with the ability to carefully review, compare, contrast, and quality-check information, identify discrepancies or missing information, and follow established procedures. • Ability to sustain intensive reading, concentration, and focused attention for extended periods, including the ability to maintain accuracy and productivity while reviewing detailed protocols, regulatory documents, and supporting materials throughout the workday. • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic systems, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and reporting tools. Ability to learn and effectively navigate electronic research administration and online submission systems. • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple assignments, establish priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records. • Effective written, verbal, interpersonal, and customer service skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally with researchers, students, staff, IRB members, and other stakeholders. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling research protocols, regulatory records, and other sensitive information. • Ability to work collaboratively and professionally in a shared office environment, demonstrating respect, courtesy, and consideration for colleagues while maintaining focus, productivity, and professionalism.