Research Associate II - Orthopedics

Join the HJF Team!

Join the prestigious United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD as a Research Associate II, supporting the groundbreaking PREVAIL study. The PREVAIL study is a collaborative effort between the Naval Academy and West Point, aimed at predicting and preventing musculoskeletal injuries in cadets by integrating cutting-edge biomechanical, body composition, and psychometric assessments. The study leverages advanced technology, including markerless gait analysis and biomechanical testing platforms, to identify injury risk factors and develop innovative injury prevention strategies tailored to military training environments.

As part of this large, multidisciplinary research team, you will contribute to designing and executing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and advancing the understanding of injury mechanisms in high-performing military cadets. Your work will directly impact the health, safety, and readiness of future Navy leaders while being part of an integrated research ecosystem that combines expertise from two of the nation's premier military academies.

Living in Annapolis offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle, with access to historic landmarks, exceptional dining, and waterfront recreation. The Naval Academy's stunning campus is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay, offering a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic academic and research environment while enjoying a family-friendly community with proximity to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Perform biomechanical data collection and analysis using gait analysis systems, including Theia 3D and Qualisys cameras.
• Conduct biomechanical testing utilizing advanced systems such as MTS and Instron to evaluate tissue and material properties.
• Collaborate with scientific and technical staff to design, execute, and interpret research experiments focused on injury mechanisms and prevention.
• Train junior laboratory staff in laboratory techniques, processes, and the use of advanced biomechanical equipment.
• Document and maintain procedures for data collection, processing, and statistical estimation, ensuring compliance with research protocols.
• Organize and procure laboratory supplies and reagents to support ongoing research efforts.
• Assist in preparing data and research findings for presentations, reports, and publications.
• Participate in required training and contribute to team initiatives and additional projects as assigned.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.
  

Education and Experience

• Master's Degree in biomechanics, kinesiology, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of biomechanics, kinesiology, and laboratory research procedures.
• Familiarity with IRB and protocols.
• Proficiency in using gait analysis systems (e.g., Theia 3D, Qualisys) and biomechanical testing platforms (MTS, Instron) is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or R is a bonus.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills to meet research deadlines and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to document findings and contribute to technical reports and peer-reviewed publications.
• US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a T3/Secret Clearance.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a clinical setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $57,650 - $74,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.