Launch Your Research Career: Research Health Science Specialist at the VA

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of clinical research? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a unique, prestigious opportunity to serve as a Research Health Science Specialist in Baltimore, Maryland. This role is a Without Compensation (WOC) appointment, designed for individuals passionate about Veteran health and medical advancement.

Job Responsibilities

The Research Health Science Specialist is responsible for a variety of tasks that keep research projects running smoothly. You will be working at the intersection of administrative support and scientific advancement.

Key responsibilities include:

Project Coordination: Assisting lab members in the conduct and daily coordination of ongoing clinical studies.
Data Management: Capturing data using specialized software and maintaining accurate spreadsheets.
Regulatory Oversight: Facilitating compliance with administrative and regulatory requirements for research trials.
Research Support: Preparing materials for human study sample acquisition and aiding in laboratory upkeep.
Modeling: Developing statistical and finite element models to support project goals.

Comparison Table: Paid vs. WOC Research Roles

Feature	Typical Paid Research Role	Without Compensation (WOC)
Salary	Competitive Federal Pay	No Compensation
Benefits	Federal Health/Retirement	None
Experience	Professional Employment	Portfolio/Resume Building
Network	Agency Exposure	Agency Exposure

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date:

Education: A Bachelor's or graduate degree in a medical or health-related field from an accredited institution.
Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is generally required.
Documentation: A resume (maximum 2 pages) and academic transcripts.
Background: Successful completion of a background investigation.

Salary Overview

This position is categorized as Without Compensation (WOC). It does not provide a salary, nor are there federal benefits, retirement, or insurance packages attached to the role.

Benefits

While this role is unpaid, the benefits for your career are substantial. You will gain direct, hands-on experience in a federal medical facility, obtain specialized training in research compliance, and build a professional network within the VA research community that is highly respected in the scientific industry.

Application Tips

Keep it Brief: The VA now adheres to a strict two-page limit for resumes. Prioritize your most relevant skills.
Verify Your Transcripts: Ensure your education is from an accredited body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Use the Right Font: Professionalism matters. Use standard fonts like Lato or Arial.
Save as PDF: To avoid formatting errors, always save your resume as a PDF before uploading.

If you are a student, a career-changer, or a researcher looking to give back to the Veteran community, the Research Health Science Specialist role in Baltimore is an unparalleled opportunity. Apply today and start your journey with the VA.

Why This Research Health Science Specialist Job Matters

Contribute to cutting-edge research while honoring our nation's heroes. This Without Compensation (WOC) role at the VA is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience in a high-impact medical research environment.

Research Health Science Specialist Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Research Health Science Specialist to join the Office of Research and Development in Baltimore, Maryland. This role is a Without Compensation (WOC) position, offering a prestigious opportunity to support Veteran-centered research initiatives. You will play a vital role in data collection, regulatory compliance, and administrative coordination, directly contributing to projects that enhance the quality of care for Veterans.

Requirements for Research Health Science Specialist

U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens appointed only when qualified citizens are unavailable).
Bachelor’s or graduate degree in a field related to medical or health sciences.
Ability to complete an online background and security investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Submission of a resume limited to two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Research Health Science Specialist

Experience in coordinating research trials and managing project timelines.
Proficiency in developing research policies, guidelines, and procedures.
Expertise in data collection and management using database software.
Ability to train and mentor student assistants or interns.
Demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance within a clinical or laboratory setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Professional development through hands-on involvement in clinical trials.
✓Networking opportunities with experts in the Department of Veterans Affairs.
✓Valuable experience for future federal or medical career paths.
✓Contribution to national research missions for Veteran healthcare.

💡 How to Apply Research Health Science Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Research Health Science Specialist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Gather your academic transcripts and any applicable veteran preference documentation.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire provided in the job announcement link.
Upload all required documents and submit your application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting remains consistent during upload.
Tailor your resume language to match the specific skills mentioned in the job post.
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Double-check that your transcripts are attached, as this is a strict requirement for educational eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 'Without Compensation' (WOC) position mean?

A WOC position means that the role is unpaid. It is designed for individuals seeking to gain research experience, build their professional portfolio, or contribute to the VA mission while volunteering their time.

Are there any benefits provided for this role?

Because this is a Without Compensation position, there are no federal benefits (such as health insurance or retirement packages) associated with this role.

Is the seasonal flu shot mandatory?

Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel, including WOC researchers.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA), under the Office of Research and Development (ORD), is the premier research arm of the VA. The agency is dedicated to promoting Veteran-centered care, improving health outcomes, and fostering a culture of integrity and excellence. By joining this team, you become part of an elite group committed to the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.