Advance Medical Research at the Buffalo VA: Program Specialist - Research Coordinator

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of support for those who have served our country. If you are a detail-oriented professional with a background in project management and research, we invite you to contribute to the Million Veteran Program (MVP) in Buffalo, New York. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of medical research and public service.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Specialist (Research Coordinator), your primary responsibilities will include:

Overseeing the daily operations of the Million Veteran Program.
Managing participant recruitment, consenting, and record-keeping.
Coordinating the collection and shipment of sensitive biological specimens.
Developing and implementing public relations strategies to increase program outreach.
Collaborating with the Coordinating Center to ensure compliance with research protocols.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level or equivalent, or a relevant Master's degree.
Assessment: Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
Conduct: Successful completion of a background and security investigation.

Qualifications Comparison

Qualification Type	Requirement
Specialized Experience	1 Year at GS-7 or equivalent
Education	Master’s degree or 2 years of graduate study
Combination	Possible to combine education and experience

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $64,543 to $83,911 per year. Employees also benefit from generous federal leave programs and the ability to balance their professional duties with personal life commitments.

Application Tips

Limit your resume: As of September 2025, resumes must not exceed two pages. Use the USAJOBS builder to keep it concise.
Document everything: Be explicit about your duties, hours worked, and specific milestones achieved in your previous roles.
Formatting: Upload your document as a PDF to ensure formatting remains clean and readable for recruiters.

Serving the Veteran community is a rewarding endeavor. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle complex research coordination challenges in Buffalo, we encourage you to apply by the September 9, 2026 deadline. Join us in making a difference for those who have given so much.

Why This Program Specialist - Research Coordinator Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who served our country by coordinating life-changing research at the Veterans Affairs Buffalo Medical Center.

Program Specialist - Research Coordinator Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Program Specialist to support the Million Veteran Program (MVP) in Buffalo, New York. This temporary position plays a vital role in advancing medical research by managing participant outreach, data collection, and day-to-day operations for one of the most significant research initiatives in the VA.

Requirements for Program Specialist - Research Coordinator

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level in federal service.
Experience in research investigatory processes, data compilation, and project management.
Completion of an online assessment.
Must pass a background and security investigation.
Must be willing to work on-site in Buffalo, NY.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
Ability to adhere to seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist - Research Coordinator

Possession of a Master's or equivalent graduate degree related to the position.
Proven experience in managing project milestones, risks, and research protocols.
Strong interpersonal skills for effective Veteran outreach and public relations.
Proficiency in maintaining clinical records and managing specimen shipment processes.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health insurance options for eligible employees.
✓Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling opportunities.
✓A meaningful career dedicated to supporting Veterans.
✓Professional development through integration with the Cooperative Studies Program.

💡 How to Apply Program Specialist - Research Coordinator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Specialist - Research Coordinator Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages and is focused on relevant research experience.
Complete the online application and questionnaire by the closing date.
Check your email for an invitation to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment system if required.
Submit all required documents, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit.
Be specific about your hours worked per week; full-time is considered 35-40 hours.
Proofread your application to ensure your month and year start/end dates are clearly listed for every job.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Do not assume the recruiter knows your background—list all duties clearly and concisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a temporary appointment not to exceed 9/30/2027, though it may be renewed for one additional year based on agency needs.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is not a virtual position. You must be able to commute to the Buffalo, New York VA Medical Center.

What is the focus of this role?

The role centers on the Million Veteran Program (MVP), involving participant enrollment, blood specimen coordination, and outreach strategies.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing world-class health care and conducting vital research. When you join the VA, you aren't just taking a job; you are joining a mission-driven community that values compassion, integrity, and the well-being of our nation's heroes.