Advance Prosthetic Innovation: Research Health Science Specialist at the Seattle VA
The Seattle VA Office of Research & Development is looking for a dedicated and skilled Research Health Science Specialist. If you are passionate about prosthetic technology and clinical research, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity to work within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This role is a Without Compensation (WOC) appointment, designed for individuals looking to gain significant research experience while contributing to a mission-driven organization.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be on the front lines of prosthetic development. Your primary duties include:
- Bench Testing: Conducting rigorous tests on prosthetic devices using advanced materials testing instruments.
- Design & Fabrication: Creating fixtures for research using machine shop tools.
- Clinical Research: Overseeing tests with human subjects and operating gait laboratory equipment.
- Data Management: Collecting, processing, and interpreting data, as well as developing custom software for visualization.
- Dissemination: Participating in the creation of conference abstracts and peer-reviewed journals.
Core Competencies Comparison
| Skill Category | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Technical | Hardware, Sensors, & Electronics |
| Research | Human Subjects, Data Ethics |
| Communication | Writing Manuscripts, Conference Presentations |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and clear a background check. You must demonstrate relevant experience or hold a degree in health sciences, allied sciences, or related fields. Additionally, all VA personnel must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary Overview
This position is designated as Without Compensation (WOC). It is an excellent opportunity for students, post-docs, or professionals seeking to bolster their research credentials in a clinical environment.
Benefits
While unpaid, this role provides significant professional benefits, including:
- Hands-on experience with cutting-edge medical hardware.
- Networking with leading federal scientists and clinicians.
- The opportunity to co-author professional research publications.
Application Tips
To succeed in your application, ensure your resume is concise and limited to two pages. Focus on demonstrating your technical skills rather than just listing job titles. Use the USAJOBS resume builder for the best results.
Join us at the Seattle VA and make a tangible difference in the lives of our Veterans. Apply today to start your journey in clinical research.
Why This Research Health Science Specialist Job Matters
Advance the future of prosthetic innovation with the Seattle VA—join a dedicated research team focused on improving the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Research Health Science Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a passionate Research Health Science Specialist to join the VISN 20 Seattle VA Office of Research & Development. This unique opportunity allows you to contribute directly to life-changing prosthetic research. Please note that this is a Without Compensation (WOC) position, offering a meaningful way to gain high-level experience in clinical research and data analysis within a world-class federal healthcare environment.
Requirements for Research Health Science Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Ability to complete an online onboarding process
- Must possess relevant education (Bachelor's or graduate degree in health/allied sciences) or equivalent experience
Preferred Qualifications for Research Health Science Specialist
- Experience in data acquisition and hardware/electronics interfacing
- Proficiency in gait laboratory instrumentation
- Demonstrated ability to write and interpret research data for publication
- Familiarity with fabrication tools for prosthetic fixture design
- Strong technical writing and oral communication skills
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers in the field of prosthetics
- ✓Contribution to meaningful Veteran-centered healthcare research
- ✓Access to VA research facilities and specialized instrumentation
- ✓Professional development through peer-reviewed manuscript submission and conference presentations
💡 How to Apply Research Health Science Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Research Health Science Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a concise resume, strictly limited to two pages.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including transcripts and any relevant certifications.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 4, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit to ensure your application remains eligible.
- Highlight specific, recent experience that demonstrates your ability to perform bench tests or handle research data.
- Use the PDF format for your resume to preserve formatting and page counts.
- Clearly list any relevant education and ensure you have transcripts ready.
- Review your application status frequently through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a paid position?
No, this is a Without Compensation (WOC) position, meaning it is a volunteer role focused on professional development and research contributions.
What is the duration of this appointment?
This position is listed for a term of 3 years.
Are there specific resume requirements?
Yes, federal regulations now mandate that resumes for this position be no longer than two pages. Exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
What is a WOC position?
WOC stands for Without Compensation, meaning it is a volunteer professional role.
Is there an age limit for this job?
You must be able to meet federal security clearance requirements.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Our research department works tirelessly to develop advanced solutions for Veteran health, particularly in the fields of prosthetic limbs and rehabilitative technology.