PhD Student/Research Assistant in Biomechanics and Movement Science for Arthritis Research University of Delaware in United States

The Delaware ACTIVE Lab at the University of Delaware is recruiting a PhD Student/Research Assistant to support the Observational Arthritis Foundation Internet Study (OASIS), which investigates real-world physical activity, pain, and function in adults with arthritis. This opportunity is ideal for licensed physical therapists interested in pursuing a PhD in the Biomechanics and Movement Science (BIOMS) Program. The position offers hands-on experience in clinical research, data management, and patient-centered outcomes, with mentorship from Dr. Daniel White and a clear pathway toward doctoral training.

Responsibilities include recruiting and consenting study participants, conducting virtual and in-person data collection (including physical assessments and digital surveys), managing longitudinal study data using secure systems, developing and refining data collection protocols, communicating with participants and collaborators, contributing to data quality assurance and preliminary analysis, supporting preparation of presentations and manuscripts, and participating in regular lab meetings.

Required qualifications are a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree or equivalent, current physical therapy license or eligibility for licensure in the U.S., strong interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and interest in musculoskeletal health, arthritis, physical activity, and patient outcomes research. Preferred qualifications include experience with human subjects research or clinical data collection, familiarity with REDCap, Qualtrics, or other data management systems, prior exposure to biomechanics, physical activity monitoring, or behavioral science research, and intention to apply for the BIOMS PhD program.

The position is full-time, with a flexible start date anticipated for Spring–Summer 2026, and is located at the University of Delaware, Newark, DE. Duration is 1–2 years, with potential transition to the BIOMS PhD program. Salary is commensurate with experience and University guidelines. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter describing research interests and career goals, a current CV, and contact information for two references to Dr. Daniel White at [email protected].