Research Speech Language Pathologist (20 hrs/wk)

The Research Speech Pathologist will lead the implementation of two interconnected studies focused on vocal hyperfunction. The first study investigates physical, acoustic, and behavioral factors to enhance the detection and phenotyping of vocal hyperfunction, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and assessments. The second study evaluates the efficacy of ambulatory biofeedback in improving behavioral interventions for vocal hyperfunction. The Research Speech Pathologist will oversee all aspects of study execution, including, but not limited to, screening and recruiting participants, conducting specialized speech and voice evaluations, collecting and analyzing clinical and research data, ensuring compliance with IRB and regulatory requirements, developing and updating study protocols and materials, presenting findings at research meetings, and collaborating with interdisciplinary administrative, clinical, and research teams at Boston Medical Center and Mass General Brigham. The position will report to principal investigator of the of two interconnected grants

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Speech Pathologist will lead the implementation of two interconnected studies focused on vocal hyperfunction. The first study investigates physical, acoustic, and behavioral factors to enhance the detection and phenotyping of vocal hyperfunction, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and assessments. The second study evaluates the efficacy of ambulatory biofeedback in improving behavioral interventions for vocal hyperfunction. The Research Speech Pathologist will oversee all aspects of study execution, including, but not limited to, screening and recruiting participants, conducting specialized speech and voice evaluations, collecting and analyzing clinical and research data, ensuring compliance with IRB and regulatory requirements, developing and updating study protocols and materials, presenting findings at research meetings, and collaborating with interdisciplinary administrative, clinical, and research teams at Boston Medical Center and Mass General Brigham. The position will report to principal investigator of the of two interconnected grants.

Position: Research Speech Language Pathologist        

Department: Otolaryngology Administration

Schedule: Part Time (20 hrs)

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

• Conducts speech-language pathology evaluation procedures according to professional and departmental guidelines.          
• Perform laryngeal endoscopies and administer experimental voice therapy as part of IRB-approved protocols.
• Administers evaluation procedures according to the guidelines of speech-language pathology; adapts evaluation procedures as indicated to accommodate the specific needs of patients. Interprets evaluation results, develops an integrated diagnostic impression, and makes recommendations.
• Analyze information and data collected from subjects enrolled in IRB-approved research protocols including background information and using commercial and custom-designed signal processing software to extract measures from recordings of acoustic, aerodynamic, endoscopic, and other physiologic sensors (e.g., accelerometer). 
• Enter all extracted measures in a standard database with quality checks to ensure accuracy.
• Perform prescribed statistical analyses of measures under the direction of the research director, senior research staff and/or assigned statisticians/statistical consultants. 
• Take the lead and/or participate in drafting and editing progress reports, manuscripts, and presentations based on the research projects.
• Obtain and maintain knowledge needed to ensure adherence with all research regulatory and safety requirements including: 1) applying for and maintaining approvals for studies involving human and animals, 2) identifying and following all regulatory codes and operational directions governing the operation and maintenance of electrical, electronic and other equipment used during the work conducted on all projects, 3) working safely with all equipment, using personal protective equipment properly; also works safely within research laboratory conditions.
• Stays current with advances in speech-language pathology treatments and techniques through attendance of professional meetings, continuing education, and reading of current literature.
• Complies with departmental, institutional, and accrediting agency policies and standards
• Completes area specific documentation (including letters, re-evaluations) in an accurate thorough and timely manner according to department standards. Issues supplies/adaptive equipment in a cost-effective manner. Justifies issuance of equipment, demonstrates actual use by patient. Looks for alternative solutions. Completes patient care charges accurately. Charges for all equipment issued. Meets area specific productivity standards. Identifies problems and makes adjustments to meet targeted productivity. Participates in the peer review process. Completes form thoroughly, gives meaningful and constructive feedback, and provides learning experience to peer. Completes mandatory requirements (including PPD, competencies, and safety/infection control tests, CPR, and license renewal) within the required time frame. Follows all isolation and infection guidelines and dons/doffs personal protective equipment appropriately.
• Initiates independent learning opportunities, seeks out and integrates new information in daily practice. Communicates learning needs to supervisor. Stays current with advances in speech-language pathology treatments and techniques through attendance of professional meetings, continuing education, and reading of current literature.
• Serves as clinical resource for other health care professionals on assigned floors. Works as part of the rehabilitation therapy team, helping and supporting staff members        as needed; listens to and seeks feedback from others; shares knowledge with others in positive manner; expresses opinions clearly. Accommodates to change by being adaptable and flexible and maintains professional demeanor during periods of stress. Assumes a leadership role and takes charge in difficult situations. Attends and participates in all mandatory department meetings.  Arrives prepared and on time. Accepts and completes additional assignments as requested by supervisor, including membership in department and hospital task forces and committees. Provides at least on evidence-based area in-service annually. Provides in-services to other hospital personnel as requested. Prepares for a verbal presentation using peer-reviewed journals and presents this information in a clear, organized, and concise manner. Participates responsibly in the supervisory process, follows through on suggestions and recommendations, and utilizes supervision time for own professional growth. Comes prepared to supervisory meets. Develops and meets annual goals with a high quality of performance.
• Utilizes hospital's Values as the basis for decision-making and to facilitate the division's hospital mission. Follows established hospital infection control and safety procedures

(The above statements in this job description are intended to depict the general nature and level of work assigned to the employee(s) in this job.  The above is not intended to represent an exhaustive list of accountable duties and responsibilities required).

JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:

Work requires a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders from an accredited institution.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED: Has a current license or ability to obtain a license as required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. ASHA membership preferred.

Work requires a current CPR certification.

EXPERIENCE:

Acute care experience is preferred. Experience with instrumental evaluations of swallowing (FEES, MBS) is strongly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Work requires interpersonal skills necessary to effectively interact with patients, families and various members of the health care team.

Work requires analytical abilities sufficient to evaluate patients’ condition, capabilities and progress to develop appropriate treatment programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans

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