OPS Temporary Research Physical Therapist

Position Summary The University of South Florida is seeking a licensed Research Physical Therapist to support a multi-site, DoD-funded clinical research study (IM ABLE 2) investigating the long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness of conventional versus advanced (energy-storing-and-returning) ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for individuals with lower extremity trauma. This is a paid, hourly contract position with a flexible schedule based on participant visit scheduling and study enrollment needs. The Research Physical Therapist will work closely with the Principal Investigators, study orthotist, research coordinators, and multi-site study team (USF, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital – Tampa, and VA New York Harbor Healthcare System) to deliver study-specific orthotic training and complete standardized functional outcome assessments for enrolled participants. **About the Study** This study builds on the completed IM ABLE study (DOD Award #W81XWH-16-1-0738) and addresses a critical gap in the orthotics literature: whether advanced, custom carbon-fiber AFOs offer meaningful long-term benefit over conventional AFO designs. Participants (Veterans and Service Members with lower extremity trauma) will be fit with both AFO categories, complete a structured accommodation and training period, undergo functional and patient-reported outcome testing, and be followed for approximately 14 months to assess device utilization, function, pain, and preference in real-world community settings. ### Responsibilities **Key Responsibilities** - Provide structured, study-protocol orthotic training to participants transitioning to a conventional or advanced AFO, consistent with the DoD Return to Run / Functional Mobility Program framework (e.g., gait training, walking at varied speeds, obstacle navigation, stair ascent/descent, uneven terrain, light-to-moderate jogging as appropriate). - Deliver up to six training sessions per device category, per participant, over the three-week accommodation period, and determine when a participant has achieved functional independence with each device. - Administer standardized functional and performance outcome measures with other study team members at each required study time point, including the Two-Minute Walk Test (2MWT), Timed Up & Go (TUG), Four-Square-Step-Test, and 40-Yard Dash (for eligible high-functioning participants). - Complete required study documentation, including Physical Therapist Training Checklists, in accordance with study protocol and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. - Collaborate with the study orthotist and site Principal Investigator on device-fit concerns, safety observations, and participant readiness for independent device use. - Communicate participant safety concerns, adverse events, or protocol deviations promptly to the site PI and study team. - Maintain accurate, timely source documentation and data entry in study case report forms / electronic data capture systems, safeguarding participant confidentiality and PHI at all times. - Participate in study team meetings, training on the study protocol, and periodic multi-site communications (e.g., monthly video conferences) as needed. - Support coordination of participant visit scheduling with the research coordinator to align training and assessment sessions with the study timeline. ### Qualifications **Minimum Qualifications:** - A Bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, or physics; and a graduate from a physical therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. - Requires Florida State Licensure as a Physical Therapist. - Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree. • Senate Bill 1310- The Florida Senate (https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/1310) is conditional upon meeting all employment eligibility requirements in the U.S. • SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Educat…