Research Scientist, Level 1

Role: Research Scientist, Level 1

Schedule: Full-time; Remote with benefits | 2 weeks PTO + federal holidays

Payment: $85,000

Start Date: Immediate

About Fit Minded

Fit Minded is a strategic applied science firm for digital health companies, integrating scientific research with business strategy to drive growth, boost revenue, and build credibility. We work with clients at every stage, some starting from scratch, others scaling existing research, helping them turn science into competitive advantage. Our team is composed of experienced scientists who thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments where research directly influences product decisions, funding rounds, and company trajectories. Learn more at fit-minded.com

The Work Environment

This isn't an academic research role, but it's not a standard industry role either. You will work across a number of clients simultaneously, each at different stages of scientific maturity, each in different areas of digital health, each with distinct business priorities. Nothing is cut-and-paste here. Every client requires you to learn their product, understand their competitive landscape, and translate their business goals into rigorous science. You will context-switch constantly and you're expected to get up to speed quickly without sacrificing scientific rigor.

This role is rooted in our values—Courageous Ownership, Balanced Excellence, Fearless Innovation and Clear & Accountable. You’ll be expected to take initiative, make thoughtful judgment calls, and move work forward even when things aren’t fully defined. We value proactive, ongoing communication and trust you to problem-solve first, then share your approach. You’ll also be navigating shifting priorities in a fast-moving environment, so adaptability, curiosity, and comfort with variety are key. If you’re energized by that kind of pace and want your work to directly shape how multiple companies grow, you’ll likely thrive here.

The Position

We are seeking a Research Scientist (Level 1) with a clear path to Level 2 within 1 year. You will work alongside our Level 2 and Level 3 Research Scientists on client projects, learning our proprietary needs assessment and science map process while gradually taking on more client-facing responsibilities. At Level 2, you will work independently with clients, directly influencing product development and contributing to innovation in digital health.

This is a mutual investment. We provide proprietary methodology, advanced training, and a clear advancement pathway. In return, we're looking for someone committed to building their career with Fit Minded long-term.

How You'll Contribute

As a Level 1 Research Scientist, your core responsibilities include:

• Design and conduct research studies from literature review and conceptualization through IRB submission, data analysis, and interpretation under the guidance of Level 2 & 3 Research Scientists. You will be expected to take direction, apply it independently, and communicate progress without being prompted.
• Develop statistical analysis plans matched to research questions; implement and document analyses using R, SPSS, or similar tools. When you encounter methodological decisions (e.g., covariate selection), you will use available resources to make informed choices and document your reasoning.
• Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific presentations, white papers, or reports. This includes using templates correctly, meeting deadlines, and coordinating with team members on their sections without needing reminders.
• Assist Level 2 and Level 3 Research Scientists with client projects, learning to apply our needs assessment and science map methodology. You will be expected to problem-solve when instructions are incomplete and communicate your approach.
• Collaborate with lead scientists on research aligned with broader strategic goals, contributing to proposals, publications, and innovation initiatives. Collaboration here means proactive communication, not waiting to be asked for updates.
• Participate in grant development (e.g., NIH) and team meetings, contributing ideas that enhance study design, rigor, and relevance.
• Progress toward independent client engagement, including attending meetings and leading project components as you advance toward Level 2.

We need someone who:

• Communicates proactively (e.g., end-of-day updates on what you're tackling next, flagging blockers before they become problems)
• Takes initiative when problem-solving (tries multiple approaches, uses resources, doesn't freeze when something is unclear)
• Moves fast without sacrificing quality (tight timelines are standard, not exceptions)
• Is socially aware and collaborative (you don't need to be extroverted, but you do need to read the room, coordinate effectively, and engage professionally with clients and teammates)

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD or Postdoc (preferred) in Behavioral Health, Clinical Psychology