SHARP Scholar

Heluna Health invites applications for the position of Summer HIV/AIDS Research Program (SHARP) Scholar within the Center for Learning & Innovation in the San Francisco Department of Public Health. The Center for Learning & Innovation is a branch within the Population Health Division that is committed to training future public health professionals. In Summer 2026, SHARP will welcome a cohort of six scholars into its program. Each of these scholars will conduct a focused research project under the mentorship of experienced faculty and will work in pairs with mentors. Scholars will also attend a series of weekly seminars on topics including research design and methods, promising HIV prevention approaches, and possible research careers. Scholars will also have opportunities to shadow clinical trial and community outreach staff members, attend community consultations on research, and participate in social and networking events. After completing the program, scholars will be encouraged to continue interacting with each other and future cohorts through the SHARP portal, a social media and learning website. This is a temporary, grant-funded, full time, benefitted position. Employment is provided by Heluna Health. Pay rate: $20.50 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Research Project Collect and analyze data relevant to the prevention of HIV in severely affected communities Present findings at the SHARP Symposium Prepare an abstract to be submitted for presentation at other research seminars or conferences Training Engage in one-on-one mentorship related to the selected project Participate in weekly seminars with other SHARP Scholars Complete e-Learning activities through the SHARP portal Shadow clinical and community outreach staff Collaboration Attend regular mentoring, team and all-staff meetings Participate in networking events with other scholars and faculty Contribute actively to a cohesive team environment JOB QUALIFICATIONS Legally eligible to work in the U.S. Education/Experience In good academic standing during the preceding academic year Enrolled in an undergraduate, post baccalaureate, or certificate program at a U.S. accredited college or university or have recently graduated from college/university (less than two years since graduation) Work, volunteer, or life experience working with communities that are highly affected by HIV or other diseases/health issues Experience and/or coursework in research methods such as focus groups, surveys, statistics, and program evaluations is a plus Knowledge/Skills Knowledge of and sensitivity to issues related to HIV prevention, HIV care, and stigma and discrimination faced by persons living and affected by HIV Excellent verbal and written communication skills Demonstrated ability both to take individual initiative and to collaborate effectively on teams PHYSICAL DEMANDS Stand Frequently Walk Frequently Sit Frequently Handling / Fingering Occasionally Reach Outward Occasionally Reach Above Shoulder Occasionally Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend Occasionally Lift / Carry Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs Push/Pull Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs See Constantly Taste/ Smell Not Applicable Not Applicable Not required for essential functions Occasionally (0 - 2 hrs/day) Frequently (2 - 5 hrs/day) Constantly (5+ hrs/day) WORK ENVIRONMENT General Office Setting, Indoors Temperature Controlled Heluna Health is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages minorities, women, veterans, and disabled to apply. All qualified applicants will be considered for this position in accordance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance EEOC STATEMENT It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.