Academic Nurse Scientist

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

The Academic Nurse Scientist advances the scholarly mission of St. John's College of Nursing by leading nursing research, evidence-based practice (EBP), and scholarly inquiry across undergraduate and graduate programs. This role bridges academia and clinical practice, advancing nursing science, EBP, and professional development by guiding scientific research and clinical studies in collaboration with Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) hospitals to improve outcomes and advance healthcare. The position contributes to the education of nursing students, supports research and scholarship among faculty and hospital nurses, and strengthens partnerships to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Doctoral degree (PhD, DNP, EdD, or equivalent) is required.

Candidates whose doctoral preparation is outside the field of nursing must also hold a master’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution.

5 years of academic or clinical research experience is required.

Record of peer-reviewed publications, grant activity, and scholarly presentations is required.

Experience with statistical software and data analysis for evidence-based decision-making is required. 

Experience and understanding of healthcare regulatory standards to ensure compliance in research activities is required. 

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice is required.

Certified Nurse Scientist credential is preferred. 

Certification in research methodology or data analysis is preferred. 

Demonstrates flexibility in responding to evolving educational needs, healthcare trends, and research priorities, with a sustained commitment to professional growth and advancement in nursing practice.

Applies critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making to teaching, research, and clinical practice, while effectively evaluating learning outcomes and research impact.

Exhibits strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills; fosters effective collaboration across interdisciplinary academic and clinical teams.

Provides guidance and support to students, faculty, and clinical nurses in professional development, scholarly inquiry, and leadership within the nursing profession.

Designs and facilitates engaging learning experiences that promote critical inquiry, active participation, and achievement of educational outcomes.

Integrates nursing concepts, theories, and clinical evidence to inform both instruction and research initiatives.

Utilizes educational technologies, electronic health records, and research management tools to enhance teaching, data analysis, and scholarly productivity.

Designs, implements, and updates nursing curricula to reflect current practices, research findings, and

healthcare trends. Integrate evidence-based practice and research into the curriculum to strengthen

academic-clinical linkages.

Evaluates and assesses student performance to ensure comprehension and competency. Engage students

through innovative teaching strategies and mentorship in research and professional practice.

Provides academic guidance and supports the development of students’ research and leadership skills

through individualized mentorship.

Conducts research in nursing, publish findings in academic journals, and contributes to the advancement

of nursing knowledge. Leads interdisciplinary and multi-site research initiatives within the College and

HSHS hospitals, including securing major internal and external grant funding to sustain research

programs.

Develops, manages, and reports on research grants. Identifies funding opportunities, writes and submits

competitive proposals, oversees budgets, ensures compliance with grant requirements, and disseminates

outcomes through scholarly channels.

Serves as a liaison and collaborator between the College and HSHS to promote research, quality

improvement, and professional development initiatives.

Engages in continuous learning and professional development to stay current with advancements in

nursing education and practice. Maintains scholarship through continuing education and professional

organizations.

Collaborates with healthcare organizations, participates in community outreach programs, and

contributes to the nursing profession through service and leadership roles. Partners with HSHS Nursing

Research and EBP Councils to translate research into practice and disseminate outcomes.

Promotes integrated learning experiences and enhances student education. Participates in

interdisciplinary research and system-wide initiatives to foster innovation and collaboration.

Promotes and advocates for the nursing profession, addressing issues related to healthcare policy,

education, and practice.

Engages in professional service activities that contribute to the academic community, the nursing

profession, and society. Represents the College and HSHS at conferences and professional organizations

to share scholarly work.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Abides by all safety requirements including demonstrating proper hand hygiene and wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable. 

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline. Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains ongoing communication and collaboration with team members. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Administrative

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

20 lbs.

Carrying

X

20 lbs.

Pushing

X

20 lbs.

Pulling

X

20 lbs.

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other