Research Assistant II DOM Channing

Mass General Brigham - Boston, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Boston, MA

Ambulatory Health Care Services

About the position

The Research Assistant II will play a crucial role in the recruitment and testing of subjects for various studies focused on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly the COPDGene Study. This multi-center observational study involves over 10,000 smokers, both with and without COPD, aiming to identify subtypes of COPD and the genetic influences associated with the disease. The RA will be responsible for participant recruitment, scheduling visits, ensuring quality control, and managing data throughout the study. The role requires the RA to follow specific protocols to collect data in diverse environments, including in-hospital visits and occasional travel to participants' homes. Additionally, the RA will assist in training and supporting other technicians involved in the study. The RA will collaborate closely with faculty members to implement new protocols and data collection tools, ensuring the efficient flow and quality control of data during both the collection and analysis phases. This position requires a high level of professionalism and integrity, as the RA will interact with study participants and various healthcare providers. The RA will also maintain organized records of all study procedures and ensure compliance with established department policies and regulatory requirements. This role is essential for the successful execution of the COPD studies and will contribute significantly to the understanding of COPD and its impacts.

Responsibilities

• Recruit study participants through personal interviews and phone calls.
• Facilitate the review of medical records for participants and enroll subjects independently.
• Maintain organized hard and electronic copies of forms and ensure quality control of all data collected.
• Document all study procedures to maintain accurate records of study conduct.
• Work with the lab supervisor in processing and managing collected specimens.
• Confirm results from outside labs and update the database accordingly.
• Communicate with various providers to implement study-specific procedures.
• Maintain communications with study sponsors and outside vendors, including on-site meetings and monitoring visits.
• Perform data entry of questionnaires and manage data using computer programs like REDCAP and ACCESS.
• Complete study protocols independently, including administering questionnaires and collecting blood samples.
• Coordinate reimbursement for study participants.
• Maintain established department policies and perform all other duties as directed.
• Track and report current recruiting and enrollment estimates to principal investigators.
• Oversee the use of project funds, equipment, and supplies, and make recommendations for purchases.
• Maintain and track IRB submissions and other regulatory documents.

Requirements

• BS/BA degree in biological, physical, or social science required.
• At least one year of research experience in clinical trials or epidemiological studies is required; 3-5 years preferred.
• 1-2 years of experience with computers, including word processing, spreadsheet applications, and database management.
• Must be computer proficient, with experience in database management and Microsoft Office preferred.
• Phlebotomy experience preferred.
• High level of professionalism and integrity, with solid judgment in a non-supervised setting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to coordinate activities of others.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to set priorities.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in database management and Microsoft Office preferred.
• Phlebotomy experience preferred.