Genetic Counseling Assistant

Genetic Counseling Assistant

The Eleanor and Lou Gehrig ALS Center at Columbia University is seeking a full-time Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA). Reporting to the Center's Clinical Genetic Counselor and Sr. Manager, Translational Research, the GCA will support the Center's genetic research projects in various clinical and clinical research-related responsibilities. This role will provide invaluable experience for individuals who intend to apply for graduate programs in clinical genetics and genetic counseling, for individuals interested in administrative management, or for individuals hoping to gain skills in genetics-focused research. Genetics expertise is not a prerequisite for this position, as there will be many opportunities for genetic learning and continuing education.

Responsibilities

• Support PREVENT ALL ALS, ALS Families Project, Silence ALS and other observational clinical research studies by reviewing and responding to participant or referring physicians' questions and inquiries
• Prepare for research visits by collecting and reviewing relevant medical records and lab reports, as well as participant family histories, and ensuring that these records are provided to the study team in advance of the research visit
• Provide reminder phone calls and/or emails for upcoming research participant appointments to participants and the study team
• Process, package, and ship specimens for genetic testing in a timely manner
• Schedule clinical genetic counseling appointments for ALS patients
• Assist management of clinical genetic testing workflow alongside Genetic Counselor and physicians
• Complete comprehensive chart review for current and previous ALS patients
• Assist in maintaining ongoing research programs, including scheduling appointments, managing the study team schedule, and communicating directly with participants
• Perform other research related tasks including developing surveys, creating databases, and curating medical records, depending on applicant skill set and interest
• Scan and upload documents into the electronic medical record system
• Perform other duties as appropriate

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in education and experience.

Other Requirements

• Extremely organized with a high attention to detail, with specific attention paid to accurately recording data
• Familiar with medical terminology and laboratory testing
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required
• Must be comfortable working independently and with teams
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism and flexibility

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.