Patient-facing Research Assistant

At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.

Rolling Hills Estates, CA

Peninsula Research Associates

Full-Time | Monday through Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm

Launch Your Career in Healthcare & Research

Are you a recent graduate looking to gain hands-on experience in healthcare or clinical research? This is an exciting opportunity to work directly with patients, support clinical trials, and build real-world skills alongside experienced research professionals.

As a Clinical Research Assistant , you'll play a key role in supporting study visits, interacting with patients, and ensuring research is conducted safely and accurately. Whether you're planning a future as a Clinical Research Coordinator, healthcare provider, or pursuing advanced education, this role provides a strong foundation and meaningful exposure to a fast-paced, patient-centered environment.

What You'll Do

• Study Preparation
  • Prepare and maintain study documents, including source charts, study binders, regulatory binders, and laboratory kits.
  • Schedule and confirm subject appointments, including ancillary visits such as diagnostic imaging and vendor-related services.
  • Understand study protocols, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with FDA, Sponsor, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
  • Assist in participant recruitment by prescreening electronic medical records, following up on referrals, and coordinating outreach efforts.
• Participant Care and Interaction
  • Provide subject care, including explaining study procedures, answering questions, and monitoring diary compliance.
  • Conduct study procedures, such as collecting vital signs, performing ECGs, and completing study questionnaires.
  • Perform follow-up and reminder calls to ensure subject adherence to visits and study protocols.
  • Assist with participant stipend tracking and processing.
• Laboratory and Specimen Handling
  • Perform blood draws (phlebotomy) and process biological samples, including shipping per study requirements.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and temperature control systems, ensuring compliance with study protocols.
  • Generate and file weekly temperature reports for laboratory systems.
• Data Entry and Management
  • Enter and verify study data in Electronic Data Capture (EDC), Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS), and other databases.
  • Address system-generated queries and perform quality control checks to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
  • Assist with case report forms (CRFs) and source document completion, including query resolution under study coordinator guidance.
• Administrative and General Support
  • Maintain and organize participant charts, Investigator Site Files, and other regulatory documents.
  • Support clinical research coordinators (CRCs) by filing, scanning, and faxing required documents.
  • Clean, stock, and maintain exam rooms and department supplies to ensure readiness for participant visits.
  • Participate in investigator meetings, study teleconferences, and trainings.
  • Assist with onsite or remote clinical research monitor visits.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow step-by-step procedures
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
• Strong communication skills and a professional, patient-focused demeanor
• Comfortable interacting with a diverse patient population
• Proactive, dependable, and eager to learn new skills
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and priorities throughout the day
• Professional, reliable, and eager to learn

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree OR 2 years of college in a health-related program OR completion of a medical assistant, phlebotomist, or other healthcare-related program OR experience and training in conducting clinical trials with knowledge of ICH GCP required
• CNAs, Medical Assistants, Phlebotomists, and other patient-care healthcare roles heavily preferred
• Experience with medical terminology and laboratory procedures preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to collect, compile, and analyze patient data accurately.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and customer service skills.
• Easily able to learn new computer or website applications (i.e. Electronic Medical Records, Clinial Trial Management Systems, etc.)
• Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
• Problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.
• Strong organizational skills with the proven ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines
• Phlebotomy training and experience heavily preferred; willingness to become fully trained required

Why This Role is a Great First Step

• Gain hands-on experience working directly with patients in a clinical setting
• Learn the fundamentals of clinical research and how trials are conducted
• Build transferable skills for careers in healthcare, research, or biotechnology
• Work alongside experienced professionals who provide training and mentorship
• Create a strong foundation for advancement into roles like Clinical Research Coordinator or beyond
• Make a meaningful impact by helping bring new treatments and therapies to patients

If you're looking to turn your academic experience into a meaningful, patient-focused career, this is a powerful place to start.

California Pay Range

$22-$27 USD

Headlands Research will never ask a candidate for personal identifiable information (date of birth, social security number, driver's license information, etc) via email or messenger tools, or for a financial deposit of any kind.


Headlands Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.


Need Assistance?

Headlands Research is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact View email address on click.appcast.io for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.