Nurse Navigator

Job Description

Job Description

The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering "Hope Through Access” to cutting edge trials throughout the United States and Europe.   

We are seeking a  Nurse Navigator . The Nurse Navigator is a critical member of the Phase 1 clinical trial program team, serving as the primary liaison between patients, referring physicians, and START staff. This role ensures timely, coordinated, and personalized care while addressing barriers to trial participation, promoting program awareness, and enhancing patient outcomes.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm 

Location: 800 Foremost Dr SE Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546

Essential Responsibilities:  

• Educate referring physicians and their staff about the START Phase 1 program and clinical trials.
• Perform referral intake for new patients, ensuring coordinated, high-quality care and service.
• Identify opportunities to leverage technology for improved patient matching and care coordination.
• Support patients by scheduling Phase 1 appointments, addressing barriers to care, and linking them with community resources.
• Present new and ongoing trials referring physicians and staff using virtual and in-person platforms.
• Coordinate case conferences and attend tumor boards to support multidisciplinary cancer care.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation for Phase 1 patient tracking and study monitoring.
• Attend administrative meetings, protocol reviews, and site visits as required.
• Demonstrate effective communication and maintain confidentiality of patient information.
• Practice integrity and accountability, incorporating feedback into clinical presentations.
• Support growth goals of the clinical research program with respect to new patient referrals and accruals.

Education & Experience:  

• Associate’s degree.
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the practicing state.
• Minimum of 1 year of oncology experience.

Preferred Education & Experience:  

• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification.
• Clinical trials experience.

Physical & Travel Requirements 

• Travel may be required to referral offices or for presentations.
• Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods.

Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks

We value the time, talent, and dedication our employees bring to START. Our commitment to your well-being and growth is reflected in a competitive compensation package—based on experience—along with comprehensive benefits designed to support you both personally and professionally:  

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match  

• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus, based on role and company results  

• Generous paid time off and paid holidays  

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage and optional insurance options  

• Company p‑aid life and disability insurance for added financial protection  

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential, no ‑cost support for you and your family from day one  

• Flexible FSA and HSA plans to support your financial wellness  

• Commitment to a supportive environment that values balance, wellbeing, and flexibility  

• We’re committed to fostering a collaborative, creative workplace where every team member is encouraged to contribute. At START, you’ll join a team that values continuous learning, professional growth, shared ideas, and a culture built on inclusivity and innovation.  

More About START

START clinical trial sites have conducted more than 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, including dozens of therapies that were approved by the FDA or EMA. START represents the world’s largest roster of early-phase principal investigators across its Network of clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world via our mission of “Hope Through Access”. As an example, in San Antonio, where START was founded, START treated the first patient ever with Keytruda – one of the most effective cancer drugs in medical history.  

Learn more at STARTresearch.com.   

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment?

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online.  

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.