Clinical Research Assistant I

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Clinical Research Assistant IDepartment: ResearchReports To: Mark Garzotto, MDFLSA Status: Full Time, Non-exemptPay Rate: $21.63 - $24.04 per hourWork Type: Onsite POSITION SUMMARYClinical Research Assistants support the implementation of clinical trials by conducting study visits, preparing participant materials, collecting data, and helping ensure studies are well organized and in compliance with protocols. This role offers direct exposure to patient interactions, clinical workflows across multiple medical specialties, and regulatory processes. Research Assistants work closely with Study Coordinators, Principal Investigators, clinicians, and patients, gaining valuable experience that can serve as a strong foundation for advancement into Study/Project Coordinator roles and beyond. Responsibilities provide meaningful opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development in both research and healthcare, while supporting Veterans and their caregivers.We are seeking a dedicated Clinical Research Assistant to take primary responsibility for multiple aspects of human subjects research with Veteran patients. Our current research includes prostate, bladder, hematologic, gastrointestinal, and skin cancer clinical trials. This position involves direct patient interaction in a clinical setting with prospective and retrospective data collection.This position is located in the Research and Development Service of the VA Portland Health Care System (VAPORHCS) in Portland, Oregon.  ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESEnsure the proper conduct of clinical trials according to protocol requirementsRecruit and communicate with Veteran participants in a clinical setting and by phoneAccurately screen, consent, and enroll eligible Veteran patients into clinical trialsPrecisely and accurately document and organize source materials into patient records and electronic medical record systems (EMR)Develop databases, participant tracking systems, and standard operating procedures for research projectsAccurately, thoroughly, and respectfully solicit health information from Veteran participants within a clinical setting and by phoneEnsure timely data collection, entry, auditing, and query resolutionCollect and ship research biospecimens Manage Electronic Data Capture (EDC) across multiple trials and confirm participant timepoint completionWork independently under general supervision of Principal Investigator and ensure tasks are completed accurately and on time.Communicate any problems and concerns, and suggest solutions to the Program Manager, and/or appropriate Principal Investigator. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITYThis position has no direct reports. QUALIFICATIONSTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE Required: Bachelor's degree Preferred:Degree in science, social science, or other health related fieldsPrior research experience, either volunteer, academic or professional KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIESRequired:English language proficiency with excellent oral and written communication skillsMust be able to count, calculate, interpret numerical data/graphs and perform basic mathematical calculationsProficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel & Outlook)Ability to communicate effectively and professionally via email, MS Teams Chat and other electronic platformsStrong critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as deductive and inductive reasoning abilitiesAbility to independently meet deadlines, anticipate needs, prioritize multiple tasks, and follow through on tasks to completionExcellent organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracyAbility to work independently, exhibit self-motivation and enthusiasm to learn new skillsTake initiative to identify and address issues and concerns of veteran patients in a timely and caring mannerPreferred:Basic statistical, data interpretation and unit conversion knowledgePrior experience using Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems such as REDCap, Medidata, or Inform ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBecause this position is based in a VA facility, the Research Assistant must secure a VA Without Compensation Appointment (WOC) prior to starting work, and must maintain a WOC Appointment in order to continue employment.The VA's WOC process will be facilitated by the supervisor and processed through the VA Research and Development office. The screening process required to obtain a WOC may include a background check, a credit check, a physical, a drug test, and a TB test.After the WOC process has been completed, the VA also requires several trainings prior to employees starting work.Portland VA Research Foundation is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status such as race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin or age.All PVARF employees are required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 within 8 weeks of hire, unless medically exempt. Employees will be required to provide either proof of vaccination or an approved medical exemption prior to beginning work.