ECHO Lab Sr. Research Associate 2 (Clinical Research)

Current Employees:If you are a current Staff, Faculty or Temporary employee at the University of Miami, please click here to log in to Workday to use the internal application process. To learn how to apply for a faculty or staff position, please review this tip sheet.The School of Nursing has a great opportunity for a Lab Sr. Research Associate 2 (Clinical Research) to work in Miami, Florida.The Senior Research Associate 2, GAB ensures that the operations of the assigned laboratory are efficient and in compliance with applicable guidelines and regulations. Moreover, this employee engages in complex and specialized research activities in furtherance of the University’s research goals and objectives.The Senior Research Associate II supports ECHO biospecimen processing and performs laboratory experiments across multiple research projects within the lab. This role requires demonstrated technical proficiency in molecular and cellular laboratory techniques, the ability to execute experimental protocols independently, and the capacity to maintain sample integrity across both standardized and research-driven workflows.CORE JOB FUNCTIONS1. Contributes to basic and applied research activities by collecting and analyzing data and maintaining databases.2. Understands and interprets research protocols and procedures.3. Participates in the publication of significant results.4. Advances expertise through continued education, training, and research.5. Maintains an overview of relevant research findings.6. Ensures all research is undertaken according to good research practice.7. Stays abreast of developments in the field which may impact department functions.8. Provides guidance, mentorship, and oversight to junior research staff and students.9. Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.Core Responsibilities1. Perform all ECHO biospecimen processing activities, including aliquoting, labeling, storage, and shipment preparation2. Maintain sample integrity, chain of custody, and accurate tracking for all specimens3. Conduct laboratory experiments across multiple research projects using established protocols4. Perform sample preparation and processing for downstream molecular and biochemical assays5. Execute and document experimental procedures with accuracy and consistency6. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment used in experimental workflows7. Maintain compliance with laboratory safety, regulatory, and quality standards8. Support inventory management across both ECHO and non-ECHO lab activitiesThis list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties or responsibilities as necessary.CORE QUALIFICATIONSEducation:Master's degree in relevant field requiredExperience:Minimum 1 year of relevant experience requiredCertification and Licensing:Refer to department description for applicable certification requirementsRequired Technical CompetenciesCandidates must demonstrate hands-on experience with multiple of the following:• Tissue culture and basic cell culture techniques• Microscopy (e.g., fluorescence, brightfield imaging)• ELISA and plate-based assays• RT-qPCR and nucleic acid quantification• DNA and RNA isolation and purification• Protein-based assays (e.g., Western blotting)• Multiplex assay platforms• Sample preparation for mass spectrometry (MS/MS)• General molecular biology and biochemical laboratory techniquesScope of Role• Supports both standardized ECHO workflows and complex experimental lab work• Requires independent execution of laboratory techniques and protocols• Functions across multiple research efforts, requiring adaptability and technical breadth• Involves higher responsibility for data quality and experimental integrityMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field strongly preferredMinimum 3 years of hands-on laboratory experience in a research settingDemonstrated experience performing molecular and/or cellular laboratory techniquesAbility to work independently and manage multiple technical workflowsFamiliarity with regulatory compliance processes, including IRB submissions andHIPAA guidelines.Phlebotomy certified and trained, or willingness to obtain phlebotomy certification and trainingKey Responsibilities:Research Coordination, Implementation, and LeadershipServes as lead coordinator for community-based and clinic-based studies focused on cancer.Monitors data integrity and ensures that all project activities adhere to protocol and regulatory requirements.Works closely with Principal Investigators and managers to develop and refine study protocols, data collection instruments, recruitment plans, and timelines.Acts as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, includingcollaborators, principal investigators, and regulatory staff.Oversees study implementation across multiple community and clinical sites.Coordinates project timelines, staffing plans, and site logisticsCollaborates with investigators on protocol adaptations and operational planning.Participant and Community Engagement.Conducts periodic performance assessments and supports the professional development of team members.Assists managers with study launch, monitors milestones, and ensures seamless communication between internal teams and external partners.Data Collection Documentation and Quality AssuranceLeads data management efforts, including database design, quality control, integrity monitoring, and qualitative analysis.Coordinates the work of entry-level research associates to ensure data is being collected effectively for assigned research studies.Prepares enrollment summaries, interim reports, and final project deliverables for internal use and reporting to SCCC managers.If certified/trained in phlebotomy, performs venipuncture and collects laboratory samples in accordance with study protocols.Prepares documentation for sponsor audits and monitoring visits.Conducts and oversees interviews and focus groups.Administrative & Operational DutiesMonitors study supply inventory and assist Senior Research Associates with ordering study-related suppliesIf certified/trained in phlebotomy, performs venipuncture blood collections and collects laboratory samples in accordance with study protocols.Collects, processes, packs, and ships specimens (blood, saliva, urine, fecal, etc.) according to protocol, applicable standards and regulations, and coordinates with appropriate laboratories for drop off and storage.Supports manuscript preparations, abstract submissions, and conference logistics.Training and Team IntegrationEngage in professional development and learning activities to enhance research capabilities.Collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to ensure timely and high-quality execution of research activities.Training and supervision of lower-level research associates and research trainees.Supports managers with team onboarding and continuing education activities.Provide project-specific guidance and oversee quality control for field and office activities.Ensures consistency and standardization of study implementation across the team.Supervision and MentorshipProvides direct supervision, guidance, and mentorship to junior research staff, including Research Associate 1 and 2 and Research Support Specialist team members.Provide training on research methods, data collection tools, community engagement best practices, and regulatory compliance.Serves as study lead on multiple research projects, coordinating all aspects of protocol implementationActs as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including collaborators, sponsors, and regulatory offices.The University of Miami is recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions and academic health systems and is among the largest employers in South Florida.With more than 20,000 faculty and staff, the University is committed to excellence and guided by a mission to positively impact the lives of students, patients, and communities locally and globally.We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully. United by shared values, the University community works together to build an environment defined by purpose, collaboration, and service.The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.Job Status:Full timeEmployee Type:StaffSummaryLocation: Coral Gables, FLType: Full time