Temporary Clinical Research Assistant, Nutrition for Precision Health

Job Summary

The job provides technical research support activities related to collecting, documenting, and reporting on basic clinical studies. Supports the administrative and operational tasks for clinical research conducted across the University. This position is responsible for managing participant enrollment and consent processes, collecting and maintaining study data, and performing biospecimen collection including blood draws. As well as providing wet lab support where they will be processing biospecimens, maintaining sample integrity, and preparing specimens for shipment in compliance with study protocols and sponsor requirements. The Clinical Research Assistant works closely with the research team to ensure all study activities are conducted in accordance with sponsor expectations, regulatory requirements, and institutional guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Collects and maintains biometric data and biospecimens, including performing blood draws and processing blood and urine samples.
• Introduces patients at the University of Chicago Medical Center (UCMC) to the research study, answers questions pertaining to participation and consent.
• Assists in administering tests and/or questionnaires following established study protocols.
• Packages and ships biological samples to outside laboratories in accordance with study protocols and safety requirements.
• Ensures all activities are conducted in strict accordance with Good Clinical Practices (GCP) & all applicable current local, state, & federal laws, regulations, guidance, policy & procedure developed by the UChicago Institutional Review Board (IRB), Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), & the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH).
• Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data; &/or preparing basic charts & graphs.
• Prepares participant visit charts, sets up and cleans exam rooms before and after visits, and performs data and equipment quality control checks.
• Performs all tasks in basic clinical studies.
• Assists with and performs various administrative and operational tasks as assigned under direct supervision.
• Supports quality assurance reviews conducted by study sponsors, federal agencies, or specially designated review groups.
• Acquires and applies knowledge of clinical studies to collect analyzable clinical research data and/or samples.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Competencies

• Knowledge of research techniques and methods within a relevant scientific field.
• Knowledge of regulatory policies and procedures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Education, Experience, or Certifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED from an accredited institution required. Bachelor's degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, Nursing, Biology or closely related field preferred. Experience: 1-year relevant research experience including experience with outreach efforts, study recruitment, and collecting biometric data preferred. Phlebotomy experience preferred. Wet lab sample processing experience preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Ability to work on-campus, at community partner locations, in an office and in a clinic setting.
• Requires use of appropriate personal protective equipment and adherence to laboratory safety protocols.
• Requires periods of standing, sitting, and repetitive laboratory tasks.
• Ability to lift and carry laboratory materials weighing up to 25 pounds.