Research Assistant III

The Institute for Medical Research, an affiliate of the Durham VA Health Care System (DVAHCS) is looking for a Research Assistant III for clinical research studies conducted by the Principal Investigator, Dr. Stephanie Wells, and her associates in the research department. The Research Assistant will assist with managing select clinical research studies comparing group compassion meditation to relaxation therapy for Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The principal investigator and research coordinator are responsible for the overall supervision of the work and workload of the research assistant.

Job Description:

Assist with select clinical research performed by the PI:

• Aid with timelines, scheduling, staffing, and other relevant issues
• Assist PIs and researchers
• Maintain up-to-date participant data in an electronic database (Access, RedCap databases)
• Enter assessment data into databases (Access, RedCap)
• With input from the PI, suggest appropriate treatment referrals as indicated by clinical findings from screening and emerging problems reported by participants
• Assist in shipping, mailing, and delivery of study specimens and/or paperwork
• Track funds and submit invoices for supplies

Assist with study protocol compliance:

• Engage in informed consent process, documenting consent according to IRB-approved procedures
• Assist in scheduling appointments for visits and completing required documentation for each visit, including entering into the VA computerized record
• Assist with recruiting and screening potential research participants through reviewing medical records, conducting phone screens, and facilitating assessment visits and reviews the inclusion/exclusion criteria
• Contact patients to remind them of questionnaire return, upcoming appointments, etc.
• Follow all regulatory procedures for research studies and document any deviations from those procedures

 Prepare and maintain all IRB and regulatory paperwork for select clinical research performed by the PI at the DVAHCS:

• Coordinate and assist in maintaining a study binder with all IRB-related documents for studies
• Prepare and submit VA-specific protocol, informed consent form, HIPAA authorization, and other related documents for initial review by the IRB
• Prepare and submit amendments, yearly request for continuing approval of open protocols, audits, adverse event reports, and any other IRB-required submission
• Identify and document adverse and serious adverse events and report to the PI and IRB
• Screen documents and electronic case report forms for completeness and compliance with protocol and appropriate regulations; investigate incomplete, inaccurate or missing documents to ensure accuracy and completeness of data collected and follow-up with subjects as needed

Collaborate with research team, including other Research Assistants, and work effectively with team members:

• Coordinate with Research Assistants, independent evaluators, therapists, and the PI for the project to ensure all objectives are met
• Update and maintain SOPs for various tasks
• Participate in conference calls, weekly meetings, and other team meetings
• Take minutes during meetings to track study decisions and progress
• Help to prepare for meetings

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Required Skills and Experience:

Requires an organized, task oriented, deadline-sensitive individual with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, and 1 year of experience is preferred. Graduate education may be considered in lieu of work experience. The incumbent is expected to meet deadlines on routine duties and to use his/her own initiative in completing work. The following skills are preferred:

• Organized and detail-oriented
• Strong inter-personal and communication skills
• Strong computer skills in Excel and other Microsoft Office programs
• Flexibility in re-prioritizing daily tasks
• Demonstrates responsibility and reliability

Candidates must be able to work diplomatically and professionally with administration, faculty, clinical and lab personnel, and subjects. Demonstrated leadership, professional initiative, teamwork abilities, strong interpersonal relationship skills, and decision-making, and good judgment is expected.  Excellent written and oral skills, Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, editing, and proper telephone etiquette skills are required for this position. Prior experience with clinical research, FDA regulations, and HIPAA considerations is preferred.  Salary will be commensurate with experience level. Applicant must have the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, prioritize and manage the workflow of multiple projects.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements and activities that are required to perform the essential functions of the position include, but may not be limited to, as follows:

1. Must be able to occasionally lift, pull and push a minimum of 25 lbs.
2. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
3. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
4. Must be able to squat, kneel, and stoop.
5. Must be able to regularly use fingers, hands for computer work.
6. Must be able to frequently handle stressful situations.

This position is ideal for a highly motivated individual. This position gives an opportunity to work with a highly productive and dynamic team of MD’s, PhD’s, and research scientists. The candidate will gain knowledge of clinical research methods and coordination.

Employees work for the Institute for Medical Research and will have an appointment at the Durham VA Healthcare System. IMR offers a competitive benefits package which includes health insurance, a matching 403b retirement savings plan, and paid holiday, vacation, and sick leave. Please visit www.imr.org for more information. We do not sponsor applicants for work visas. Employees must undergo a federal background check and may be subject to a drug test and physical.

Participation in the seasonal influenza and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination programs may be required for a Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Workers Without Compensation (WOC) appointment.

We are an equal-opportunity employer, including disabled persons and Veterans

 Click here to apply to this position and others directly on the Institute for Medical Research Careers Page!