INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH AT THE DURHAM VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

Clinical Trials Assistant (CTA) 1 - Office

PI: Dr. Stephen Freedland

Overview: The Clinical Trials Assistant (CTA) 1 is involved with the implementation and execution of several clinical research projects including acquisition and maintenance of large amounts of clinical data from medical records, and questionnaires; specimen collection; and the recruitment and enrollment of research study participants. These multiple functions require a significant degree of flexibility and independence to complete complex tasks.  The work engages multiple skills and a wide-range of project knowledge.

This position is ideal for a highly-motivated individual who may be taking time off between degrees, preferably for two years, and is interested in gaining experience in clinical research. In this position, you will have the opportunity to work with a highly productive and dynamic team of MDs, PhDs, basic and clinical research scientists, and biostatisticians. The CTA will gain considerable knowledge of clinical research methods and urology, specifically knowledge related to interstitial cystitis and prostate cancer. CTAs may have some opportunity to shadow in clinic and in the OR. Seminars and other learning opportunities including manuscript writing after 12 months of employment are also available.

RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:

• Review electronic & paper medical records for medical data and enter into electronic database
• Assist in the collection and management of clinical data and source documents for support of analytical and/or research projects related to interstitial cystitis and prostate cancer
• Work in compliance with study protocols and SOPs
• Recruit and consent study participants over the phone for research projects
• Execute the logistical aspects of research projects
• Trouble-shoot and modify protocol implementation when necessary
• Assist in the collection, processing and shipment of specimens
• Maintain study databases and other study-related spreadsheets and documents
• Participate in team and other project-related meetings
• Work effectively with Veteran populations
• Maintain patient confidentiality
• Work effectively as part of a team
• Adhere to safety and compliance regulations

Qualifications/Experience: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.  They must be detail oriented, organized, flexible and reliable with good communication skills.  They must be able to work independently in a fast-paced environment, prioritize and manage the workflow of multiple projects.  Basic computer skills are required, with experience using MS Access and MS Excel preferred.  Demonstrated leadership, professional initiative and teamwork abilities are required. Prior experience with clinical research, lab work, FDA regulations, HIPAA considerations and consenting process is preferred. Applicants must deal diplomatically and professionally with administration, faculty, clinical and lab personnel, and subjects.  Applicants must be fluent in English.

Candidates must be available to work in-office Monday-Friday. 

The rate of pay: $21.00 per hour.

The prior statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Physical Requirements:

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

• Must be able to occasionally lift, pull and push a minimum of 40 lbs.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to squat, kneel, and stoop.
• Must be able to regularly use fingers, hands for computer work.
• Must be able to frequently handle stressful situations and concentrate for long periods of time.

This role requires handling of human specimens including tissue, urine, blood, and stool.  Candidates will work with freezers and chemicals in a laboratory environment.

Employee Benefits: 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 information about employee benefits.

All IMR employees are required to obtain a Workers Without Compensation (WOC) appointment at the Durham VA Health Care System (DVAHCS).  As a result, the successful candidate must undergo a federal background check and may be subject to a drug test. Participation in the vaccination programs may be required for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Workers Without Compensation (WOC) appointments. We will not sponsor applicants for work visas.          

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!