Institute for Medical Research at the Durham VA Health Care System

DATA TECHNICIAN I

PI: Dr. Stephen Freedland

The Institute for Medical Research, a nonprofit organization that conducts cutting edge research for the Durham VA Health Care System (DVAHCS), is seeking to hire a Data Technician I. This position is ideal for a highly motivated individual who may be taking time off between degrees or programs with an interest in clinical research. The successful candidate will be employed in the laboratory of Dr. Stephen Freedland, a nationally recognized leader in urology research and associate at the Durham-based Urology Research Lab. The Freedland Urology Research Group primarily examines prostate and bladder cancer in veterans with a focus on lifestyle, race, and risk stratification, and is supported by numerous federal grants as well as leading industry sponsors.

The Data Technician is involved with the acquisition and maintenance of large amounts of clinical data. The work engages multiple skills across a wide range of active projects. These multiple functions require a significant degree of flexibility and critical thinking to complete complex tasks. This position is also an opportunity to work with a highly productive and dynamic team of MDs, PhDs, and research scientists. The candidate will gain considerable knowledge of clinical research methods, the field of urology, as well as have access to a variety of educational experiences and professional development. Previous data techs have been able to shadow in the operating room, attend seminars, and after the first 12 months of employment participate in academic manuscript development resulting in first authorship.

Responsibilities:

Data Abstraction

• Assist in maintaining a vast quantity of patient-oriented data used in support of analytical and/or research projects related to urology.
• Review electronic and paper medical records for medical information and conduct electronic database entry.
  

Quality and Compliance

• Perform efficient and accurate data abstraction and entry into database systems.
• Adhere to internal standards of procedure, good clinical practice, and other IMR/VA policies.
• Maintain patient confidentiality.

Team Work and Motivation

• Work effectively with other team members as part of a team.
• Complete tasks independently and manage personal workflow.
• Communicate effectively with team members in both a written and oral manner.
  

Non-critical Elements

• Troubleshoot and modify protocol implementation when necessary.
• Recommend new methods for data collection and documentation.
• Assist other research personnel.

Qualifications/Experience: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and possess strong interpersonal and communication skills. They must be reliable, self-motivated, detailed-oriented and extremely organized. Data technicians are required to manage the workflow of multiple projects accurately within a fast-paced environment. They may be required to sit for long periods of time in front of computers and to occasionally lift-up to 40 pounds. English proficiency and basic computer skills are required; familiarity with MS Excel and Access is preferred. Employees must reside in North Carolina and be able to work in an office setting.

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.

Pay Rate: Non-negotiable pay is $21.00 per hour.

Start Date: Expected start date is in June but is somewhat flexible and contingent upon completion and processing of VA paperwork.

Supervisory Controls: The Clinical Research Coordinator, under the direction of the Principal Investigator, is responsible for the overall supervision and workload of the data technician. This position will, however, report directly to the Data Technician Manager and their work may be reviewed by other members of the research team.

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!