GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:



The research assistant (RA) will work on recruitment and testing of subjects for several studies focused on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including the COPDGene Study. COPDGene is a multi-center observational study of over 10,000 smokers with and without COPD, which aims to identify COPD subtypes and genetic influences on COPD. Subjects have been followed long-term, and 15-year follow-up visits will begin shortly.


The RA will perform a full scope of responsibilities including participant recruitment, scheduling subject visits, quality control, and data management. The RA will complete study specific protocols to collect data within various environments including both in-hospital visits and occasional travel to participant homes. The RA will also assist in training / support of other technicians.


The RA will work closely with faculty members to implement new protocols and data collection tools and will be responsible for the efficient flow and quality-control of data during both the collection and data analysis stages. The RA will work closely with the principal investigators, other professional staff, and all supporting staff.



PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


* Recruit study participants by personal interview and phone. Facilitate the ascertainment of and review of medical records for participants. Enroll subjects into the studies independently. Must have sensitivity to complex medical and psychological problems of potential study participants.


* Maintain hard and electronic copies of forms in a readily available, organized format. Maintain quality control and quality assurance of all data collected.


* Document all study procedures to maintain an accurate, comprehensive record of how a study is conducted.


* Work with the lab supervisor in the processing and management of specimens collected.


Confirm all results received from outside labs and update the database.


* Communicate with various providers in BWH to implement study-specific procedures, including: radiologists, radiology technicians, PFT technicians, physicians, and phlebotomists.


* Maintain communications with study sponsors and outside vendors, including on site meetings and monitoring visits.


* Perform data entry of questionnaires and data management using computer programs including REDCAP and ACCESS.


* Complete study protocol independently at visits, including administration of a questionnaire, pulmonary function testing, and collection of blood samples. Must keep accurate documentation of all study procedures. Inform investigators when test results appear abnormal or when a participant may need to be referred to a doctor. Must have excellent independent problem-solving abilities for problems which develop during field-testing. Perform additional clinical measurements as needed.


* Coordinate reimbursement of study participants.


* Maintain established department policies, procedures, objectives, quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control for all aspects of research and laboratory operations. Performs all other duties/responsibilities as directed.


* Maintain current recruiting and enrollment estimates for each protocol, reporting to principal investigators regularly.


* Work with faculty to oversee the use of project funds, equipment, and supplies. Investigate and make recommendations for appropriate equipment and supplies to be purchased for new protocols.


* Maintain and track IRB submissions (amendments, violations, annual reviews) and other regulatory documents.



Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:



* BS/BA degree in biological/physical/social science required.


* At least one year of research experience in clinical trials or epidemiological studies is required. 3-5 years of related experience preferred.


* 1-2 years of experience with computers including: word processing, spreadsheet applications, and database management.


* Must be computer proficient. Experience in database management and Microsoft Office preferred.


* Phlebotomy experience preferred.



SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:



* Must have a high level of professionalism and integrity, and consistently display solid judgment in a non-supervised setting.


* Must positively and professionally represent the Hospital and Healthcare Centers in all client interactions.


* Must have the ability to work independently.


* Requires excellent oral and written communication skills.


* Must possess excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to coordinate the activities of others. Must be able to set priorities and manage staff over a wide range of activities.


* Must possess excellent organizational skills.


* Must be willing to make phone calls and perform study visits in the evenings and on weekends to ensure maximum recruitment effort.


* Must be willing to travel regionally, nationally, and potentially internationally for meetings and study visits.


* Must be computer proficient. Experience in database management and Microsoft Office preferred.


* Phlebotomy experience preferred.



EEO Statement

BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.