Clinical Research Assistant

SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator(s) and Clinical Research Coordinator, assists in the acquisition and analysis of patient information for multiple clinical research projects. Interviews patients to gather information; prepares and maintains study records; enters data via computer; and performs statistical analyses of resultant data. Participates in qualitative and quantitative analyses of research outcomes.

Reviews relevant literature to gather information and may participate in the development of research protocols. May perform EKGs and take vital signs during research-based monitoring tests. May also perform blood spinning and shipment of blood and tissue samples as required by protocol.

Brown University Health employees are expected to successfully role model the organization's values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, as these values guide our everyday actions with patients, customers, and one another.

In addition to our values, all employees are expected to demonstrate the core Success Factors which define how we work together and accomplish our goals. These include:

• Instill Trust and Value Differences

• Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides assistance to Principal Investigators to coordinate clinical research activities related to the department's field of study and investigator-specific studies.

• Assists research physicians in the identification and follow-up of patients meeting eligibility criteria for inclusion in clinical research studies; ensures protocol eligibility requirements are met.

• Establishes and/or maintains study records for each participant.

• Interviews patients and/or families to explain the nature of the study, elicit cooperation, and gather information to complete study questionnaires.

• Facilitates obtaining informed consent.

• May schedule patient appointments and contact patients to complete documentation.

• Reviews medical records to abstract information necessary to complete study forms.

• Requests and follows up on missing data such as laboratory test results.

• Monitors adherence to research protocols and alerts physicians when laboratory tests are not completed or medication protocols are not followed.

• Performs research-based EKGs, vital signs measurements, blood spinning, and shipping of blood and tissue products in accordance with protocol specifications.

• Collects and organizes patient data into appropriate formats to facilitate data entry.

• Operates computers to enter study information into databases.

• Uses pre-packaged software to perform computer-assisted statistical analyses (e.g., linear regression, frequencies, cross-tabulations).

• May write non-complex programs using compatible software languages to reformat information or create new data files.

• Maintains computer equipment and coordinates internal or external service for repairs and maintenance as needed.

• Prepares graphs and charts to present research findings.

• Participates in qualitative and quantitative analyses of data.

• Assists in planning research protocols.

• Coordinates activities of others assigned to research projects, including interviewing patients and completing forms.

• Reviews literature pertinent to ongoing research to enhance understanding of study objectives and methodology.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in Applied or Life Sciences or a related field, including coursework in research methodologies and microcomputer systems.

EXPERIENCE

• Three to six months of on-the-job experience to become familiar with specific research studies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of research methodology theory and techniques.

• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, gather research information, and prepare data for computer entry.

• Interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

• Analytical skills to assist in developing research protocols and performing statistical and qualitative/quantitative analyses.

• Technical ability to operate and maintain computer systems.

• Demonstrated ability to provide patient care with consideration for aging processes, stages of human development, and cultural patterns throughout the care process.