"Clinical Research Assistant- ARIA Initiative"

Position Summary/ Department Summary

The Rosamund Stone Zander and Hansjoerg Wyss Translational Neuroscience Center (TNC) is comprised of translational investigators and clinical experts focused on neurogenetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. The TNC has been selected to serve as a clinical IMPACT site within the Aligning Research to Impact Autism (ARIA) initiative. This multi-site longitudinal natural history study aims to map the trajectory of autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This initiative aims to deeply phenotype these populations and identify future clinical trial outcome measures. The clinical research assistant will work closely with TNC research staff and physician researchers to execute this study.

Under immediate supervision, the clinical research assistant will coordinate the daily operation activities of the ARIA initiative. They will be responsible for screening, consenting, recruiting, and selecting participants. They will prepare IRB documentation and IRB submissions in conjunction with the Principal Investigator and/or other members of the research team. They will conduct data collection activities, complete data entry, maintain regulatory binders, and support research activities as required. This position is looking for a preferred two year time commitment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Consents and recruit participants for the ARIA network through personal interviews and written communications with patients/families. Provides detailed background information regarding the study to families, communicates all policies and procedures, and responds to all inquiries. Evaluates suitability of prospective study candidates and makes selections based upon clinical knowledge of each study.
• Serves as liaison to the families/participants in the research studies, conducted at both on-site and off-site locations, guiding and advising them throughout each phase of the study. Coordinates follow-up visits as necessary. Acts as a resource to study participants, addressing any concerns they may have. Troubleshoots resolution of any issues that may arise throughout the study.
• Coordinates and prepares the necessary documentation for Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Committee on Clinical Investigations (CCI) submissions, together with the Principal Investigator of the study.
• Creates and prepares data collection statistical reports and analytical summaries for distribution to study research team for review and analysis.
• Participates in the training of newly hired research study assistants, as required.
• Coordinates activities between the hospital and research laboratories to ensure correct testing/processing and sends out instructions specific to the study. Communicates project policies and procedures to personnel. Monitors and reviews data collection, data entry, and informed consent procedures -- ensuring consistency of application for all participants.
• Performs other miscellaneous administrative duties as assigned or required.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• The knowledge of theories, principles, and concepts acquired through completion of a Bachelor's degree in STEM or psychology.

Experience:

• Work requires the analytical skills to gather and interpret data in which the information or problems are moderately complex to complex.
• Work requires well-developed communication skills in order to provide critical information to patients, effectively deal with conflicting views or issues, and the ability to mediate fair solutions. Work also requires advanced writing skills.