Research Assistant

Overview

The Research Assistant 1 HSS supports research in clinical trials, public health, or other health service-related areas by recruiting subjects for studies, conducting structured interviews, and collecting specific data according to specified protocols. Responsibilities include limited data analysis, specimen collection in the field or clinic environment, and performing chart reviews to identify study criteria. Tasks may also involve participating in presentations, literature research supporting publication efforts, and assisting in the preparation of research data sets.

There is some after hours and weekend work required (minimally 1 weekend/month).

With direction and oversight from the project director, serve as critical staff member on a research team enrolling patients for randomized clinical trial to evaluate a comprehensive Emergency Department (ED)-based intervention for moderate to severe Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) combining Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) with ED- initiated medications for treatment of alcohol use disorder (MAUD). The Research assistant will support the project by screening and recruiting subjects within the ED (Emergency Department), conducting structured interviews, completing data entry and follow-up scheduling, and preparing materials for study visits. The RA will be responsible for collecting and processing specimens in the clinical environment and performing chart reviews. The RA will also conduct data entry as needed per the study protocol and conduct data analysis if requested. Work with ED clinical and administrative staff to inform and build rapport to ensure support of clinical trial. Performs additional functions incidental to research activities. Provide some after-hours and weekend coverage.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Clinical or Research Environment Experience: Proven experience obtaining informed consent and clinical trial recruitment. Ability to work well in clinical or research settings with a working knowledge of medical terminology and prior experience supporting research studies.
2. Data Management: Proficiency in data entry, data management, and basic analysis using tools such as Excel, SPSS, Python, or REDCap.
3. Interpersonal Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact professionally with research participants, team members, and study staff. Proven experience working with diverse populations. Detail-oriented and demonstrated ability to problem solve.
4. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities and consistently meet deadlines. Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
5. Technological Proficiency: Proficiency with common research analytic software and lab equipment, including but not limited to MS Office applications, data-entry systems, and virtual meeting platforms.

Preferred Education, Experience and Skills

1. Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, public health, neuroscience, or a health science discipline. Advanced degrees or coursework in related fields are preferred.
2. Research Experience: Previous experience in research settings, particularly involving clinical trials, psychiatric evaluations, or substance use disorders. Familiarity with data collection software and statistical analysis tools. Experience working in Emergency department setting. Proven experience with REDCap, OnCore and EPIC.
3. Certifications: Relevant certifications or training in clinical research, HIPAA compliance, phlebotomy, or medical terminology.
4. Language Skills: Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is advantageous.
5. Community Engagement: Familiarity with community health systems or experience working with community-based organizations, particularly those involved in public health or social services.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Researches and collects data through site or home visit intakes; library research; structured interviews; or through other means for designated research assignments. 2. Records and compiles information related to research data. Codes data accordingly to research specifications. Uses a computer terminal to input and retrieve data and to generate reports. 3. Processes and summarizes data using scientific or statistical techniques. Assists in data interpretation and analyses. Reports on status of research activities. 4. Recruits study participants and ensures that subject recruitment and follow-up are completed per protocol procedures. 5. Orders and maintains inventory of supplies. May assist in designing, developing, and modifying research experiments, procedures, or survey instruments. May assist research and support staff. 6. Performs additional functions incidental to research activities.