PTSD/TBI Staff Research Associate - 134173

UCSD Department of Psychiatry is one of the most innovative and productive academic departments in the country, offering challenging career opportunities in the diverse areas of advanced educational programs, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art clinical services. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the individual will work as a Staff Research Associate within the Department of Psychiatry. Duties include assisting PI and Study Coordinator with day-to-day affairs of study coordination for protocols and administrative tasks associated with protocols at all levels of activity. Under close technical supervision, interact with PIs, Clinical Coordinator, Collaborating Scientists, pre- and post-doctoral fellows in implementing clinical protocols through regulatory approved processes, study participant accrual and coordination of study activities. Track study participant data in MS Excel and/or other databases. In addition, the incumbent will be trained and will assist in collection and processing of (1) EMG/PPG testing, computerized neurocognitive assessments and psychosocial scale data and (2) human tissue processing (blood, urine, saliva) for banking.

Under the supervision of Principal Investigator (PI), and the Clinical Research Manager, establish and maintain direct communication with PI and Co-Investigators to identify participants appropriate for multiple research studies. Consult with Clinical Research Manager on matters of recruitment and eligibility. Perform standard repetitive procedures of limited variety which include scheduling, preparing, and conducting research visits with study participant. Educate study participants and families regarding study treatment, including the expected benefits and side effects of study participation. Compile and enter data and provide reports as requested by Clinical Research Manager. Assist with the preparation of applications and consent documents for submission to UCSD Human Research Protection Program (HRPP), the San Diego VA, and other subcommittees and regulatory agencies. Assist with the collection of appropriate biological specimens as required by active clinical trial protocols. Other duties as assigned by PI or Clinical Research Manager.

• Theoretical knowledge of psychiatry, psychology and/or other mental health services in social science, with emphasis on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, and alcohol use disorders.

• Some experience reading and interpreting research protocols and policies.

• Experience interacting with psychiatric populations, in particular those individuals with a history of trauma exposure, traumatic brain injury, and/or alcohol use disorders.

• Proficiency in using database software, including Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint, R and experience using VA approved data basing/documentation and regulatory websites (onramp).

• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to communicate skillfully and interact positively with a variety of people.

• Efficient organizational skills necessary to prioritize workload in order to meet deadlines.

• Experience conducting human subject research activities and knowledge of the guidelines related to consent, ethical conduct and protection of human subjects.

• Ability to maintain documentation required by the university and/or government agency and knowledge of what is required.

• Some experience assisting with manuscript preparation and federal and private grant application preparation.

• Ability to recognize problems and correct them as necessary or seek help in correcting the situation.

• Some experience with statistical and graphing software.

• Ability to provide training and work directions to student workers and volunteers.

• Ability to conduct human tissue processing for storage and ex vivo assays, biohazard handling and shipping.

• Familiarity with computer programming languages or demonstrated programming skills in relation to data collection, analysis and reporting.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

• Some variation of work schedule.

• Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed.