Research Assistant I - BWH Asthma Research Center, January 2025

The Research Assistant (RAI) works with the Laboratory Manager, Principal Investigators, and other staff to conduct screening and study visits. This position plays an essential role in the successful completion of multiple clinical research protocols being conducted in the Asthma Research Center at one time.

The RAI is responsible for independently recruiting and screening study subjects for eligibility to participate in clinical trials. The RAI is also responsible for study data collection and entry, lab processing and maintaining study regulatory documents. They may be responsible for spearheading recruitment efforts for research studies. Excellent communication (oral and written), phone, and computer skills are necessary.

Working under general supervision from the Laboratory Manager, provides support for clinical research studies.

1. Assists in the development and planning for the implementation of procedures for research studies evaluating asthma treatments and medications.

2. Reviews, understands and obtains appropriate certifications for study specific protocols and ARC procedures.

3. Actively contributes to the recruitment of study subjects for ARC studies. This includes assisting with developing and implementation of recruitment strategies, telephone screening of potential subjects, enlisting participation by scheduling appointments and sending out necessary paperwork.

4. Performs study visits, including review of consent with subjects, following ARC procedures for study visits, and appropriate follow up with subjects.

5. Clinical and pulmonary testing including performing, e.g., vital signs, EKG, blood draws, skin testing, spirometry, methacholine challenges, sputum induction, exercise challenges, assisting with certain procedures for bronchoscopies and other related procedures.

6. Collects and reviews study data, ensuring compliance with protocol and data integrity. Refers appropriate clinical issues/questions to respective medical/managerial staff.

7. Adheres to the administrative aspects of trials, including data quality, protocol violation reporting and adverse event reporting, and accurately and promptly maintains study related logs.

8. Coordinates study data with Data Coordinating Center, corporate study sponsor or their CRO. Promptly resolves and responds to data queries.

9. Prepares and presents data reports as directed.

10. Other study related procedures and duties as assigned.

BA/BS degree, with moderate to strong background in science and interest in research.

1. Strong background in science
2. Ability to attend to detail and be precise with the ability to work independently, exercising judgment in establishing priorities.
3. Must possess the analytical ability to resolve minor technical equipment problems and interpret acceptability of data results.
4. Should have word processing capabilities; general computer experience in Excel and Access highly desirable.
5. Should have experience working with MS Office tools.
6. Ability to write and communicate effectively.
7. Must have excellent interpersonal skills for working with study participants and explaining procedures.