GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:
The Research Assistant (RA) will conduct clinical trials in the Department of Anesthesiology at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH). The trial is a pragmatic Phase III, randomized, blinded, double placebo-controlled, three-arm trial involving elderly patients following cardiac surgery. The objective of this study is to assess the relationship between nighttime intravenous (IV) and sublingual dexmedetomidine administration on postoperative delirium and functional outcomes after surgery.
The RA will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) responsible for all activities of the research protocol. The RA will follow established policies and procedures and assist in executing the procedural and policy decisions made for the study. The individual will conduct work related to the project at BWH, coordinating data management with the study sponsors and their agents. The prospective candidate will assist the Senior Project Manager, the PI and co-investigators in contacting and screening patients, recruitment, obtaining consent, interviewing the patients and entering information into the study database, collecting and organizing patient data, being present and engaged in study procedures with subjects during their hospitalization, scheduling patients for study visits, physical examination and neurological assessment (training will be provided), processing blood samples using a centrifuge, administering questionnaires, and maintaining and updating data generated by the study. The RA will assist with the IRB applications process and follow all regulations as specified by the IRB in conducting the study.
The balance of the position will involve project coordination, communication with referrals sources, interaction with study participants and will involve liaison activities with outside hospitals, sponsors, and other organizations.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provides assistance on clinical research studies as per study guidelines and protocols at BWH.
- Recruits and evaluates potential study patients. Conducts subject interviews and coordinates scheduling of study procedures.
- Executes the procedural and policy decisions made for the study.
- Interacts with patients/subjects regarding study, including patient education, procedural instruction, and follow-up.
- Responsible for recruitment and enrollment of participants for the study, and conducting baseline and follow-up study interventions in person.
- Responsible for collecting data and maintaining patient information database for study.
- Provides various study information or packets to study participants.
- Participates in the IRB continuing review and quality assurance processes.
- Answers any phone calls or responds to e-mail queries regarding study protocol.
- Acts as liaison with the project partners.
- Monitors and sets up any needed equipment.
- Maintains inventory and orders supplies when necessary.
- Participates in regular meetings of study team and activities with the project partners.
- Assists in other assigned miscellaneous duties to help the PI, project manager, other research staff, and co-investigators achieve project aims.
- Assists in other research projects being run by the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at BWH or MGH.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree (BS or BA)
- Graduated with relevant course or project work
SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
- Excellent interpersonal skills for working with study participants.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Knowledge of clinical research protocols.
- Knowledge of computer programs, databases, etc.
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize a variety of tasks.
- Careful attention to detail.
- Ability to demonstrate professionalism and respect for subjects' rights and individual needs.
- Ability to work in a respectful and professional manner with project leadership and other research staff.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The Research Assistant will work primarily in a research office setting at the BWH Main Campus at 75 Francis St. Boston. Study coordination involves participation in study activities at BWH. The RA will conduct study-related functions in person and via electronic computer-based connections. The RA will be required to conduct study-related responsibilities at the main campus of BWH and possibly at outpatient offices related to this site. Since clinical research may involve ongoing monitoring and follow-up of subjects in the inpatient and outpatient settings over a 24-hour period or longer, the position requires schedule flexibility. The RA will be required to conduct on-site study-related activities, engage in communication, and prepare reports during evenings, nights, and weekends. Time off during the week will be provided to make up for weekend and evening work. The duties of the RA are not expected to consist of any special patient-related physical requirements, such as lifting or bending.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
None
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:
None
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
