Research Assistant, Clinical

The School of Medicine and Center for Shock Trauma and Anesthesiology Research (STAR)/Neuro Critical Care division is recruiting for a Research Assistant, Clinical position. The position is responsible for assisting with the performance of research projects in a clinical setting, including recruitment of potential study subjects and collection and organization of data. The Research Assistant, Clinical is expected to work independently and knows and applies the fundamental concepts, practices and procedures of particular field of specialization. The position provides an exciting opportunity to work in a fast past environment on projects including federally funded studies and industry sponsored drug and device trials.  

The STAR Center's mission is to facilitate translational research in areas related to trauma, tissue injury, critical care, and anesthesiology. With the combined resources of the School of Medicine, the Shock Trauma Center, the National Study Center, and the UMB campus, the STAR-ORC is uniquely positioned to enhance patient care through pre-clinical and clinical research. 

UMB offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development. Contingent Category II staff receive a generous leave package that includes over 2 weeks of vacation each year, paid holidays, sick time, and time for community service; subsidized comprehensive health insurance and supplemental retirement options; professional learning and development programs; limited tuition remission for employees enrolled at UMB; life insurance and long-term disability; and flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job).  

Essential Functions:

• Communicates directly with participants regarding the research study. Perform data collection by conducting research interviews, reviewing medical charts, and accessing computerized medical information systems. Recruits and screens subjects for research studies according to IRB approved protocols. Verifies participant eligibility; obtains consent and enrollment; and assures accurate demographic information for follow-up.
• Independently establish and maintain database files and reports using computer applications such as Microsoft Excel/Access.  Perform data checks, audits, and data cleaning.   Check validity and accuracy of data ensuring compliance with quality control requirements and study relevance.  Develops data collection instruments such as survey questionnaires.
• Perform data analysis and interpretation, and develops statistical reports of study data using descriptive statistics using SAS, STATA, and SPSSS software. Assists in developing, submitting, and providing content for grants, papers, abstracts, manuscripts, and presentations. Conducts and analyzes literature searches.
• Assist the PI and other research personnel in the development of research protocols and materials by providing study analysis and forming conclusions and recommendations. Assist in developing and recommending policies and procedures and/or design methods for clinical research activities.
• Perform administrative duties such as: providing training and guidance to interviewers; participating in field visits, responding to requests and questions from individuals, institutions, government agencies, and funding agencies; and participating in the design of research studies.
• Performs other related duties as assigned, such as maintaining inventory of bio specimens, and specimen collections and processing.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in epidemiology, sociology, psychology, biology, emergency health services, nursing or field of study or science related to the research of the clinic. 

Experience: Prior experience in clinical research preferred.

Other: Consideration may be given for a unique combination of education and experience.*

*Bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field with at least 18 credits in a field related to the research of the clinic or laboratory, as appropriate, or Bachelor’s degree in unrelated field with at least one year of experience in a field directly related to the research of the clinic or laboratory, as appropriate.  Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials and/or ionizing radiation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Ability to understand and utilize scientific/medical terminology and research theory in both oral and written communications. Ability to understand and apply approved guidelines of varying research protocols. Knowledge of best practice in research protocols and procedures. Ability to gain knowledge and meet the reporting needs of UMB policies and practices for Institutional Review, Human Protections, Animal Protections and other the like.  Ability to maintain high standards with the work being performed and maintain awareness with trends and influences.  Assumes personal responsibility for all outcomes; makes effective and timely decisions; and learns how to effectively use technology. 

Skill in various interviewing techniques. Skill in data abstraction and entry into study specific database software applications. Skill in statistical interpretation and data analysis using statistical software as well as spreadsheet and database software applications.

Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts.  Writes and presents information in a clear and concise way.  Interprets and understands written information and is able to listen attentively to verbal and non-verbal cues that lead to a deeper understanding.  Ability to maintain confidentiality of subjects and information obtained. Ability to network with, and provide information to key groups and individuals. Ability to work as part of a team.

Ability to work cooperatively with others and demonstrates professional, ethical, respectful, and courteous behavior when interacting with others.  Capable of interacting pleasantly and positively with other to meet customer expectations, and provide follow up with customers. 

Ability to use measurable and verifiable information for making decisions or judgements. Excellent organizational and project management skills. Ability to use a consultative approach to resolve issues in area of responsibility.

Salary Range: $46,000 - $51,000 (commensurate with education and experience).

UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Staffing department at [email protected] .

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request . You may also contact [email protected] . Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.