Research Assistant 147 views

Virginia Commonwealth University is hiring for Research Assistant

Location: Virginia, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $33,000 to $35,000

Department: Psychology

Summary:

This position supports a clinical trial examining the potential for harm reduction with electronic nicotine delivery systems among African American cigarette smokers.

Lab and Research Assistants perform a variety of routine, non-technical duties in assisting technical and professional personnel in clinical and research laboratories. Typical duties include contacting and coordinating schedules with study subjects, handling basic information intake, record and track results, and provide logistical support by helping prepare space, materials, and equipment. Assistants also perform general lab maintenance by obtaining, cleaning, and sterilizing instruments, glassware, and equipment; wrapping, labeling, and preparing specimens; and setting up and monitoring equipment. They may be responsible for checking stock, ordering supplies, and keeping records. They may work independently or as a member of a team. They work under general supervision, resolving most standard issues independently and referring complex issues to an upper-level manager. Assistants typically report to a manager or director or may report to a department administrator. Senior Lab and Research Assistants are distinguished from Lab and Research Assistants by a greater knowledge of proper lab and research protocols as well as associated record-keeping compliance.

Duties:

1. Subject Recruitment:

• Screen potential participants
• Complete telephone screens, monitor online registry. Knowledge of inclusion/exclusion criteria for each protocol.
• Describe the study to qualified applicants making sure the subject is aware of the time required to complete protocol sessions.
• Post IRB-approved fliers for recruitment.

2. Obtain Informed Consent:

• Help qualified applicants through the informed consent process
• Determine subject is able to comprehend written language, provide consent.
• Answer subject questions as able or elicit Principal Investigators input.

3. Data Collection:

• Collect data in multi-hour sessions according to protocol.
• Connect subject to Critic are monitor and monitor vital signs, adhering to safety parameters established by medical monitor.
• Use specialized equipment to measure participants’ puffing behavior and/or lung function.
• Notify appropriate personnel (research nurse/medical monitor) of change in subject’s vitals and/or health.
• Administer subjective and cognitive tests during sessions.
• Schedule follow-up visits.
• Conduct interviews and surveys via phone.

4. Data Management and Analysis:

• Manage and prepare data for analysis.
• Monitor participant progress and follow-up completion.
• Coordinate participant payments and documentation.

5. Training:

• Maintain up-to-date training.
• Provide orientation to new research assistants and/or graduate students as needed.
• Instruct new staff on the proper techniques of performing research.

Education and Experience:

• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member of VCU.
• Ability to work in a diverse environment.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of protocols, screening process, inclusion/exclusion criteria, informed consent process, research tools and confidentiality.
• Ability to use required equipment or become qualified to use equipment.
• Working knowledge of computer programs and systems.
• Working knowledge of Excel and SPSS.

Preferred:

• BA or BS preferred or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Basic research knowledge.
• Psychology background.

Interested candidates, please apply.mb