Research Study Assistant -- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology

Job Description

The Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Study Assistant to join their Renal Cell, Melanoma, and Merkel Cell Oncology Clinical Trials Research Program team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to the clinical research team Data Manager, the Research Study Assistant (RSA) works with Division faculty and research staff to facilitate investigator-initiated and pharmaceutical-sponsored clinical trials promote the research objectives of the Renal/Melanoma Programs in the Division of Hematology and Oncology. The RSA is responsible for providing administrative and technical support to the research team to coordinate protocol-required sample collections and to collect and abstract clinical data from medical records and research charts. This position will work in conjunction with research staff implementing multiple research projects to test hypotheses in human subjects. Upwards of 50 oncology patients across the disease program may be enrolled on clinical trials at any given time. This position needs to be able to prioritize numerous concurrent tasks and manage both short-term and long-term multi-step tasks.

The Research Study Assistant primarily works on-site at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center (FHCC) and project work visits may be required at local affiliate locations. The RSA may be eligible to be considered for a hybrid telework work schedule, working remotely up to one day per week, once fully trained and demonstrating telework readiness.

Key Responsibilities

This position must be able to work on multiple research projects without benefit of written policies or procedures.  This position requires daily interaction with research staff, health care personnel (e.g. nurses, patient care coordinators, patient service representatives, medical assistants), pharmaceutical company sponsors and any other groups integral to the successful completion of the research project.

Patient-centered Research Support - 60%

• Independently maintain and track laboratory sample supplies, complete requisition forms, and assemble kits for upcoming research subject visits for assigned clinical trials.

• Independently track and process research subject blood and urine samples and radiology scan copies from both internal and external providers. Follow study specific guidelines for collection, labeling, and/or shipping.

• Manage kit inventory for all active studies.

• Interact with patients at study visits to collect data, as needed. 

• For some research studies, independently request copies of radiology images, complete requisition forms and submit to pharmaceutical company.

• Assist with tissue or sample collection and route to appropriate lab.

• Independently track and maintain research subject schedules based on complex protocol-specific requirements.

• Collate and establish study-specific research and reference binders.

• File requisitions and other research documentation in each patients' research chart.

Data Coordination, Abstraction and Analysis – 18%

• Principally responsible for monitoring and tracking upcoming patient visits and maintaining research programs patient calendar and research study databases and spreadsheets.

• Assist Research Coordinators with study-specific or program data acquisition forms.

• Work professionally with sponsor representatives to review and correct data recorded in the case report forms.  Exercise independent judgment on query resolutions.

• Enter, resolve and answer data queries with minimal errors. 

• Understand research study flow and work with research team members to perform the required research support tasks at appropriate study appointments.

• Assist Research Coordinators in preparing and conducting sponsor monitoring visits. 

Regulatory Coordination - 12%

• Assist research staff with ongoing IRB and other regulatory submissions.

• Assist with maintaining regulatory files and tracking systems.

• Assist with maintaining regulatory folders in the eBinder system.

• Assist with organizing and filing safety reports.

Administrative – 10%

• Manage incoming/outgoing faxes.

• Assist with triaging emails from shared email accounts.

• Assist program as needed to support operations of overall research program. 

• Perform related tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Two years of college-level course work in a relevant academic area AND one year of appropriate experience.

• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Applicants who do not meet these minimum qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager

Additional Qualifications

• Demonstrated understanding of medical terminology.

• Strong computer skills and experience with data entry and databases.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to organize work.

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, and to work effectively with colleagues, research subjects, and study sponsor representatives.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and to carry out complex tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in science-related field.

• Knowledge of Oncology practice and terminology.

• Prior working experience at the UWMC and FHCC.

• Prior experience in basic processing laboratory samples.

• Competency in Microsoft Office software.

• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations.

Working Conditions

• This position is in a clinical and research environment that is located at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center campus.  Work hours may exceed 40 hours per week and can be deadline dependent.

About the Team

The University of Washington's Division of Hematology & Oncology includes 200+ staff and 450+ faculty members located at the UW Medical Center, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (FHCC), and the VA Puget Sound Health Care System. Over the past 40 years, members of the Division have developed the world's leading bone marrow transplant program. In addition, members of the Division have made substantial contributions to many other areas of cancer treatment, including the use of tumor vaccines, cellular therapy for cancer, antibody-based treatments, and novel forms of chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. Our division is deeply committed to maintaining its position as one of the leading centers for research and treatment of cancer in the world.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.