Clinical Research Assistant I, Ophthalmology

UT Southwestern Medical Center • Dallas, TX

147d

About The Position

The Clinical Research Assistant I position will be based at the Clinical Research Unit (CRU) of the Ophthalmology Department, supporting clinical research activities. In addition to the CRA I responsibilities stated below, the responsibilities include providing patient care by performing ophthalmic examinations including but not limited to taking medical histories, medication reconciliation, obtaining visual acuity, motility, pupils, confrontation fields, refractions, tonometry, speculars, lensometry, performing visual fields, administering ophthalmic drops, BCVA, ETDRS, and other ophthalmic photography including but not limited to Heidelberg OCT, Optovue OCT-A, Oculus Pentacam, and research related non FDA approved investigational devices, all in accordance with the research protocol. The CRA I will coordinate research studies and trials, support study documentation, and assist with data collection and study-related logistics. The assistant will be responsible for accurate and timely data entry into electronic data capture systems (EDC), maintaining regulatory binders, ensuring equipment certification, and updating patient Electronic Health Records. Additional responsibilities include maintaining HIPAA compliance, managing medical supplies, troubleshooting ophthalmic equipment, and staying informed about advancements in ophthalmology research and diagnostics. The CRA I will also help review physicians' schedules, coordinate referrals, obtain relevant medical records, and support internal communication through in-basket messages and documentation. This role involves assisting in visit scheduling, maintaining patient records, onboarding new hires, and contributing to efforts aimed at improving CRU workflow and research participant experience.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Experience as an Ophthalmic Technician or Ophthalmic Photographer is highly preferred.
• BLS (Basic Life Support) may be required based on research study protocols or affiliate location requirements.
• CPR AED may be required based on affiliate location requirements.

Responsibilities

• Enters data into case report forms or other data collection system based on research study.
• Assists with maintenance of study level documentation.
• Assists with data queries and possible edits for accuracy.
• Compiles data for regulatory requirements and/or deadlines for local or sponsor submissions.
• Maintains existing databases and ensures data integrity.
• Understands visit schedules, criteria and protocol requirements for routine and low complexity trials.
• Schedules research visits.
• Assists research staff by completing research protocol related tasks.
• Assists with preparing annual reports and/or modifications to institutional review board (IRB).
• Reviews and abstracts information from medical records including eligibility criteria.
• Recruits and enrolls patients in research study that may include consenting patients after training and with supervision.
• Assists with ordering and maintaining research supplies following university/department procedures.
• Ensures that equipment is in good working order.
• With adequate training and supervision, assists with collecting and processing specimens following established procedures/protocols.
• Assists in preparing studies for closeout.
• With adequate training/credentialing and supervision, performs study procedures such as phlebotomy, vital signs, and EKG's needed for research study.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• PPO medical plan, available day one at no cost for full-time employee-only coverage.
• 100% coverage for preventive healthcare - no copay.
• Paid Time Off, available day one.
• Retirement Programs through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS).
• Paid Parental Leave Benefit.
• Wellness programs.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED