Clinical Research Assistant II

Mass General Brigham•Brookline, MA

2d•$24 - $35•Hybrid

About The Position

The Clinical Research Assistant II (CRA II), to be based in the Osher Center's Mind-Body-Movement Laboratory, will work directly with the Principal Investigator (PI) and Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health to advance the Center by performing a variety of tasks. The Center is based in the Division of Preventive Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The CRA II will play an integral role in two ongoing projects in integrative health research: Qualifications 1. Acupoint Sensitization in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This is a clinical and translational (C/T) study aimed at addressing knowledge gaps surrounding the biology and scientific basis of acupoints. Based on prior preclinical studies demonstrating cutaneous sensitization or neurogenic inflammation at specific acupoint locations in animal models of colitis, we aim to translate these findings in humans subjects by investigating cutaneous (acupoint) sensitization in IBD. Specific to this project, the CRA II will assist with: Conducting laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) and infrared thermography to measure cutaneous blood perfusion and temperature, respectively Performing pressure pain threshold (PPT) assessments Coordinating the collection and storage of biospecimens, including stool and blood samples 2. Effect of Photobiomodulation (PBM) on Stress Physiology: This is a sham-controlled, within-subjects clinical study aimed at evaluating whether or how PBM, a light-based therapy, affects heart rate variability (HRV) under acute stress. Specific to this project, the CRA II will assist with: Setting up and conducting clinical evaluations, including the stress test, and the delivery of PBM or sham intervention Collecting HRV and other physiological data (e.g., electrodermal activity, blood pressure)

Requirements

Ability to work well in a team, as well as independently.
Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks, and set deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Careful attention to detail.
Computer literacy and word processing skills.
Ability to demonstrate professionalism and respect for subjects rights and individual needs.
Ability to manage and maintain accurate records across several ongoing projects.
Comfort with technology and ability to learn new research tools and devices; all necessary training will be provided.

Responsibilities

Assist with recruitment and enrollment of study participants.
Administer phone screens and assess potential participants’ eligibility for inclusion in the study via screening forms and checklists.
Collect in-person informed consent and oversee enrollment process that follows.
Interact with participants prior to enrollment and maintain communication/compliance throughout study life-cycle.
Actively participate in data collection, including administering questionnaires and collecting biological samples and physiological data.
Develop and pilot-test data collection forms and procedures (hardcopy and/or electronic databases, etc.)
Directly respond to inquiries regarding study protocol and policy.
Serve as liaison or point-person for the study.
Communicate with the PI concerning appropriate issues during interaction with participants.
Plan agendas and provide logistical support for meetings with study teams.
Collaborate on manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, including co-authorship of papers.
Participate in decisions made for the study and formulation of study-specific policies and procedures.
Identify modifications needed and work to implement solutions.
Performs all other duties, as assigned.