Clinical Research Laboratory Assistant III - Cancer Center

Medical College of Wisconsin•Milwaukee, WI

12h•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Clinical Research Laboratory Assistant III contributes to preparation, processing, and shipment of clinical trial-related laboratory samples, biopsies, and archived tissue samples for the Cancer Center Clinical Trials Office (CCCTO). The role manages kit supplies and inventory, oversees databases and filing systems, and performs administrative and data-entry work supporting clinical research studies. The assistant also supports study activities, laboratory training, equipment maintenance coordination, and troubleshooting under the direction of research nurses, study coordinators, and investigators. The work involves transporting and processing research samples, maintaining supplies and records, and supporting timely, protocol-compliant shipment to the institutions specified by study sponsors. The position requires attention to laboratory safety, accurate documentation, organization, and effective collaboration with study teams and other clinical and laboratory personnel.

Requirements

High school education or equivalent; appropriate experience may be substituted for education on an equivalent basis.
At least 3 years of experience.
Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation.
Strong attention to detail for precise experiment execution, data recording, and documentation.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Adequate proficiency with essential computer software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to organize tasks, manage time, and meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
CITI training within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or related field.
Experience in research, clinical care, or systems and data management.

Responsibilities

Prepare blood collection tubes and deliver them to appropriate locations; pick up tubes and process or transport them as needed.
Process samples by spinning, aliquoting, freezing, and preparing peripheral blood slides, and ship them according to sponsor specifications and timelines.
Request archived tissue samples, including slides or blocks, from the pathology department at FMLH or outside hospitals, and ship them as required by study sponsors.
Assist study teams with collecting, processing, and shipping fresh tissue biopsies according to study protocols.
Collect required data from study coordinators and research nurses and enter it on clinical research forms and in the study laboratory specimen database.
Enter research data accurately on case report forms, in OnCore, and in other appropriate databases under the direction of a research nurse or study coordinator.
Assist with coordination of basic study activities under direct guidance.
Organize the laboratory and file room to maintain an efficient and safe workplace.
Manage supply orders, returns, and destruction.
Meet with study-specific monitors during Site Initiation Visits and monitoring visits to review laboratory training, kit inventories, and stored samples.
Meet with investigators to determine sample logistics for Investigator Initiated Trials, including laboratory needs, storage or shipment destinations, and processing timelines for billing purposes.
Help facilitate laboratory competency training for new CCCTO employees, including sample processing and shipping, biohazard waste location, proper PPE, and the Exposure Control Plan.
Assist with coordinating preventative maintenance for laboratory equipment.
Troubleshoot laboratory-related issues, including extra tubes, blood draw order and timing questions, last-minute research laboratory add-ons, and missed labs.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Health, vision, and dental coverage.
Flexible Spending options.
403B retirement package.
Competitive vacation and paid holidays.
Tuition reimbursement.
Paid parental leave.
Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP).
Pet insurance.
On-campus fitness facility with onsite classes.
Discounted rates on select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation, and entertainment.