Clinical Research Specialist

University of Colorado•Aurora, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is a key member of the school’s Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, a multidisciplinary research center that investigates and seeks to understand the developmental origins of health and disease, particularly obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and the complex interplay of environmental exposures, genetic, and epigenetic processes in critical developmental periods across the lifecourse. The Clinical Research Specialist will support NIH-funded clinical research studies in varying capacities, including the Investigating Brain Plasticity and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in the Treatment of Obesity (PLASTIC) Trial and the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS). Responsibilities will include recruiting, screening, scheduling, and coordinating study visits; obtaining informed consent; collecting biological specimens through phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) placement; conducting Mixed Meal Tolerance Tests (MMTTs); obtaining anthropometric measurements and physical assessments; administering standardized neurocognitive and cognitive assessments, questionnaires, and other study procedures; performing medical record abstraction; and collecting, entering, and maintaining accurate study data. The ideal candidate will possess strong clinical, organizational, and interpersonal skills, have exceptional attention to detail, and be able to effectively manage diverse research responsibilities while contributing to the successful execution of complex clinical and epidemiologic research programs.

Requirements

A bachelor’s in public health, public administration, social/behavioral sciences, physical sciences, nursing, healthcare, finance, accounting, business administration, business, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or IV Technician certification
One (1) year of experience following a research or clinical protocol with human subjects/patients, including experience in phlebotomy via venipuncture and IV, and biospecimen processing (for Intermediate Level).
Two (2) years of experience following a research or clinical protocol with human subjects/patients, including experience in phlebotomy via venipuncture and IV, and biospecimen processing (for Senior Level).
Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
Ability to organize study activities and to develop systems to maintain oversight of progress.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
Outstanding customer service skills.
Demonstrated experience in fostering a community that values a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Must have reliable transportation, current auto insurance, and be able to travel to complete home visits as needed.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
We are unable to provide work visa sponsorship or employment authorization for this position now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of epidemiology, environmental health, or chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes.
Experience working with all age populations.
Experience administering neurocognitive assessments.
Experience utilizing electronic data capture systems.

Responsibilities

Obtain informed consent process or ensure that the informed consent process has occurred, is properly documented, and that informed consent form documents are filed as required.
Recruit, schedule, and coordinate study visits for participants, acting as a primary contact for study participants.
Collect urine biospecimens and other biospecimens via venipuncture and intravenous (IV) lines; follow biospecimen processing protocols; process samples and ship to central lab.
Administer intensive neurocognitive batteries and health-related questionnaires according to study protocols.
Conduct mixed meal tolerance tests, neurological, physical function, and neuropathy assessments according to study protocols.
Document, organize, and synthesize data collection procedures outlined in the manual of operations.
Ensure that necessary supplies and equipment for studies are in stock and ready for use.
Participate in recruitment/retention efforts and offsite clinic events as needed.