Research Assistant / Laboratory Specialist

Centricity Research•Vaughan, ON

About The Position

We’re looking for a Research Assistant / Lab Specialist to support the successful execution of clinical research studies from start to finish. In this role, you’ll work closely with Investigators, Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs), and the wider site team to ensure studies run smoothly, safely, and in full compliance with protocol and regulations. This hands-on role is varied—some days you’ll recruit and screen participants, other days you’ll collect data, process samples, or keep study documentation organized and accurate. In addition to Research Assistant responsibilities, you will also perform routine laboratory sample collection, processing, and shipping in accordance with study protocols, laboratory manuals, SOPs, and company guidelines. Your work will directly contribute to advancing clinical research that makes a difference in patients’ lives.

Requirements

A degree in a health, science, or research-related field or equivalent hands-on experience in a healthcare or clinical setting.
Comfortable with clinical tools like blood pressure monitors, ECG machines, or point-of-care testing devices (or are eager to learn).
Strong attention to detail and can maintain accurate, compliant documentation.
Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
Communicate clearly and professionally with participants, colleagues, and external partners.
Tech-savvy and comfortable navigating Microsoft Office and clinical data systems.
Thrive in a team environment but can also work independently.
Bring a proactive, problem-solving mindset to every challenge.

Responsibilities

Conduct study activities in compliance with GCP, SOPs, and study protocols.
Monitor participant safety and well-being throughout their study journey.
Schedule and conduct study visits, including vitals, ECGs, and other protocol-required assessments.
Perform phlebotomy, sample collection, processing, and shipping as required by protocol, laboratory manual, SOPs, and company guidelines
Complete requisition, labeling, storage, and shipment of specimens accurately
Conduct blood glucose testing for diabetes participants and other point-of-care testing (e.g., nasal swabs) as required
Perform ECGs, vital signs, meal distribution, and other clinical procedures as required by protocol/site
Perform PBMC collection, receipt of samples, isolation, and cryopreservation as required
Maintain PBMC supplies, documentation, and samples
Assist with recruitment strategies and outreach efforts to identify eligible participants.
Screen participants according to inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Obtain informed consent and maintain accurate documentation.
Perform delegated clinical tasks such as phlebotomy, sample collection and shipping, point-of-care testing, and investigational product accountability.
Accurately complete source documents, CRFs, queries, and maintain CTMS records.
Collect and report adverse events promptly, including SAEs within required timelines.
Maintain investigational product inventory, logs, and storage conditions.
Conduct quality control checks to ensure data accuracy and protocol compliance.
Prepare for monitoring visits and audits, assist with ISF maintenance, and address follow-up actions.
Organize exam rooms, labs, storage, and waiting areas as needed.
Assist with scheduling, participant check-in/out, and front desk coverage (as applicable).
Participate in company or community outreach events to support recruitment and engagement.