Research Coordinator (1-Year Term)

University of Toronto • Toronto, ON

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education is globally recognized for developing and advancing knowledge about the interactions of physical activity and health through outstanding undergraduate and graduate education programs, cutting-edge research and the delivery of sport, recreation and high performance athletic opportunities for students, staff, faculty and community members across the three campuses. In achieving this vision, the Faculty is guided by values of integrity, respect, equity and diversity. This position is in the lab of Professor Amy Kirkham in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the Cardiometabolic, Oncology, Diet and Exercise in Women (CODE) research centre (in development). The lab and research centre (co-led by Dr. Jenna Gillen) characterize the intersection of cancer, cardiovascular, and metabolic disease in women and develop lifestyle interventions (exercise, diet, rehabilitation, etc) to prevent or ameliorate these conditions. The lab and research centre take a comprehensive and holistic assessment approach, encompassing the collection and analysis of biological samples, real-time biosensors (e.g., continuous glucose monitors, physical activity trackers), cardiopulmonary exercise testing, state-of-the-art magnetic resonance and ultrasound imaging (primarily cardiac and vascular), and patient-reported and clinical outcomes. The Research Coordinator’s primary purpose is to be responsible for the coordination and data collection within a large (n=180) trial of exercise and diet interventions aligning with Health Canada guidelines among pre- and post-menopausal women at risk for chronic disease (Study acronym: Ms. FIT). The study involves extensive data collection via a wide range of physiological assessment techniques of the heart, vessels, blood, and skeletal muscle as well as delivery of the interventions with a large team. Individuals with appropriate background and/or experience will receive specific training to complete various data collection procedures including assisting with oral glucose tolerance tests, body composition, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and cardiac and vascular ultrasound. The secondary purpose of the position is for the maintenance of research-related activities in the lab, including coordination of lab activities, other ongoing research, and administrative duties. The incumbent may support other research projects by providing knowledge, skills, and on-the-job training to others.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology or Physical Education, Nutrition Sciences, Nursing, Human Physiology, Human Biology with requirement to have education in human physiology as it relates to any of these disciplines
• Education or direct experience (2 years) in at least two of the following areas related to this research: cancer (clinical only), cardiovascular physiology or cardiology, metabolic health or diabetes, clinical trials, or clinical nutrition
• Minimum of two years of experience in clinical research involving adults with chronic disease. Time spent in graduate school counts toward this experience
• Basic knowledge of common chronic diseases and medications, and/or ability to independently gain this knowledge
• Excellent oral and written communication, teamwork, customer service, and interpersonal skills
• An ability to exercise judgment within established guidelines
• Exceptional organizational and problem solving skills, and attention to detail
• High computer proficiency
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and to multi-task while remaining organized and diligent

Nice To Haves

• Applicants with clinical exercise physiology or personal training certification or registered dietitian credentials will be given special consideration
• Experience with human physiological assessments (including use of metabolic carts for exercise testing) and clinical assessments (e.g., blood pressure) would be considered strong assets

Responsibilities

• Recording or verifying transactions related to research
• Scheduling study participants, study personnel, and equipment/space for assessments
• Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date database of participant recruitment, enrollment and study progress
• Informing Principal Investigator of concerns or setbacks
• Following rules and procedural instructions when administering a randomized controlled trial (good clinical practices and CONSORT guidelines)
• Documenting and maintaining standard operating procedures
• Tracking and monitoring research activities
• Liaising with internal and external service providers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level