Research Technician - Clinical & Biospecimen Collection

McGill University•Montreal, QC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The incumbent works closely with the Research Administrator and the Principal Investigator to support clinical research activities, including biospecimens collection (blood, urine, saliva), participant screening, data collection and follow-up. The technician plays a key role in ensuring participant safety, protocol compliance, accurate documentation and high-quality data acquisition.

Requirements

College diploma (DEC) in a relevant field such as laboratory technology, biomedical science, health sciences or equivalent.
Phlebotomy / venipuncture certification recognized in Québec (e.g., Attestation de formation en prélèvements sanguins or equivalent training required for specimen collection).
Minimum 3 years of relevant experience, preferably in a clinical or research environment.
Strong interpersonal skills; customer-focused, approachable, responsive and professional.
Proven discretion with confidential or sensitive information; ability to handle participants with tact and diplomacy.
Excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for biospecimen collection.
Ability to explain study procedures clearly and obtain informed consent.
Strong organizational, time-management and multi-tasking abilities.
High attention to detail and accuracy; ability to verify and ensure data quality.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Knowledge of English: Level 3 on a scale of 0-4.
Authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec.

Nice To Haves

BSc. is an asset
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is an asset.
Experience with clinical research databases (e.g., LORIS) is a strong asset.
French (spoken and written).

Responsibilities

Assist in the screening, assessment and selection of potential research participants.
Obtain informed consent from participants in accordance with ethical and institutional requirements.
Educate participants and caregivers regarding study procedures, expectations and compliance.
Perform clinical measurements including vitals, anthropometric measures, height and weight.
Administer clinical questionnaires and basic cognitive assessments (MMSE, MoCA, CDR, VCAT).
Perform blood collection through venipuncture in accordance with Québec regulations and within the limits of the technician’s phlebotomy certification.
Collect saliva and urine samples.
Process, label, prepare and ship biospecimens following laboratory SOPs and study protocols.
Assist the neurologist during lumbar puncture procedures and provide participant support before and after the procedure.
Provide instructions for post–lumbar puncture care as per protocol.
Document all study-related procedures in source documents and electronic systems accurately and promptly.
Enter clinical and screening data into RINOS and ensure data completeness and quality.
Update databases, upload required documentation and correct conflicts or discrepancies as needed.
Maintain confidentiality of all participant information and comply with institutional privacy regulations.
Book study appointments and provide participants with preparatory instructions.
Conduct follow-up phone calls with subjects and caregivers to collect additional information and ensure compliance.
Assist investigators with documentation related to medical history, concomitant medications, adverse events and participant evolution.
Order and maintain study supplies and ensure examination rooms and laboratory areas are properly stocked and organized.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
Competitive vacation policy
Two (2) personal days
Two (2) floating holidays
Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
Paid time off over the December holiday period
Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits