Research Lab Tech 1(Friedman)

The Research Assistant position involves both research and administrative responsibilities. Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant conducts independent and collaborative research. The individual will perform and coordinate a wide range of routine and specialized research functions under minimal supervision. The statements below describe the essential duties of the person assigned to this job. They are not intended as an exhaustive list of all job duties and responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform database and medical record searches to identify potential participants for studies based on criteria developed with Principal Investigators and research supervisors

• Recruit potential participants from among patients attending clinics at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary

• Assist with patient flow for appropriate and timely completion of study-related assessments

• Prepare samples collected according to protocol(s) for appropriate analysis and storage

• Maintain databases and registries, including entry of data from patient visits and testing results. Cleans and exports data as needed for analysis and publications

• Interact by phone and in-person with potential participants from diverse backgrounds, a wide range of ages and with different types of vision impairment or normal vision

• Handle reimbursements for study visits as needed

• Write and develop protocols, recruitment, data collection and other study documents

• Facilitate the preparation and submission of documentation to the IRB

• Prepare regulatory binder and follow guidelines for maintaining it throughout course of study(ies)

• Assist with preparation of enrollment reports for reports to funding agencies

• Maintain physical and electronic study files in accordance with departmental policies and IRB requirements

• Meet regularly with clinical research supervisor and clinicians to plan for upcoming deadlines and to monitor study progress.

• Assist in preparation of PowerPoint presentations, for case presentations etc.

• Participate in writing of manuscripts, book chapters etc.

• Coordinate and carry out designated research tasks and projects making use of library research, structured interviews, data processing, and other investigative techniques.

• Collect, organize, and summarize acquired data using scientific techniques, including computer programs; assists in judging the validity of the data obtained.

• Submit periodic reports of project status to supervisor, regularly suggesting modifications in current procedures.

• Order supplies and equipment with supervisor’s approval.

• Organize material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, progress reports, articles, and/or other documents for publication and/or presentation.

• Provide information and training on specific research processes and equipment operation as needed.

• Oversee the activities of other research personnel as required.

• Maintain established policies, procedures, objectives, quality assurance, safety and environmental control. When applicable, stay current in safety procedures for handling, storage and disposal of bio -hazardous, infectious, radioactive, and toxic substances.

• Perform clerical duties incidental to research tasks as required.

• Attend meetings as required.

• Enhance professional growth and development through educational programs, seminars, conferences, and/or professional affiliations. Consults with other researchers to exchange information.

• Perform other related functions as required or directed.

Bachelor's degree is required, preferably in area related to genetics, vision or neuroscience. Position also requires ability to read, analyze, and interpret, professional journals, or technical procedures; ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of researchers and administrative entities, such as the IRB, and employees. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Well organized and detail-oriented. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work will primarily take place in a patient care clinic. Job may require exposure to bio-hazardous or toxic substances, as well as, Blood Borne Pathogens..

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position requires alertness and manual dexterity. Requires clear vision at 20 inches or less and depth perception. Work requires some lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds

HIPAA Privacy Training and Sanctions

All employees who have access to health information whose confidentiality is protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule are required by the Rule to receive training so that they have an understanding and knowledge of the Privacy Rule that corresponds to their job responsibilities and of the group health plan’s policies and procedures that impact on their job duties. Training on the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Rule and the plan’s health information policies and procedures under the direction of the institution’s privacy officer is a pre-requisite for this position.

Employees who violate the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Rule will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.

This description is intended to indicate essential tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title.It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of supervisors to assign, direct, or control the work of staff members under their supervision.The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned but that are of similar kind or level of difficulty

Massachusetts Eye and Ear is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, sex, pregnancy or conditions related to pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.