Clinical Pharmacist, Investigational Drug Section (IDS)

The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering "Hope Through Access” to cutting edge trials throughout the United States and Europe.  

We are seeking a Clinical Pharmacist, Investigational Drug Section (IDS). The Clinical Pharmacist, Investigational Drug Section (IDS) is responsible for all facets of medication order verification, dispensing and documentation process for investigational drugs, conventional chemotherapy and supportive care medications provided by the IDS. The pharmacist may be involved in the provision of pharmaceutical care including assisting with patient interviews, maintenance of current medication lists, providing patient medication education, providing drug information to the healthcare team and patients. The pharmacist will practice with a high degree of autonomy, guided by IDS SOPs and quality assurance verification guidelines. This role is responsible for the daily supervision of staff assigned to medication preparation, dispensing, and operation of the IDS in accordance with all applicable rules and regulations.

Work Schedule:  Monday-Friday; Variable (8a – 4:30p, 8:30a – 5:00p, 9:00a – 5:30p)

Location:  800 Foremost Dr SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Essential Responsibilities

• Verify medication orders including accuracy of dosages and calculations, review of basic patient eligibility criteria, including but not limited to accurately signed / dated study consent form(s), laboratory values within treatment criteria, all appropriate tests have been completed, resolution of known toxicity from previous chemotherapy, and an absence of serious known drug interactions.
• Oversee the preparation and dispensing of all medications from the IDS, including supervision of certified pharmacy technicians during preparation of IV admixtures and oral medication dosages, insuring compliance with all steps of the double-check verification process prior to releasing dosages from the IDS.
• Provide pharmaceutical care including patient medication and supportive care counseling, and drug information to the healthcare team and patients.
• Oversee drug inventories including documentation of current inventory, projection of expected usage in concert with ordering, receiving, storage and dispensation tracking of Phase I and conventional medications.
• Assist pharmacy technicians in maintaining adequate investigational documentation, records, weekly inventory, and interactions with study personnel
• Review new protocol(s), protocol amendments and associated forms.
• Maintain and generate reports using the IDS drug accountability program.
• Contribute to the effective operation of the pharmacy department. Enter accurate medication computer order entries and accurate maintenance of reported patient home medications in the EMR.
• Other duties may be assigned at any time.
  
  

Required Education And Experience

Graduate of an ACPE accredited School of Pharmacy.

Current State license.

Previous hospital/clinic pharmacy experience.

Familiarity with sterile compounding requirements for chemotherapy agents, USP, USP, laminar airflow hood(s) / biological safety cabinet(s); telephone and copier / scanner / facsimile machine.

Computer skills, including use Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, Power Point and Access.

Familiarity with the use of electronic medical record program(s), pharmacy software programs and study IRT systems.

Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) principles.

Preferred Education And Experience

• Sterile compounding & chemotherapy certification.
• Intravenous sterile product training.
• Prior experience in clinical trials and management of investigational drugs.
• Specialty residency in oncology and/or current BPS Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (BCOP).
• Bilingual
  
  

Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks 

We value the time, talent, and dedication our employees bring to START. Our commitment to your well-being and growth is reflected in a competitive compensation package—based on experience—along with comprehensive benefits designed to support you both personally and professionally: 

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match 
• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus, based on role and company results 
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays 
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage and optional insurance options 
• Company p‑aid life and disability insurance for added financial protection 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential, no ‑cost support for you and your family from day one 
• Flexible FSA and HSA plans to support your financial wellness 
• Commitment to a supportive environment that values balance, wellbeing, and flexibility 
• We’re committed to fostering a collaborative, creative workplace where every team member is encouraged to contribute. At START, you’ll join a team that values continuous learning, professional growth, shared ideas, and a culture built on inclusivity and innovation. 
  
  

More About START 

START clinical trial sites have conducted more than 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, including dozens of therapies that were approved by the FDA or EMA. START represents the world’s largest roster of early-phase principal investigators across its Network of clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world via our mission of “Hope Through Access”. As an example, in San Antonio, where START was founded, START treated the first patient ever with Keytruda – one of the most effective cancer drugs in medical history. 

Learn more at STARTresearch.com.  

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment? 

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online. 

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.