Research Specialist – Clinical Data and Digital Pathology

Unit: Pathology

Chief Purpose of this position: The Department of Pathology at VCU is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist with a Master’s degree in computer science, data science, biomedical informatics, or a related field to support our clinical research and translational pathology programs. The successful candidate will play a central role in managing patient data, supporting cohort studies, coordinating regulatory protocols, and advancing digital pathology initiatives that enhance research and clinical care.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Patient Data Management: Develop and maintain secure, organized clinical and research databases; ensure data accuracy, integrity, and compliance with institutional and federal regulations (HIPAA, IRB).
• Cohort Studies: Support design, data collection, and data analysis for retrospective and prospective cohort studies in cancer and other diseases.
• IRB Coordination: Assist faculty and clinical teams in preparing, submitting, and maintaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols, amendments, and continuing reviews.
• Digital Pathology & Image Analysis: Manage digital pathology systems, including whole slide image scanning, storage, and retrieval; implement image analysis workflows using computational tools.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Perform statistical and computational analyses; generate reports, visualizations, and dashboards for research teams.
• Collaboration: Work closely with pathologists, clinical faculty, research coordinators, and IT/data science teams to support multi-disciplinary research projects.
  
  

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Biomedical Informatics, Biostatistics, or a related field.
• Proficiency with databases, data management platforms, and statistical/computational analysis tools (e.g., R, Python, SQL, MATLAB, or similar).
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with clinical research data, electronic medical records, or research data warehouses.
• Familiarity with IRB processes, HIPAA regulations, and human subjects research protections.
  

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

Restricted Position: Yes

University Job Title: Research Analyst 1-3

Salary Range: $51,000 - $53,000

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

ORP Eligible: No

Contact Name: Tori Barham

Contact Email: LaToria.Barham@vcuhealth.org