BFT - Clinical Research Coordinator for Radiation Oncology

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Lymphedema Research Program at Massachusetts general is seeking a Clinical Research Coordinator with an understanding of data analytics, coding, and an interest in patient care. As part of the Radiation Oncology Department, the Lymphedema Research Program provides prospective lymphedema screening to breast cancer patients treated at MGH and uses the acquired data to better understand lymphedema and how best to treat it.

The position requires the applicant to be comfortable working directly with patients in a clinical environment; maintaining and utilizing an electronic database; communicating and coordinating with different health care providers and support staff; designing research projects and conducting analyses independently; and managing administrative responsibilities including patient appointment coordination, record-keeping, and continuing reviews.

The ideal applicant would work well in a dynamic team environment, have a background or relevant coursework in biology and coding with an interest in the medical field, and have strong written and verbal communication skills. The team would strongly prefer a candidate who would commit at least two years to the position and be available to start working in January 2025.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under supervision of the PI, coordinates the implementation, both internally and externally, of sponsored clinical research studies.
• Collects and organizes patient data, initiates, and maintains contact with study participants. Once trained, may be responsible for assisting with screening applicants over the phone, ensuring they meet appropriate criteria
• Once trained, will perform bilateral arm volume measurements on patients
• Collects computerized questionnaire data from research participants during lymphedema assessments.
• Working in concert with the PI, and under the supervision of the project manager, helps with developing and implementing patient recruitment strategies.
• Develops, organizes, and/or maintains study databases. Responsible for data entry and quality control of data. May conduct basic data processing and statistical analysis of data.
• In conjunction with the PI, develops, and under the direction of project manager, assists with writing, and implementation of new research protocols including design, data collection systems and institutional review board approval (IRB). May contribute to changes to research protocols.
• Performs literature searches as appropriate.
• Assists PI with preparation of slide presentations, poster boards, and research articles.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Successful candidate must possess basic computer skills in order to use a variety of electronic systems to access and/or maintain personal employment-related data, satisfy required annual trainings, and use job-specific applications.

• Ability to work independently under the supervision of the study PI and/ or program manager.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical or research problems and issues, and to interpret the acceptability of data results.
• Strong and proactive interpersonal skills are required for working with the study participants and working as a member of a highly integrated team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of clinical research protocols.
• High degree of computer literacy Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) and Windows OS; RStudio or coding skills required. Experience coding in a professional setting preferred.
• Careful attention to detail.
• Excellent organization skills and ability to prioritize a variety of tasks.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism and respect for subjects' rights and individual needs.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology or related science field preferred

EXPERIENCE:

• New graduates with some relevant course/project work or those without any prior research experience will be considered for the Clinical Research Coordinator I position outlined above.
• At least one year of work experience in a research setting preferred.
• Sound independent judgment and competence in research methodologies preferred.
• Previous experience working with patients or in a healthcare setting strongly preferred.