Clinical Laboratory Technician

Job Title:

Clinical Research Technician - PK Processing Area Job Description

The Clinical Research Technician supports clinical research studies by working closely with floor technicians and phlebotomists to collect, organize, and process pharmacokinetic (PK) samples in a small laboratory adjacent to the clinic floor. This role focuses on blood and urine sample handling for healthy study participants in an overnight Phase I clinical research environment and helps ensure that all procedures are carried out accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with study protocols.

• Work collaboratively with floor technicians and phlebotomists to collect, organize, and process PK samples in the designated PK Processing Area of the clinic.
• Collect and harvest plasma, serum, and other required laboratory specimens strictly following protocol specifications and timing requirements.
• Monitor the collection of urine and, when required, fecal specimens from subjects participating in clinical studies, ensuring accurate labeling and documentation.
• Assist with urine collection from subjects as needed to support smooth study operations.
• Collaborate with study coordinators to maintain a smooth and orderly flow of procedures across the clinic, laboratory, and urine monitoring areas.
• Complete all required study documents, logs, and forms accurately and in a timely manner for each specimen and procedure performed.
• Undergo training on special equipment and laboratory instruments as required by study protocols and apply the training in daily work.
• Maintain all procedures and processing areas in a neat, clean, and organized manner, adhering to quality control and safety standards.
• Perform pipetting, centrifuging, and other routine laboratory techniques in accordance with established procedures.
• Support accessioning and proper tracking of samples to ensure accurate identification and chain of custody.
• Follow all protocol-specific instructions for Phase I studies involving healthy subjects in an overnight stay environment.
• Provide occasional assistance on the clinic floor when requested, while primarily focusing on laboratory and sample processing duties.
• Participate in weekend rotation coverage as needed, while ensuring total weekly hours remain within standard full-time limits.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support study conduct and overall clinic operations.

• Previous laboratory experience (comparable to at least 1 year) that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform routine lab tasks and sample processing.
• Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques, including pipetting, centrifuging, and handling blood and urine specimens.
• Ability to follow detailed clinical research protocols and standard operating procedures accurately.
• Strong attention to detail for specimen labeling, documentation, and data entry to maintain sample integrity and study quality.
• Capability to work in a Phase I clinical research environment with healthy subjects participating in overnight stays.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with floor technicians, phlebotomists, and study coordinators.
• Organizational skills to keep laboratory and processing areas neat, clean, and well-structured.
• Reliability and flexibility to participate in weekend rotation coverage without exceeding 40 hours per week.
• Ability to learn and operate special laboratory equipment after receiving protocol-specific training.
• Commitment to quality control and adherence to safety and cleanliness standards in all laboratory activities.

• High or secondary school diploma or equivalent, combined with relevant formal academic or vocational qualification.
• Technical positions may require a related certificate in laboratory science, medical technology, or a similar field.
• Experience in clinical research or Phase I units with healthy subjects is beneficial.
• Familiarity with accessioning processes and sample tracking systems is an advantage.
• Understanding of basic chemistry concepts related to specimen handling and processing.
• Ability to work across multiple functional areas, including clinic, lab, and urine monitoring, as study needs require.

This position is based in a large clinical research unit in Austin, TX, with more than 100 beds and a Phase I model focused on healthy subjects participating in overnight stays. The environment is often described as a 'feed and bleed' setting, where scheduled meals and frequent blood draws are…