Research Assistant

Clinical Research Assistant Boston VA Research Institute

Position Type: Non-Exempt / Hourly, Full-Time/ In-person

Company Information

We are a Boston-based epidemiology and biomedical research organization seeking a full-time, in-person clinical research assistant for a research study examining a remotely delivered physical activity promotion and Tai Chi intervention for patients with COPD and/or heart failure at the VA Boston Healthcare System (West Roxbury campus).

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities

The Research Assistant supports all aspects of the research project(s), including technical, clinical and administrative duties including (but not limited to) recruitment and screening of research participants, conducting outcome testing and performing clinical assessments as detailed in the study protocol(s). The position requires careful attention to detail in collecting study data, and reliable and accurate execution of other required study‑related tasks as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

The Research Assistant is responsible for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of research data and serves as the focal point for interactions among the research participants enrolled in the project(s). Training will be provided in the study techniques including all assessment methods.

There is opportunity for the candidate to actively participate in writing abstracts and research papers, and delivering scientific presentations. A successful candidate will gain valuable experience and knowledge working in all phases of the clinical research process, including study design and implementation, data collection with direct interactions with patients, regulatory oversight, and analysis and interpretation of results while embedded in a clinical, hospital setting.

This position is ideal for someone wishing to gain hands‑on experience in a clinical or health‑related field. This is a unique opportunity for someone seeking a collaborative experience while receiving outstanding mentorship.

Job Description/Responsibilities

• Responsible for managing study participant processing and flow from initial recruitment, informed consent and enrollment, and follow‑up assessments.
• Conducts surveys in‑person and virtually using standardized survey instruments or specific assessment tools detailed in the study protocol(s).
• Manages research data in REDCap per research protocol(s) and established SOPs.
• Reviews and verifies research data ensuring appropriate data tracking, storage and security procedures are in place.
• Compiles, prepares, and assists in developing reports for internal and external oversight entities.
• Maintains integrity and confidentiality of data, private health information and personal identifying information.
• Attends all study‑related meetings.

Skills and Experience

• Degree required:
  Minimum of BA, BSc that includes courses in biological, social, or public health sciences is preferred.
• Previous research or clinical experience with human subjects is preferred but not required.
• Superior interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Knowledge of standard computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, REDCap, and standard audiovisual conferencing platforms such as Zoom.
• Candidates seeking a 2‑year commitment or greater are preferred.

The employee must be a resident of Massachusetts upon start date.

Please note we are unable to provide work authorization and/or visa sponsorship.

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets.
The candidate must reside in the state of Massachusetts for this position.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described in this job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to sit for prolonged periods of time; stand; walk; use hands; and reach with hands and arms.

This position requires the ability to occasionally lift office products and supplies,…