Research Assistant - Cancer Institute

The Penn State College of Medicine, Cancer Institute is seeking a Research Assistant in Hershey, PA.
** Position Summary
** The Research Assistant provides intermediate-level support for clinical and translational research projects within the Penn State Cancer Institute, with a primary focus on Genitourinary (GU) Oncology research. This position supports non-treatment interventional and observational studies through study coordination, protocol development, participant consent and enrollment, data management and analysis, regulatory compliance, scientific writing, and research administration. The role works closely with investigators, collaborators, and research staff to advance the GU research portfolio and ensure the successful execution of research initiatives.
** Key Responsibilities
**** Research Study Support
*** Assist in the design, development, and implementation of GU research studies under the guidance of faculty investigators, including Dr. Joshi.
* Develop study protocols and supporting research documentation.
* Support the conduct of observational and non-treatment interventional studies, including participant recruitment, informed consent, enrollment, and follow-up.
* Assist in the development and maintenance of an NGS data biobank to support GU research initiatives.
** Data Management and Analysis
*** Collect, organize, manage, and analyze research data to support ongoing studies.
* Ensure the accuracy, integrity, and reproducibility of research data and study records.
* Prepare figures, tables, reports, and summaries of research findings.
* Maintain electronic and paper research records and databases.
* Support manuscript preparation, scientific reporting, and data presentation.
** Regulatory and Project Coordination
*** Maintain study documentation and ensure compliance with institutional, IRB, and regulatory requirements.
* Coordinate day-to-day research operations, project timelines, and study logistics.
* Schedule meetings and serve as a liaison among investigators, collaborators, sponsors, and laboratory partners.
* Track study milestones and support timely completion of research objectives.
** Research Administration
*** Assist with grant proposal development and submission.
* Support preparation of progress reports, abstracts, presentations, and scientific communications.
* Process purchase requests, reimbursements, invoices, payroll documentation, and budget tracking.
* Maintain certifications, protocols, regulatory files, and administrative records.
** Collaboration and Process Improvement
*** Evaluate research workflows, troubleshoot issues, and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and data quality.
* Participate in GU research meetings, presenting project updates and contributing to scientific discussions.
* Collaborate with faculty, research staff, students, and trainees by providing technical support, assisting with onboarding and training, and fostering a collaborative research environment.
** MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
** General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS)2+ years of relevant experience;
Relevant education accepted in lieu of experience

Required

Certifications:

None###   
** BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
** This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.###  Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
** SALARY & BENEFITS
** The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $40,608.00 - $58,836.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn…