Clinical Research Assistant - Brain Aging and Dementia Research
Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research (PAVIR) is looking for a full-time Clinical Research Assistant to support research on healthy brain aging and prevention of dementia under the direction the Principal Investigator Joy Taylor, Ph.D. - Clinical Associate Professor (Affiliated) at Stanford University and the Associate Director of the Stanford/VA Aging Clinical Research Center.
ABOUT THE RESEARCH
Our randomized clinical trial aims to determine if repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)'a technique of noninvasive brain stimulation improves memory and cognition, and if so, for how long in adults over age 55 with Mild Cognitive Impairment. The researchers will also examine differences in rTMS effects related to the site of cortical stimulation.
ABOUT THIS RESEARCH ASSISTANT ROLE
The Research Assistant will work independently and will be responsible for careful administration of the rTMS intervention and collecting safety/tolerability data. Other activities may include screening potential study participants for study eligibility and performing other research activities related to the project's objectives.
This position will liaise between the Principal Investigator, study staff (Clinical Research Assistant, Database Manager, and Neuroimaging Data Analyst), clinical research staff, and Stanford IRB.
This a full-time position, located in Palo Alto, CA.
PAVIR offers generous benefits, including comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance, 13 paid holidays, paid vacation time, sick pay, a 401(k) with a fully vested 6% company match and 3% profit share, a wellness program, commuter benefits, and professional development training. Plus, we pay for life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
ABOUT PALO ALTO VETERANS INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH (PAVIR)
PAVIR engages in the administration of funds and providing support for the conduct of clinical research at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) to find new and improved ways to combat human disease and help people with disabilities. At PAVIR we work with more than 160 uniquely talented medical scientists.
Our researchers have an active appointment with the VA Palo Alto Health Care System and most maintain academic appointments or are affiliated with Stanford University. We recruit and retain talented employees who believe in making a difference in the lives of others through innovative health research.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CLINICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Screening potential study participants for study eligibility:
- Conduct IRB approved telephone screening of potentially eligible participants consistent with complex study criteria;
- Evaluate and analyze clinical data from medical records to assess likelihood of participants' eligibility for enrollment in this clinical trial; evaluate issues needing consultation with study physician;
- Explain the nature, purpose, and procedures of this investigation to potential participants in detail, prior to consenting of subjects;
- Consent subjects according to ICH Guidelines;
- Assist with conducting in-person screening as part of multi-disciplinary study team;
- Communicate with study participants, in writing and verbally on study procedures;
- Perform vital signs as needed and as approved by VA R&D scope of practice.
Administering study interventions (NIBS/ rTMS):
- Conduct TMS safety screening daily before delivery of noninvasive brain stimulation;
- Deliver rTMS according to study protocol and as approved by VA R&D scope of practice;
- Assess safety/tolerability of rTMS according to study protocol. Evaluate events needing consultation with study physician and PI. Act as a liaison between the study participant, the study Physician, the PI, the Study Sponsor, DSMB and IRB concerning any unanticipated problems, or unexpected or severe adverse reactions/events (AEs) related to study procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR A CLINICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT
- Bachelor's degree (or Senior-year Bachelor students with a graduation date schedule for June 2021) or equivalent experience;
- 6 months or more of relevant experience in a clinical setting or a clinical research environment;
- Knowledge of medical terms and abbreviations relevant to reviewing and coding medical history;
- Highly reliable with demonstrated organizational ability;
- Accurate record-keeping and attention to detail;
- Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively with study subjects;
- Knowledge of standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the research field gained through education or experience;
- Ability to understand and follow VA regulations and procedures regarding research, privacy and data security;
- Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing;
- Good understanding of clinical terminology and procedures gained through experience;
- Ability to read and understand study/trial protocol;
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and cooperatively;
- Demonstrated understanding of use of human subjects in research requirements;
- Proficiency with Windows OS, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook;
- Proven track record towards meeting goals and deadlines.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1 year or more of relevant experience, including experience as a TMS Technician;
- Previous experience with subject recruitment in a research environment;
- Experience with VA CPRS and RedCap;
- Experience with cognitively impaired elderly, or anxious or difficult subjects;
- Experience with case report form;
- Knowledgeable in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), US FDA regulations, and ICH guidelines.
Physical Requirements:
Repetitive motions of the arms and shoulders when delivering rTMS intervention. Ability to lift up to 15 pounds. Sit, walk or stand for an extended period of time. Other physical demands include pushing and pulling, performing repetitive hand movements, simple grasping (gripping an object with the hand), fine manipulation (typing), carrying items.
Environmental Conditions: Exposure to an office environment and hospital/clinical environment. Exposure to magnetic field generating equipment (i.e., TMS).
READY TO JOIN OUR RESEARCH TEAM? Please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!
PAVIR is a nonprofit foundation affiliated with the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS). As a condition of employment, all PAVIR employees are required to have an approved appointment with VAPAHCS and complete a background check before they can commence work.
PAVIR is pleased to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Veterans, and Individuals with a Disability are encouraged to apply. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact jobs@pavir.org - Human Resources department.
Location: 94304
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For more information, or to apply now, you must click on the green Apply Externally button. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.