Under the general direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Clinical Research Coordinator III is responsible for independently performing delegated tasks and procedures involving human subject research. This work includes coordination of a well-established large, longitudinal cohort study which focuses on factors associated with disease onset and progression to advanced stages. Tasks include data collection and data entry, communication with participants, labs and physician offices, and maintaining a large database and a biorepository.

Macular Degeneration Center of Excellence

Dr. Johanna Seddon’s lab focuses on the genetic, epidemiological, and behavioral factors affecting macular degeneration and macular dystrophies and finding new therapies; aiming to identify the causes, prevention methods, and treatments for these diseases. The studies provide insight into why eye diseases occur in some people and not others, why they progress to advanced stages amongst those affected, and how to prevent or delay progression of the eye diseases to reduce visual loss. Our results have already been integrated into the current management of AMD patients and have also prompted the exploration of new therapeutic targets tailored to patients’ underlying genetic and lifestyle characteristics. This epidemiologic research does not involve the conduct of clinical trials.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collect study data using standardized forms, questionnaires, and other clinical research materials in the computerized study databases
• Coordinate studies according to Study Manuals, update Manuals, and provide input into improving protocols
• Conduct in-person or telephone interviews and arrange study lab procedures for the studies which involve contact with participants in person or by phone and calls to medical offices and labs
• Track data sent to and returned from study participants using computerized study database
• Organize and maintain computerized project data files and spreadsheets
• Acquire, download and label ocular imaging data from study sites and upload into study database according to protocol
• Responsible for consistency and accuracy of data entry; conduct quality control checks
• Prepare information and submissions for Internal Review Board (IRB) and other regulatory processes
• Assist with lab and biorepository tasks
• Locate and pull samples from freezers for specified studies
• Audit, document samples and tissues in the computerized database
• Assist and provide back-up for lab duties which may involve centrifuging of study blood samples
• Organize off-site blood appointments and shipments
• Assist with maintaining and monitoring freezers, changing tanks for freezers and may rarely need to work off hours for freezer maintenance if freezer alarms are activated.
• Assist with literature reviews
• Available to travel to Eye Center or Fed Ex office in Worcester, MA
• Adhere to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and all human subject protection practices
• Perform other duties as required

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or health related field, or equivalent experience
• 3-5 years of related experience
• Ability to travel off site locations locally

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Extensive knowledge of computer-based tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), including creating and managing Excel spreadsheets
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills to communicate with patients and offices
• Excellent organization, analytical, and interpersonal skills required
• Superb attention to detail
• Good team player

*Please include a personal statement/cover letter outlining your experience and interest in this specific position.