Research Associate, Biomedical

Apply

Description

TFI Department: Biomedical Research

Work Location: In-person

Schedule: Monday-Friday, first shift. This position may require a flexible working schedule with some evening and weekend hours.

Function

This position sits within The Fenway Institute (TFI), the research, education, and policy department of Fenway Health. Reporting to [position title] and under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and other TFI Leadership, the Research Assistant supports the implementation of research studies.

Position Funding

This position is grant-funded and is dependent on the availability of continued grant support for the assigned study/studies. It is possible that the employee's effort will be transitioned, in whole or in part, to other research studies as needed.

Representative Duties

Study Preparation and Administrative/Outreach Implementation

• Assist with study startup: Help prepare study documents (e.g., protocols, consent forms, case report forms, participant files, regulatory binders, and visit checklists).
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure studies meet regulatory requirements (e.g., IRB submissions, informed consent documentation).
• Participant recruitment: Implement study recruitment efforts that lead to study participation, with responsibilities such as reviewing records, identifying and establishing recruitment opportunities and initiating outreach to prospective research participants, attending community events; creating recruitment materials; and maintaining recruitment and screening calendars, databases, and study documentation.

Participant Interaction and Data Collection

• Obtain informed consent: Explain study procedures and risks/benefits to participants.
• Conduct study visits: Carry out research visits according to specific instructions. Schedule study visits and maintain study calendar/visit spreadsheets. Confirm participant eligibility and assist with or perform tasks like administering surveys, collecting biological samples (e.g., blood, urine), taking vitals, and scheduling follow-ups. Accurately and comprehensively complete visit notes, data collection instruments, case report forms, etc.
• Monitor participant safety: Report non-compliance, adverse events, or unanticipated problems promptly to the research leads.

Data Management and Documentation

• Maintain accurate records: Ensure timely and accurate entry of data into study files, including paper files and electronic databases (e.g., REDCap, EDC systems), and keep organized and complete source document files, including signed consent forms, case report forms, and lab reports.
• Assist in data cleaning and audit preparation: Monitor the quality of collected data through routine and ad hoc quality assurance and quality improvement activities (e.g., record review, monitor visit preparation, completion of visit checklists) and respond to data queries.
• Use best research practices, as defined by Good Clinical Practice (GCP), TFI standard operating procedures, study specific procedures, and the research protocol and follow all established guidelines of confidentiality and ethical accountability.

Communication and Collaboration

• Liaise with internal and external teams: Communicate with investigators, sponsors, IRBs, and study monitors. Share study information to Fenway Health staff, patients, and community.
• Attend team and departmental meetings: Provide updates and help resolve logistical or compliance issues.
• Support training and onboarding: Help train new research assistants or interns on study protocols and procedures

Administrative and Logistical Support

• Manage supplies and equipment: Track, maintain, and order study-specific materials.
• Schedule appointments and organize calendars: Coordinate participant visits and team availability.
• Assist with study closeout: Ensure all documents are archived according to protocol and regulatory guidelines.
• Assist in the development of research projects and publication/dissemination of study findings: Utilize library and electronic databases to locate and obtain research articles and performs administrative duties, as needed, in the development of research proposals or manuscripts.
• Develop and share understanding of research context: Monitor and track institutional, state level and federal level policies impacting participant population and research; develop knowledge of field by completing pertinent trainings, attending didactics, reading academic journals, articles and other relevant publications, attending conferences, seminars, forums, trainings and other presentations.

Meets Agency Participatory Expectations

• Adheres to all agency and departmental policies and procedures
• Identifies potential or actual unsafe situations in the environment and takes measures to rectify the situation
• Attends all required meetings, in-services and professional trainings
• Maintains professional competence necessary to perform job responsibilities; maintains and provides agency with records of continuing education activities
• Serves on agency committees and in professional organizations when requested
• Work harmoniously and effectively with colleagues, patients, clients and vendors across the spectrum of diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, national origin and immigrant status, religious or spiritual identity, disability (physical, mental, emotional and developmental), veteran status, and/or limited English proficiency.

Additional Responsibilities of Research Associate II

The Research Associate I works under direct supervision, and performs research duties in medical and related technical areas, that may involve the use of laboratory and research skills. A Research Associate II performs all duties of the Research Associate I and:

• Works with a higher degree of independence.
• Plans and carries out elements of a protocol/project in accordance with general plans
• May assist in developing improved procedures, strategies, or research materials
• Collects and analyzes data
• Oversees inventory
• Participates in training of RA I or more junior RA II

Requirements

• RA 1: Bachelor's Degree and 0 to 2 years of directly related or relevant experience or Associate's degree and 0 to 4 years directly related or relevant experience.
• RA 2: Bachelor's Degree and 3 to 5 years of directly related or relevant experience or Associate's degree and 3 to 6 years of directly related or relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1-2 years human subjects research experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Strong attention to detail, superior work ethic, professionalism and organizational skills
• Strong computer skills (Microsoft Word, Power-Point, Excel, Email) required with the willingness to master new software applications and technologies
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and balance multiple priorities
• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality
• Graduate education or training in a related field or certifications in research

Position Restrictions

Due to the nature of TFI research, anyone currently participating in a TFI intervention/interaction study cannot work within the research department, or for one year after the study has concluded.

We offer competitive salaries, and for those who qualify, an excellent benefits package; including comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans, and a retirement plan with employer match. We also provide 12 paid holidays, paid vacation, and more. LGBTQIA+ identified persons, Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC), and individuals from other historically underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a union position in a Fenway Health bargaining unit represented by 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East.

Salary Description

$22.62 - $25.13