Research Assistant - Infectious Diseases

Columbia University
United States, New York, New York
Nov 06, 2024
Job Type: Support Staff - Union Bargaining Unit: SSA Regular/Temporary: Regular Hours Per Week: 35 Salary Range: $59,845.49 - $59,845.49 The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Position Summary The Research Assistant will provide technical and research-oriented services in the Columbia P&S Research Site to support the conduct of wide range of studies in the Division of Infectious Diseases with a focus on COVID-19 prevention and treatment clinical research studies. The successful candidate will join a dynamic clinical research team, with the primary goal of providing the highest quality clinical care, teaching, and research in the best academic tradition. The candidate will assist a multidisciplinary team of researchers in the implementation and conduct of biomedical research studies, including epidemiological and clinical research studies related to COVID-19 as well as studies that evaluate assessment of attitudes towards HIV prevention and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among young adults and women at risk of HIV. Columbia P&S Clinical Research Site conducts industry and NIH sponsored HIV prevention and HIV treatment studies. This position requires a bright, self-motivated and highly organized individual with strong communication skills who is quick to learn new skills and techniques, and feels comfortable working independently as well as with others in a clinical research setting. Responsibilities Assist with participant recruitment, administer questionnaires, and collect data according to study protocols. Ensure data and study samples are collected, transported, and stored in compliance with study guidelines. Help research staff prepare clinical and laboratory forms and documentation to ensure adherence to protocol-mandated procedures. Perform assays, prepare stock or working solutions, calibrate equipment, and process specimens, following assigned protocols. Complete complex assignments while adhering to standard operating procedures that require technical proficiency and attention to detail. Conduct Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (PBMC) separation, harvesting, and cryopreservation, setting up and conducting experiments per established guidelines. Maintain laboratory equipment, order supplies, and assist with administrative tasks, ensuring effective communication between clinic and laboratory. Enter data into databases and conduct quality assurance activities to ensure timely data entry and transmission. Assist in developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and strategies for participant retention. Analyze, interpret, and present collected data. Conduct informed consent procedures, obtaining signed consent prior to study-related activities. Perform additional administrative duties as assigned. This position operates under the general supervision of the principal investigator. While assignments are routine, they may involve more complex tasks. Please note that this position is reliant on grant funding. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 1.5 years of related experience, or equivalent education, training, and experience Strong decision-making abilities and independent problem-solving skills Attention to detail and the capacity to maintain accurate records while managing multiple projects Proficient computer skills and strong communication abilities Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of COVID-19, prevention strategies, HIV/AIDS, and infectious diseases, or experience in clinical and laboratory research is a plus Prior experience managing datasets a plus Spanish Language also a plus Phlebotomy training Other Requirements The candidate selected for this position is required to undergo a drug screening test prior to a final offer of employment being made Participation in the medical surveillance program Contact with patients and/or research subjects Potential bloodborne pathogen exposure Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.