Clinical Research Assistant

Summary of Post

This role is based at the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI Dublin), Mater Private Dublin. The vision for Cardiology at the Mater Private Network includes establishing an academic cardiology department. A fundamental part of this vision is to ensure that excellence in clinic care is supported by and in turn partners with research and education, both nationally and internationally. Research and education can positively impact outcomes for patients, and drive improvements in quality of care. Specifically, the duties of the post are : The Clinical Research Assistant will work as part of the research team at the Cardiovascular Research Institute Dublin at the Mater Private Hospital. The Research Assistant will work with the Clinical Research Nurse in the areas of Outcomes Research and Clinical Trials. They will participate in recruitment, data collection & entry, and coordination of study visits, as part of a multidisciplinary team. Research Responsibilities

• Work within the standard operating procedures and protocols associated with industry and academic clinical research, ensuring all assigned activities are completed to the highest standard in accordance with ICH-GCP and HPRA / EU Directive requirements.
• Support on-going clinical research projects from participant recruitment through to follow-up, identifying problems early and providing regular feedback to both the Principal Investigator (PI) and research team.
• Liaise with clinical research associates to resolve queries, assisting with monitoring visits, and study close-out activities.
• Ensure patient confidentiality and dignity is always assured and maintained during a clinical trial / research project, in line with the data protection legislation (GDPR).
• Ensure that participants are fully informed of all details pertaining to the clinical trial / research project prior to their enrolment.
• Schedule and conduct study follow-up clinic visits adhering to the research protocol; including data collection, administering questionnaires, recording vital signs i.e. blood pressure.
• Extract required trial data from patient charts, hospital IT systems, ensuring timely and accurate data entry.
• Process biological samples as required, including coordinating sample shipments, ensuring timely collection and appropriate storage and packaging.
• Ensure prompt management of all study related correspondence.
• Prepare study documentation for internal / Sponsor / regulatory audits as required.
• Collect and input data in the PCI Outcomes Registry.
• Attend conferences / study days as required by management.
• Carry out additional duties assigned by the Clinical Research Nurse, as appropriate. Qualifications – (Essential) :
• B.Sc. in a biological science, related area, or equivalent experience Knowledge & Experience – ( Essential) :
• Knowledge of skills required to support research studies
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work with colleagues at all levels
• Computer literate with experience using Microsoft Office packages
• Willing to undertake training in clinical assessment techniques such as phlebotomy, vital signs, ECGs
• Willing to undertake training in the handling and shipment of biological sample Skills & Competencies :
• Communication Skills : Proven ability to communicate complex ideas.
• Project Management Skills : Ability to assist in communicating project plans and ensuring timelines are met.
• Self-starter with the ability to work as part of a team.
• I.T. skills : Knowledge of MS Office suite.
• Conscientious : Have a pro-active approach to work, with the ability to anticipate and escalate problems in advance. Have keen attention to detail and commitment to quality work.
• Flexibility : Can operate flexibly within a busy environment; can shift focus when required. Working flexible hours when required.
• Customer Focus : Have strong customer service skills. Be able to communicate with a high level of initiative, tact, diplomacy and confidentiality.
• Motivated : Display a ‘can-do’ attitude, be committed to CVRI and its development; demonstrate enthusiasm and passion for the role. We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application — we’d love to hear from you.