Research Study Assistant

Overview

The Research Study Assistant (RSA) position at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) supports clinical trials within the Department/Division of Surgery – Clinical Research Core. This role functions under the supervision of the Clinical Research Manager and Senior Director, assisting in research and administrative tasks essential to clinical study management and data integrity.

Core Responsibilities

• Manage study activities such as reviewing research protocols and understanding study specifics.
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards in all tasks.
• Under supervision, execute procedures for timely, complete data management including use of work logs and attendance at regular meetings; fulfill regulatory duties as needed.
• Collect, process, and ship biological specimens as required by study protocols.
• Coordinate patient scheduling for assessments and study appointments according to study protocols or instructions.
• Prepare study kits, manage document scanning into Electronic Medical Records with necessary redactions and obtain required signatures.
• Manage medication pickups and returns in coordination with the Research Pharmacy.
• Administer non-invasive research assessments such as questionnaires and surveys.
• Facilitate communication among departments, clinical staff, laboratories, physicians, and external organizations to ensure accurate and timely data retrieval.
• Assist the Data Coordinator by assembling, organizing, and entering clinical data; maintain and update sponsor and institutional databases and logs.
• Perform additional relevant duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is required.
• Proficient working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, with advanced skills in Excel.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Fluency in both Spanish and English is highly desirable.
• Associate’s degree or equivalent education and experience strongly preferred.
• Previous clinical research experience with a solid understanding of HIPAA and GCP guidelines.
• Strong organizational abilities and excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Additional Information

• This position is classified as Grade 102, Officer of Administration, operating under a regular employment status with a 35-hour workweek.
• The salary range for this role is $48,000 to $50,000 per year, determined based on departmental budgets and candidate qualifications including experience, education, and specialty knowledge.
• CUIMC emphasizes recruitment of qualified local residents.
• The university is an equal opportunity employer welcoming applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.