Research Assistant II

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on performing work related to research and development of new products, innovation, and improvement of products and processes. In addition, it supports the development of new products and innovation. It includes clinical roles focused on research projects and performs basic, translational, and/or clinical research toward solving a specific problem for an entity or community. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower‑level professionals or manage processes and programs.

The majority of the time is spent overseeing the design, implementation, or delivery of processes, programs, and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An experienced level role that applies practical knowledge of the job area typically obtained through advanced education and work experience. Works independently with general supervision; problems faced are difficult but typically not complex and may influence others within the job area through explanation of facts, policies, and practices.

Under the supervision and direction of the Principal Investigator, this position conducts research activities which include, but are not limited to, reviewing and summarizing literature, testing, data preparation and analysis, and assisting with the preparation of manuscripts and presentations.

• Bachelor’s degree in an Educational Related Program, relevant to research.
• Two (2) years of research experience.

• Master’s degree in a quantitative or scientific area of study.
• Three (3) years of academic, clinical, or scientific research in a medical setting.

• Facilitates data collection and ensures that all data is collected in a timely fashion, which includes identifying missing data and implementing data checks, as well as generation of reports.
• Performs tasks which may require familiarity with a variety of protocols, techniques and equipment.
• Maintains and updates records, reports and files as required.
• Assists with preparation of abstracts, presentations, and publications as needed.
• Attends meetings as required, may be asked to take minutes.
• Performs literature searches either relevant to the project(s), else in pursuit of new techniques/ideas to expand relevant basic knowledge.
• Schedules meetings or study visits, as well as calendar maintenance. Logs work performed.
• Assists with the collection, storage, and shipping of biological samples.
• Maintains and updates records in accordance with IRB/WIRB and sponsor requirements.
• Maintains collaborative, team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working group’s achievement of goals, and to help foster a positive work environment.
• Provides day‑to‑day guidance in conducting experiments to lower‑level researchers.
• Assists with planning specific research procedures; develops and troubleshoots new techniques, which have been written up in the literature; proposes alternative experimental procedures to the principal investigator.
• Attends conferences and courses relevant to research topic.
• Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in‑service meetings, and workshops.

• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, and Power Point), and familiarity with databases (e.g., experience using MS Access).
• Computer programming, database, and statistical analysis skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle competing demands in order to meet project timelines.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision as well as in a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to multi‑task and prioritize responsibilities as needed.
• Clinical or scientific knowledge and techniques relevant to area of research.
• Ability to be meticulous and detail‑oriented in following procedures and record‑keeping.

At Tufts Medicine, we want…