Clinical Research Assistant II

The Clinical Research Assistant II (CRA II) will be based in the Osher Center's Mind‑Body‑Movement Laboratory and work directly with the Principal Investigator (PI) and the Director to advance the Center. The Center is located in the Division of Preventive Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

This clinical and translational study aims to address knowledge gaps surrounding the biology and scientific basis of acupoints. Based on pre‑clinical studies demonstrating cutaneous sensitization or neurogenic inflammation at specific acupoint locations in animal models of colitis, we aim to translate these findings to human subjects by investigating cutaneous (acupoint) sensitization in IBD.

• Conduct laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) and infrared thermography to measure cutaneous blood perfusion and temperature.
• Perform pressure pain threshold (PPT) assessments.
• Coordinate the collection and storage of biospecimens, including stool and blood samples.

This sham‑controlled, within‑subjects study evaluates whether PBM, a light‑based therapy, affects heart rate variability (HRV) under acute stress.

• Set up and conduct clinical evaluations, including the stress test, and deliver PBM or sham intervention.
• Collect HRV and other physiological data (e.g., electrodermal activity, blood pressure).

• Assist with recruitment and enrollment of study participants.
• Administer phone screens and assess potential participants’ eligibility for inclusion via screening forms and checklists.
• Collect in‑person informed consent and oversee the enrollment process that follows.
• Interact with participants prior to enrollment and maintain communication/compliance throughout the study life‑cycle.
• Actively participate in data collection, including administering questionnaires and collecting biological samples and physiological data.
• Develop and pilot‑test data collection forms and procedures (hardcopy and/or electronic databases, etc.).
• Respond to inquiries regarding study protocol and policy. Serve as liaison or point‑person for the study.
• Communicate with the PI regarding appropriate issues during interaction with participants.
• Plan agendas and provide logistical support for meetings with study teams.
• Collaborate on manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals, including co‑authorship of papers.
• Participate in study decisions and formulation of study‑specific policies and procedures. Identify necessary modifications and implement solutions.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• Ability to work well in a team and independently.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks and set deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Careful attention to detail.
• Computer literacy and word‑processing skills.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism and respect for subjects’ rights and individual needs.
• Ability to manage and maintain accurate records across several ongoing projects.
• Comfort with technology and willingness to learn new research tools and devices; all training will be provided.

Works within legal, regulatory, accreditation, and ethical practice standards relevant to the position as established by BWH/Mass General Brigham (MGB). Follows safe practices required for the position, complies with BWH and MGB policies and procedures, fulfills any required training, and brings potential non‑compliance matters to the appropriate supervisor or hospital staff.

The Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives, and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.