Research Assistant

Overview

Research Assistant role at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. The Division of Infectious Diseases is seeking a Research Assistant to provide technical and research-oriented services with a multidisciplinary research team to support clinical trials, investigator-initiated studies in infectious diseases including HIV prevention and treatment, and vaccine studies.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic clinical research team with the goal of supporting high-quality clinical care, teaching, and research in the academic tradition. The role involves assisting a multidisciplinary team in the implementation and conduct of biomedical research studies in the laboratory and clinic, including epidemiological and clinical research studies that evaluate attitudes towards HIV prevention and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

• Complete complex assignments following standard protocols and SOPs, requiring technical proficiency and the ability to make detailed observations and manipulations.
• Perform PBMC isolation and cryopreservation, biopsy processing, and assist with diverse laboratory techniques including virologic assays, genotyping, and serum/plasma separation.
• Perform assays; prepare stock or working solutions; calibrate equipment; and handle specimen accession, processing, and quality control in accordance with protocols.
• Enter data into the appropriate database and perform quality assurance to ensure timely data entry and transmission.
• Assist in developing/implementing SOPs and participant retention activities.
• Ensure data and study samples are collected, transported, and stored per study protocols.
• Prepare clinical and laboratory forms, materials, and documentation to ensure protocol procedures are followed accurately.
• Conduct informed consent procedures and obtain consent prior to initiating study procedures.
• Assist with participant recruitment, administering questionnaires, and data collection in accordance with study protocols.
• Assist with data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of collected data.
• Ensure communication between team members and the clinic.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree and at least 1.5 years of related experience or equivalent education, training, and experience
• Bright, self-motivated, and highly organized
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail, ability to maintain accurate records, manage multiple projects, and interact with staff at all levels; computer and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and with others in a clinical research setting

• Experience working with young adults and adolescents discussing sexual health and sexual risk
• Knowledge of HIV prevention strategies, HIV/AIDS, infectious disease or related clinical/laboratory research; experience managing datasets
• Spanish language skills
• Phlebotomy training

• Drug screening prior to a final offer of employment
• Participation in the medical surveillance program
• Contact with patients and/or research subjects
• Potential exposure to blood borne pathogens
• Compliance and systems training requirements

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran. Columbia University is committed to hiring qualified local residents.