Clinical Research Assistant

Job Summary
The Clinical Research Assistant is responsible for providing research and administrative support for ongoing and emerging clinical research activities within the Nat Hawkins Research Laboratory in the Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia. The incumbent will support the operational and data-related functions of cardiology and heart failure research projects led by Dr. Nathaniel Hawkins, and will interact predominantly with the Research Project Manager and project leads within the lab.

The position is primarily desk-based and involves data entry, basic data extraction, research documentation, and support for clinical research workflows. The role requires familiarity with basic clinical and medical terminology to accurately interpret and manage research data derived from clinical sources. This position does not involve wet lab or in-lab experimental work.

Organizational Status
The Research Assistant reports directly to the Research Project Manager and works closely with research coordinators, project managers, and investigators within the Nat Hawkins Research Laboratory. The incumbent will also interact with clinicians, research staff, and collaborators involved in cardiology and heart failure research projects.

Work Performed

• Performs routine data entry and updates research databases (e.g., REDCap, Excel, study trackers) in accordance with established study protocols and procedures.

• Assists with basic data extraction from clinical source documents, electronic health records, imaging reports, or study forms.

• Applies foundational clinical and medical terminology knowledge when interpreting and entering data.

• Conducts basic data quality checks to ensure completeness, consistency, and accuracy of entered information.

• Flags missing, unclear, or inconsistent data elements to the Research Project Manager or supervisor.

• Maintains organized electronic filing and documentation systems for study materials and project records.

• Supports preparation of routine study logs and basic summaries as directed.

• Performs minimal literature searches to support defined research tasks when requested.

• Ensures adherence to privacy, confidentiality, and data security requirements.

• Performs other related duties as required.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Work is performed in accordance with established protocols and procedures. Errors may impact data integrity, study timelines, and reporting accuracy. Issues beyond routine scope are escalated to senior staff.

Supervision Received
Reports to the Research Project Manager and may receive task-specific direction from Dr. Nathaniel Hawkins or designated project leads.

Supervision Given
None.

Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation and a minimum one year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred.

• Foundational knowledge of clinical or medical terminology is required.

• Current enrollment in a health-related university program is an asset.

• Experience with data entry and research databases (e.g., REDCap).

• Familiarity with clinical research environments or healthcare documentation.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow structured protocols.

• Ability to work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision.

• Strong time management and organizational skills.

• Understanding of privacy and data security practices in clinical research.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience supporting cardiology or heart failure research is an asset.