Clinical Research Associate - Endocrinology (NYORC)

Position Summary

The New York Obesity Research Center, within the Division of Endocrinology, is seeking a Clinical Research Associate to support the technical aspects of a clinical trial focused on obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study involves participants of diverse backgrounds and age groups. The incumbent will be responsible for biospecimen collection, processing, and shipment to the central laboratory, and will assist with study visits at one of the clinical sites participating in a large, ongoing multicenter clinical trial.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to all Columbia University clinical research regulations, including COVID-19 safety protocols
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of protocol procedures related to biospecimen processing
• Complete training and certification in biospecimen processing per study protocol
• Prepare for study visits, including photocopying questionnaires and organizing supplies
• Support participant retention efforts (e.g., mailing letters, birthday cards, appreciation gifts, and occasional phone calls)
• Assist with calibration and standardization of study equipment (e.g., automatic blood pressure cuffs, stadiometers, scales)
• Manage study supplies, including proper storage and maintenance of inventory logs
• Perform blood and urine biospecimen collection, processing, and shipment according to strict protocol
• Escort participants to offsite imaging centers (e.g., brain MRI and PET scan facilities)
• Assist with various aspects of study visits, including providing snacks and meals for participants
• Perform related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in education, training and/or experience
• Minimum of five (5) years of phlebotomy experience in a research setting
• Strong communication skills and ability to interact with a diverse participant population
• Bilingual in Spanish and English
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Highly organized and self-motivated
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks while meeting deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a clinical research environment, with knowledge of HIPAA and Rascal systems