This position is to work on a research project studying the aging eye to better understand Alzheimer’s disease and the aging brain, conducting in-person eye exams (OCT, OCTA, vision, eye pressure) with older adults. The job includes conducting eye exams using OCT/OCTA machines and performing visual acuity and eye pressure exams. The Research Specialist will be supporting and working 100% in-clinic for the Eye ACT study.

With direction from the Research Project Manager, operationalizes and implements protocols and procedures on research project(s). Oversees broad-based enrollment, recruitment, and/or data collection procedures. Independently performs and/or oversees complex data collection activities. May assist with budget development and compliance, and with ensuring that IRB regulations and timelines are met. May function as a project manager for small, simple studies. May oversee ad-hoc initiatives or special projects. Must be qualified to give direction to other study staff and assist with hiring (act as lead though not as direct supervisor). Receives no instruction on routine work and minimal instruction on new projects. Requires research experience and the frequent use of independent judgment and discretion in non-routine matters.

Job Summary:

Essential Responsibilities:

+ Recruitment/Data Collection Activities: a) Independently oversees (and may perform) complex recruitment and/or data collection activities requiring specialized skills, education, or experience (e.g., medical record reviews, interviews, mailed questionnaires, physical measurements, and quality assurance). b) Implements operational activities of research project in adherence to study timelines. c) May provide operational consultation to research project teams in specialized areas of data collection.

+ Systems/Tracking - Development & Maintenance a) In partnership with the Project Manager, develops & implements a broad array of data collection instruments, protocols and systems to manage recruitment, enrollment, follow-up, and data quality. b) Develops (and may maintain) computer files, databases, and/or computer tracking systems for project documentation, monitoring, data collection, and data quality. This may include systems that require a sophisticated understanding of research methodology. c) Ensures proper maintenance of project documentation in compliance with regulations.

+ Project Management a) May oversee day-to-day operational activities of a research project. b) May assist with IRB submissions, HIPAA compliance, budget development & monitoring, and/or federal & funding agency reporting. c) May function as the project manager of simple research studies that are small in scope. d) Under the supervision of Project Manager, may summarize literature reviews and assist in the writing of progress reports, presentations, grant proposals, and manuscripts. e) May oversee ad-hoc initiatives or special projects (or phases of larger initiatives) related to needs of KPWHRI, Research Operations, or the Research Specialist group.

+ Training/Oversight/Mentoring a) Trains and/or provides coaching and mentoring to study staff. May assist in hiring study staff.

+ Administration & Communication a) Participates as part of the research team by attending meetings, recording minutes, identifying and communicating problems, and proposing solutions. b) May provide administrative support for the research study, including ordering supplies, scheduling/coordinating meetings, filing, copying, etc. c) Plays an active leadership role in the Research Specialist group (and may participate in the Project Manager group), serving on workgroups or providing feedback to RO leadership.

Basic Qualifications:

Experience

+ Minimum six (6) years of experience working in health care or health research. If candidate has bachelors degree or higher, will accept two (2) years experience working in health care or health research. Relevant paid intern or volunteer experience may be considered towards the experience requirement.

Education

+ High School Diploma OR General Education Development (GED) required.

License, Certification, Registration

+ N/A

Additional Requirements:

+ Intermediate or demonstrated knowledge of research methodology and data collection modalities relevant to the project (e.g., medical record review, interviewing, participant assessment, recruitment and retention).

+ Relevant computer proficiency.

+ Intermediate knowledge of the fundamental principles of research involving human subjects.

+ Advanced written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

+ Experience conducting exams using OCT/OCTA machines.

+ Advanced and applied knowledge of research methodology and data collection modalities relevant to the project (e.g., medical record review, interviewing, participant assessment, recruitment and retention).

+ Advanced knowledge of the fundamental principles of research involving human subjects.

+ Advanced written and verbal communication skills.

+ Advanced skills in documentation of protocols, procedures, guidelines.

+ Bachelors degree in health sciences or health-related discipline.

COMPANY: KAISER

TITLE: Research Specialist III - Eye Research

LOCATION: Seattle, Washington

REQNUMBER: 1320811

External hires must pass a background check/drug screen. Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with Federal, state and local laws, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran, or disability status.