DESCRIPTION

UCSD Department of Psychiatry is one of the most innovative and productive academic departments in the country, offering challenging career opportunities in the diverse areas of advanced educational programs, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art clinical services. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the individual will work as a Staff Research Associate. Duties include assisting PI and Study Coordinator with day-to-day affairs of study coordination for protocols and administrative tasks associated with protocols at all levels of activity. Under close technical supervision, interact with PIs, Clinical Coordinator, Collaborating Scientists, pre- and post-doctoral fellows in implementing clinical protocols through regulatory approved processes, participant accrual and coordination of study activities. Track patient data in MS Excel and/or other databases. In addition, the incumbent will be trained and will assist in collection and processing of

(1) EMG/PPG testing, computerized neurocognitive assessments and psychosocial scale data
(2) human tissue processing (blood, urine, saliva) for banking

Under the supervision of Principal Investigator (PI), and the Clinical Research Manager, establish and maintain direct communication with PI and Co-Investigators to identify patients appropriate for multiple research studies. Consult with Clinical Research Manager on matters of recruitment and eligibility. Perform standard repetitive procedures of limited variety which include scheduling, preparing, and conducting research visits with study patients. Educate patients and families regarding study treatment, including the expected benefits and side effects of study participation.

Compile and enter data and provide reports as requested by Clinical Research Manager. Assist with the preparation of applications and consent documents for submission to UCSD Human Research Protection Program (HRPP), the San Diego VA, and other subcommittees and regulatory agencies. Assist with the collection of appropriate biological specimens as required by active clinical trial protocols. Other duties as assigned by PI or Clinical Research Manager.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of psychiatry, psychology and/or other mental health services in social science, with emphasis on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Traumatic Brain Injury, and alcohol use disorders.

• Experience interacting with psychiatric populations, in particular those individuals with a history of trauma exposure, traumatic brain injury, and/or alcohol use disorders.

• Proficiency in using database software, including Excel, Word, Access, Power Point, etc. Demonstrated knowledge of Linux-based AFNI software for accessing image data.

• Experience conducting human subject research activities and knowledge of the guidelines related to consent, ethical conduct and protection of human subjects.

• Some experience with statistical and graphing software.

• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to communicate skillfully and interact positively with a variety of people.

• Some experience reading and interpreting research protocols and policies. Ability to maintain documentation required by the university and/or government agency and knowledge of what is required.

• Some experience assisting with manuscript preparation and federal and private grant application preparation.

• Efficient organizational skills necessary to prioritize workload in order to meet deadlines. Ability to recognize problems and correct them as necessary or seek help in correcting the situation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity and/or expertise with computer programming languages or demonstrated programming skills in relation to data collection, analysis and reporting.
• Ability to provide training and work directions to student workers and volunteers.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Some variation of work schedule.