A BRIEF OVERVIEW

The Center for Autism Research (CAR) is conducting a wide range of studies seeking to identify the causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to explore effective interventions and other supports for families throughout the region who are affected by ASD. Working at CAR provides the opportunity to be a part of innovative, break-through research on a complex developmental disorder that affects 1 in 31 people in the United States. Most studies at CAR involve behavioral evaluations, brain imaging, and genetics aimed at explaining the underlying mechanisms of this complex disorder.
We are seeking a full-time Clinical Research Assistant I (CRA I) to collaborate on a number of clinical research studies at CAR that include (but are not limited to) innovative interventions and/or clinical trials for ASD, language and motor development, and genetic disorders associated with ASD. The ideal candidate is highly organized, has excellent people skills, is self-motivated and curious, and possesses an analytical mind. Project coordination will be a key part of this position, requiring the CRA to organize workflows, guide work-study students, monitor multiple tasks simultaneously, and support progress reports.
CRA duties may include but will not be limited to: assisting in all aspects of participant recruitment, including contacting parents and teachers to obtain their consent, scheduling visits and data collection calls, distributing consent forms, and maintaining accurate records; collecting data on preschool, school-age children, adolescents and adults through various study paradigms in the lab or in homes (videotaping/audiotaping activities, one-on-one testing of children) and administering phone-based standardized screenings or tests; organizing data collected through paper and pencil or online questionnaires and tests, compiling and reducing large quantities of data under the direction of the principal investigator; performing data entry, coding and analysis, entering testing data into databases and/or spreadsheets, assisting with statistical analysis of data using statistical software and Excel; supporting work-study students; assisting with IRB protocol amendments, poster presentations, and assisting with publication preparation (including conducting literature reviews, creating figures, etc.); coordinating with collaborating research groups.
The CRA will work as part of a team composed of developmental psychologists, clinical psychologists, physicians, and computer scientists. CAR is a collaborative environment; we are looking for a self-motivated team player with excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills to support our research efforts. Prior experience with some or all of these duties is a plus but is not necessary; many Research Assistant duties can be learned on the job. Successful applicants will be fast learners who enjoy working in a bustling research environment.

EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma / GED - Required
• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, child development, pre-med, or similar, with some prior research experience preferred.

EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous relevant clinical research experience - Required
• At least one (1) year of relevant clinical research experience - Preferred
• Experience working with children, adolescents or adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental disorder, and their families is preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Statistical knowledge and interest; ability to use/learn a statistical software package (e.g., SPSS, R) is preferred.
• Computer skills including Word, Excel, stimulus presentation software and database software are preferred.
• Familiarity with IRB and human subject protection.
• Ability to function independently in a clinical research setting, and to take active direction from a supervisor.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills; ability to contribute as a team player.
• Excellent organizational ability and ability to multi-task, handle deadline-related stress, meet deadlines, and pay attention to detail.
• Ability to handle confidential materials.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including up to two evenings per week and up to 1
• Desire and ability to manage a team of students to achieve short- and long-term goals.
  To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, professionals working onsite—at any CHOP location, for any portion of time—must be vaccinated for COVID-19. Learn more.
  EEO / VEVRAA Federal Contractor | Tobacco Statement

• Provide technical and administrative support in the conduct of clinical research:
• Patient/research participant scheduling
• Patient/Research Participant screening for inclusion/exclusion criteria or case history
• Data collection
• Data entry
• Data management
• Laboratory sample processing
• Clinical research study procedures or questionnaire administration
• Organization of research records and/or other study related documentation
• Research Study Compliance
• Adhere to IRB approved protocols and compliance with HIPAA and handling confidential materials
• Comply with Institutional policies, SOPs and guidelines
• Comply with federal, state, and sponsor policies
• Additional Responsibilities may include:
• Consent subjects, with appropriate authorization and training
• Document and report adverse events
• Maintain study source documents
• Complete case report forms (paper and electronic data capture)
• Assist with IRB/regulatory submissions
• Complete case report forms or other study documentation (paper and electronic data capture)
• Follow-up care
• Order materials/supplies
• Schedule research meetings