Research Assistant - Human Nutrition

at  University of Alberta

POSITION SUMMARY

This Research Assistant position is related to work in clinical nutrition research studies and related activities. The main focus involves body composition, cardiometabolic health, dietary assessment, and e-health. Direct contact with research participants and help in diverse activities as needed are expected. The position is fully in-person (i.e. no remote work).
The Research Assistant will work on several research projects as needed, and in patients with a variety of health conditions. The Research Assistant will primarily work on projects where the study population is individuals with obesity, patients with cancer, cancer survivors, or other chronic conditions. This position is aimed to both coordinate and support the PI and graduate students. The position required someone with substantial knowledge of human nutrition. The position requires a person who can work independently, multitask, and problem-solve effectively and efficiently. The position requires both research and administrative skills, including organizational skills, attention to detail, excellent writing/oral communication, adhering to deadlines and to the University of Alberta policy/procedures and grant agency guidelines.

QUALIFICATIONS

• BSc in Nutrition and Metabolism or related field. Must have an understanding and experience with applied research methods and practices. Preference will be given to registered dietitians.
• Minimum 1-2 years’ experience in a clinical setting for the equivalent demonstrated combined coordination/administrative experience in a health-related field. Previous project management.
• Excellent organizational, analytical and communication (written and verbal) skills, and high attention to detail, especially pertaining to efficient and accurate data entry and documentation.
• Able to perform well in a setting that requires multitasking and a flexible work schedule (early mornings, evenings and weekends are occasionally required).
• Proficient in using information systems including bibliographic management software (e.g. EndNote) and programs including and Microsoft Office Suite software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Knowledge of the University of Alberta policy and Procedures is a significant asset.
• An expertise in nutrition and laboratory experience is considered an asset.
• Knowledge in using ESHA Food Processor Software is considered an asset.
  At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

• Administrative support including responsibility for financials, petty cash and timesheets.
• Developing, maintaining and conducting practices outlined in standard operating procedures, and assisting PI in ensuring these are being followed by the research team.
• Resource to other research projects.
• Train research members as needed.
• Interactions with participants on-site at the Cross Cancer Institute and at the Human Nutrition Research Unit, including recruiting participants.
• Collects participant saliva samples and urine samples during study test days. Performs measurements of energy expenditure, body composition, physical function, muscle strength, anthropometrics, carotid ultrasound, and nutrition assessment with study participants.
• Prepares study meals and study beverage in the metabolic kitchen while following standard operating procedures. Preparations require a high degree of precision and accurate dosing using a combination of analytic scales, transfer pipettes and micropipettes. Follows sanitary practices as outlined in the study protocol and standard operating procedures including sanitizing speciality equipment using an autoclave.
• Processes blood and urine sample in research lab while implementing biosafety procedures.
• Prepares blood, urine, and breath samples for analysis including the shipment of dangerous goods for samples which need to be sent to other institutions for analysis.
• Manages REDCAP information for e-health study.
• Develops and writes
• Communication and consultation with PI(s) regarding revisions to the research protocol, data collection procedures, protocol deviations and study related note-to-files.
• Manages ongoing human ethics amendments/renewals and drafts new submissions for projects yet to be initiated.
• Conduct literature reviews/searches and writes technical and research reports (as required).
• Assist with writing research grant proposals including updating the investigator CV’s and associated reports (as required).