Job Description

This position has been developed for the purpose of supporting the Forensic Clinical Chairs in the key areas of Correctional Psychiatry, Violence Reduction, Sexual Disorders and Recovery. This role will support research and quality improvement initiatives, under the supervision of the Clinical Chair. In alignment with the overall work of the Forensic Psychiatry Program, this role will encompass a focus on public safety, addressing stigma and discrimination, and changing public attitudes in relation to issues that are central to work within the field of Forensic Psychiatry.

The Research Assistant will support the academic mission of the Forensic Psychiatry Program. The incumbent will work under clearly defined research requirements and / or supervision. Hours will vary based on current demands (e.g. grants, participant availability).

Qualifications:

• Three-year College Diploma in Psychology, Health Sciences or other related discipline required
• Undergraduate Degree in Psychology, Life Sciences or other related discipline preferred
• Masters Degree preferred
• Specialization as a certified clinical research associate (CCRA) preferred
• Minimum 5 years participation in related work environment or equivalent education and training
• Knowledge of medical terminology
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software
• Literature searching skills
• Time management and scheduling skills
• Interpersonal and communication skills to gather information from participants in the research study
• Attention to detail and to ensure accuracy of work
• Organizational skills and ability to set priorities to meet project and task deadlines
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to changing priorities

Responsibilities:

• Arranging participant payment and parking passes for participants (payment from primary investigator accounts)
• Co-ordination of “Consent to Contact” database
• Collect blood (venipuncture), urine and swab samples
• Assist with study co-ordination
• Assist in preparation and maintenance of Clinical Research Files (CRFs)
• Filing and maintenance of study records in storage room
• Monitoring of study equipment (e.g., cold storage) and ensure study equipment is in keeping with regulatory standards
• Photocopying and arranging printing of study materials
• Works under clear direction and defined guideline to assist in administrative duties associated with patient recruitment
• May assist in conducting telephone or clinical recruitment interviews to collect study participant data
• May assist in scheduling patient meetings and/or the administration of various tests related to the research project.
• Prepares detailed notes of all interactions with participant and transfers data to appropriate system
• Follows instruction to maintain documentation, records and study-related hardware/equipment for the study and may be required to assist in transcribing interview notes
• Compiles processes and enters data into electronic databases with accuracy and attention to detail. Validates that the correct information is entered and follows up to obtain missing or outstanding information and/or to resolve discrepancies in the information
• Organization of journal club, research meeting and educational seminars – room bookings, liaise with speakers, room set-up
• Assist with event planning
• Assist with Grand Rounds and Clinical Rounds preparation
• Maintenance and preparation of academic and Common CVs – all faculty
• Reporting to SJHH Research Administration on faculty productivity (required bi-annually)
• Managing/ updating faculty academic websites, including SJHH, McMaster and ResearchGate profiles
• Helping with formatting and submission of manuscripts, including use of reference software and conducting literature searches for manuscripts and grants
• Review and copyedit manuscripts and grants, maintaining and circulating current list of grants and available funding, and a ssistance with grant submission
• Assisting with student placements (SJHH Learner Office; Volunteer Services; Security; Department of Psychiatry)
• Monitoring Research Area for compliance with SJHH Standards