Patient-facing Research Assistant
Job Description
At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.
đź“Ť Rolling Hills Estates, CA
🏥 Peninsula Research Associates
đź•’ Full-Time | Monday through Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm
Launch Your Career in Healthcare & Research
Are you a recent graduate looking to gain hands-on experience in healthcare or clinical research? This is an exciting opportunity to work directly with patients, support clinical trials, and build real-world skills alongside experienced research professionals.
As a Clinical Research Assistant, you’ll play a key role in supporting study visits, interacting with patients, and ensuring research is conducted safely and accurately. Whether you're planning a future as a Clinical Research Coordinator, healthcare provider, or pursuing advanced education, this role provides a strong foundation and meaningful exposure to a fast-paced, patient-centered environment.
What You’ll Do
- Study Preparation
- Prepare and maintain study documents, including source charts, study binders, regulatory binders, and laboratory kits.
- Schedule and confirm subject appointments, including ancillary visits such as diagnostic imaging and vendor-related services.
- Understand study protocols, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with FDA, Sponsor, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
- Assist in participant recruitment by prescreening electronic medical records, following up on referrals, and coordinating outreach efforts.
- Participant Care and Interaction
- Provide subject care, including explaining study procedures, answering questions, and monitoring diary compliance.
- Conduct study procedures, such as collecting vital signs, performing ECGs, and completing study questionnaires.
- Perform follow-up and reminder calls to ensure subject adherence to visits and study protocols.
- Assist with participant stipend tracking and processing.
- Laboratory and Specimen Handling
- Perform blood draws (phlebotomy) and process biological samples, including shipping per study requirements.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and temperature control systems, ensuring compliance with study protocols.
- Generate and file weekly temperature reports for laboratory systems.
- Data Entry and Management
- Enter and verify study data in Electronic Data Capture (EDC), Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS), and other databases.
- Address system-generated queries and perform quality control checks to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
- Assist with case report forms (CRFs) and source document completion, including query resolution under study coordinator guidance.
- Administrative and General Support
- Maintain and organize participant charts, Investigator Site Files, and other regulatory documents.
- Support clinical research coordinators (CRCs) by filing, scanning, and faxing required documents.
- Clean, stock, and maintain exam rooms and department supplies to ensure readiness for participant visits.
- Participate in investigator meetings, study teleconferences, and trainings.
- Assist with onsite or remote clinical research monitor visits.
What Makes You a Great Fit
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow step-by-step procedures
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
- Strong communication skills and a professional, patient-focused demeanor
- Comfortable interacting with a diverse patient population
- Proactive, dependable, and eager to learn new skills
- Ability to balance multiple tasks and priorities throughout the day
- Professional, reliable, and eager to learn
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree OR 2 years of college in a health-related program OR completion of a medical assistant, phlebotomist, or other healthcare-related program OR experience and training in conducting clinical trials with knowledge of ICH GCP required
- CNAs, Medical Assistants, Phlebotomists, and other patient-care healthcare roles heavily preferred
- Experience with medical terminology and laboratory procedures preferred.
- Strong attention to detail, with the ability to collect, compile, and analyze patient data accurately.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and customer service skills.
- Easily able to learn new computer or website applications (i.e. Electronic Medical Records, Clinial Trial Management Systems, etc.)
- Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
- Problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.
- Strong organizational skills with the proven ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines
- Phlebotomy training and experience heavily preferred; willingness to become fully trained required
Why This Role is a Great First Step
- Gain hands-on experience working directly with patients in a clinical setting
- Learn the fundamentals of clinical research and how trials are conducted
- Build transferable skills for careers in healthcare, research, or biotechnology
- Work alongside experienced professionals who provide training and mentorship
- Create a strong foundation for advancement into roles like Clinical Research Coordinator or beyond
- Make a meaningful impact by helping bring new treatments and therapies to patients
If you're looking to turn your academic experience into a meaningful, patient-focused career, this is a powerful place to start.