Job Description
Position Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Neuropathology, is seeking an experienced Researcher Associate to join their team. The Researcher Associate will interpret medical records of decedents to identify cases that meet study-specific eligibility criteria. The Researcher Associate will screen hospital records and daily decedent lists at UAB Hospital to identify potential candidates for brain donation and research participation. The Researcher Associate will review medical records in detail to assess eligibility for research enrollment and will communicate with treating teams, nursing staff, and other hospital personnel as needed to coordinate potential cases. The Researcher Associate will work with attending autopsy pathologists to approach families or next of kin in a professional, compassionate, and ethical manner to introduce the research program and guide them through the informed consent process for brain donation. The Researcher Associate will coordinate logistics of tissue procurement with pathology, autopsy services, and research staff to ensure timely and appropriate specimen collection. The Researcher Associate may assist with specimen collection during and after the autopsy in accordance with established protocols. The Researcher Associate will maintain accurate and timely documentation of screening, eligibility, and consent activities and ensure compliance with IRB protocols, HIPAA regulations, and institutional policies. The Researcher Associate may be responsible for data entry, tracking of specimens, and maintenance of research databases. The Researcher Associate will participate in ongoing program development and process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, compliance, and overall program effectiveness.
General Responsibilities
As a Researcher Associate, this intermediate-level position will require you to independently conduct more complex studies and analyses, contributing to the advancement of research projects. With greater autonomy, you will design experiments, interpret data, and collaborate with senior researchers to develop and refine research protocols. Your role may also include mentoring junior staff and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Screen hospital records and daily decedent lists to identify potential candidates for brain donation based on study criteria.
Review medical records to assess eligibility for research enrollment.
Communicate with treating teams, nursing staff, and other hospital personnel to coordinate potential cases.
Approach families or next of kin in a professional, compassionate, and ethical manner to introduce the research program and guide them through the informed consent process for brain donation.
Coordinate logistics of tissue procurement with pathology, autopsy services, and research staff.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of screening, eligibility, and consent activities.
Ensure compliance with IRB protocols, HIPAA regulations, and institutional policies.
Assist with data entry, tracking of specimens, and maintenance of research databases.
Assist in collection of specimens including tissue and fluid from autopsies.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Hourly Range: $ 19.80- $ 32.15
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a related field OR Associate's degree in a related field and two (2) years of related experience OR High School diploma or GED and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.
Preferences
Preferred degree in a relevant field (biology, neuroscience, public health, or a related discipline)
Experience with human subject’s research and informed consent processes
Prior experience in tissue banking, pathology, or autopsy services
Knowledge of IRB protocols and regulatory compliance
Experience working with diverse patient populations
Experience in clinical research, patient coordination, or healthcare setting preferred.
Key Skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in sensitive or emotionally challenging situations
Ability to work independently and manage time-sensitive tasks
High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.