Research Consultant 3, BRaIN Lab

Job Description

The Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Consultant 3 to join their team.

About this Opportunity

The BioRepository and Integrated Neuropathology (BRaIN) Laboratory’s mission is to advance human brain science, with emphasis on brain aging and neurodegeneration, neurotrauma, and neurooncology, through human brain donation and analysis using, and developing, the latest quantitative methods. The BRaIN Lab focuses on generating extensive qualitative and quantitative neuropathological data, including traditional neuropathological assessments, digital image analytics from neuroimaging (MRI), scanned microscopic images, and organ and tissue reconstructions, biochemical and immunoassays, molecular analyses including RNA sequencing, in association with accompanying clinical, exposure, pharmacy, and psychometric data.

The Research Consultant 3 manages the biorepository database and specimen tracking systems, supports specimen request fulfillment, provides data for stakeholder reporting, and supports research analytics. The core focus of this role is maintaining and modernizing the brain biorepository data infrastructure, enabling researchers to efficiently identify and access appropriate specimens, and ensuring accurate and timely data reporting to internal and external stakeholders.

This is a full-time, day shift position located at Harborview Medical Center. The specific work schedule will be discussed with the hiring manager.

The salary information is provided below.  

Distinguishing Characteristics

• Lead and oversee the development, maintenance, and evolution of the data management systems, with a focus on modernizing legacy infrastructure toward current best practices. 

• Responsible for data quality control, integration of database with laboratory information management system, report generation, data sharing processes, and assist with manuscript writing as assigned. 

• Help coordinate our growing repository of collected brain and tissue specimens, including specimen tracking, inventory management, and distribution records. 

• Serve as a technical resource for coding and automation solutions that improve data workflows across the lab. 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Serve as main point of contact for database-related activities across a range of projects. 

• Manage users and user rights across multiple projects and platforms. 

• Manage data integration from outside sources, including linkage of LIMS with other internal databases. 

• Direct the development of new data collection instruments, as well as update existing metrics. 

• Provide REDCap technical assistance through data collection and data sharing; develop REDCap training and train users on methods as needed. 

• Design and execute the data quality management plan; develop standard operating procedures for data entry. 

• Conduct data quality checks to identify potential data entry and calculation/coding errors. 

• Combine data from multiple sources to create interim and final datasets. 

• Maintain specimen inventory records and support tracking of specimen distribution and chain of custody to fulfill researcher requests and comply with biorepository protocols. 

• Collaborate with project leadership on scope, timeline, and budget for data-related activities. 

• Summarize findings in tables, figures, and dashboards; communicate information to project leadership and collaborators. 

• Contribute to manuscripts and presentations for internal and external audiences. 

• Provide data extracts and summaries for progress reports, grant reporting, and updates to institutional and funding-agency stakeholders. 

• Assist with the development, maintenance and evolution of the LIMS.

• Assist with the laboratory resource requests relating to tissue distribution.

• Participate in lab and other meetings and provide regular status updates.

• Review work lists and prioritize work in conjunction with the PI; interact with the research team and collaborators.

• Assist with a variety of other special projects.

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in quantitative fields such as biostatistics, statistics, informatics, computer science or a related field.

Additional Qualifications

• Four to five years of significant relevant experience.

• Experience with REDCap or comparable data collection and management platforms. 

• Experience with programming languages (primarily R, Python).

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel skills. 

• Demonstrated experience managing research databases and data workflows. 

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a research environment. 

• Exceptional attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• MA/MBA with some relevant experience or PhD 

• Experience in life sciences, healthcare, or technology industries strongly preferred. 

• Familiarity with LIMS software for biorepositories  

• Experience with version control tools such as Git. 

• Experience building data dashboards or automated reporting tools (e.g., R Shiny, Tableau, Power BI). 

• Experience with database modernization, migration, or ETL processes. 

• Familiarity with cloud-based data platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud). 

• Experience with data privacy and security compliance, including de-identification workflows and data use agreements. 

• Previous experience supporting progress reports, grant reporting, or stakeholder communications in a research context. 

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology

A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.

Please visit our website to learn more about our department.

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$78,840.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$104,400.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

UAW Research

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.