Research Assistant II - San Diego State University Research Foundation

The salary range for this position is $17.25 - $17.50 per hour depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable. 

The South Bay Latino Research Center (SBLRC) seeks to promote and expedite research that improves cardiovascular disease outcomes in low-income Hispanic/Latinos living in the border region of San Diego. The SBLRC is considered the community-based clinical research field site within San Diego State University (SDSU) where research activities are conducted.   The SBLRC primarily focuses on epidemiologic, behavioral, and genetic research in an effort to improve health, well-being, and the care delivered to Hispanic/Latinos who are at risk for, or have, cardiometabolic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  

Housed within the SBLRC, the Hispanic Community Health Study/ Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) is a multi-center, interdisciplinary epidemiological study of Hispanic/Latino populations in the United States sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and other institutions, centers, and offices of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The goals of the HCHS/SOL study include further study of the prevalence and development of chronic disease in Hispanics/Latinos, the role of acculturation in health conditions, and to identify factors that play protective or harmful roles in health among Hispanics/Latinos. This longitudinal cohort study is intended to address a wide variety of health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, and diabetes, among others. The target population recruited from the South Bay area of San Diego County includes over 4,000 persons of Hispanic origin between the ages of 18-74.

Under the direct supervision of the Project Managers, Project Coordinator and Project Director, the Research Assistant II (RAII) position is primary responsible for completing research measurements of the HCHS/SOL participants and its ancillary studies. This position is responsible for performing technical protocols related to the acquisition of specialized measurements, eligibility screening, assist with recruiting study participants, assessing contraindications and scheduling/confirmation of study visits. Makes transportation arrangements and provides detailed instructions for every step of the visit, as needed. The RA II performs clinical assessments (e.g., blood pressure, anthropometry, neurocognitive assessments and Ankle Brachial Toe Index measurements), operates the studies specialized equipment and software; fits participant with proper equipment and obtains quality images and measures, as applicable; accompany participants to off-site testing, and administer informed consents and survey instruments, by telephone or in person.   

The RA II is responsible for but not limited to:

Health Assessments/Interviews 70%

Conduct recruitment and screening of participants for the main study as well as for various ancillary studies. Perform research measurements to include sitting blood pressure, anthropometry, administer questionnaires on various health related topics, informed consent, and HIPAA for the main study and its ancillary studies. Surveys may assess, among others, a wide variety of health topics such as personal medical history, health care utilization, physical activity, neurocognitive assessments, sleep habits, etc. Ensure data collection of each questionnaire is conducted using standardized techniques and administered to study participants in their language of preference. Perform data collection and data entry using the study web-based software program. Conducts technical assessment to obtain Ankle Brachial Toe Index measurements. Administers pre-MRI safety screening questions by phone and in-person with potential study participants. Accurately records participants’ responses to pre-MRI safety screening questions. Enters recruitment and pre-MRI screening outcomes in the study database systems. Completes follow-up calls to participants to obtain additional information about reported possible contraindications to determine MRI safety. Prepare materials for assessments, set up different monitors to collect data on sleep, heart, physical activity, among others and assist with confirmation calls and recruitment efforts. Maintain quality and confidentiality of data collected and follow data entry protocols and guidelines. Adhere to best security and management practices to protect participant data. Completes follow-up calls to participants to obtain additional information, provide reminders and support as needed.

Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned 25%

Perform data collection, data entry according to strict protocol guidelines, and data quality control checks. Ensure data collection of each questionnaire is conducted using standardized techniques according to study protocol. Support the day-to-day study operations and integration of the HCHS/SOL study and its ancillary studies. Work as part of a team to maximize resources for recruitment efforts, and quality data collection. For offsite assessments/testing, , duties may include doing home visit assessments and/or accompany participant to ensure completion of study component at offsite location. Facilitate the visit by assisting with check-in, making arrangements for transportation, and other testing needs. Perform other duties such as upload, download, and transfer data acquired from devices, assist with the preparation of mailings of study materials, tracking and follow up. Maintain confidentiality of study records by adhering to data security protocols.

Administrative Duties: 5%

Maintain clear and timely in-person and email communication with study team. Participate in study related meetings and trainings. Serve as back up for front desk duties, and other administrative assignments. Assist with organization and cleanliness of participants’ breakroom, examination rooms, front desk, common and lobby areas. Assist with cleaning and good care of equipment and study material. Work with Project Managers, Project Coordinator and Project Director to meet study goals. Other duties are assigned as needed.

Knowledge and Abilities

• Knowledge in adherence to study protocols and collection of clinical measurements (e.g., blood pressure, anthropometry, and other measures).
• Knowledge of clinical measures (e.g., blood pressure and anthropometry). Successful completion of training and certification (e.g., questionnaires, blood pressure, anthropometry) before being able to interact with study participants.
• Knowledge in informed consent process and questionnaires administration with good interviewing techniques and research methods.
• Knowledge of general administrative support duties such as reception duties, filing, and clerical tasks.
• Knowledge of basic phone etiquette and use of multi-line phone.
• Knowledge of basic computer skills and effective use Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, Google Suite, etc., to create reports, and documents; attend and participate in meetings; communicate and share documents.
• Knowledge of field data collection, entry and organization.
• Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential documents and information.
• Ability to provide exemplary customer service and work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to complete the Human Subjects Training and Certification upon hired.
• Ability to complete Entire National Institute of Health Data Security Training upon hired.
• Ability to complete training and certification required by study protocol and assigned functions, as needed.
• Ability to adhere to the SBLRC Mandatory Cleaning, Sanitation and Decontamination Protocol.
• Ability to work with a flexible work schedule and adapt to working variable hours as needed to include mornings, evening and weekends.
• Ability to work independently under minimal supervision, and demonstrate leadership skills.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of participant records.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with individuals and groups in English and in Spanish.
• Ability to relate well to others (coworkers, management/administrative team and participants) within the project environment.
• Ability to arrive to work on time, understand and follow posted work rules and procedures.
• Ability to be organized, meet deadlines, display detail orientation; possess good judgment and common sense.
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-culture sensitivity when interacting with participants from a variety of socioeconomic and culturally diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to meet deadlines and to demonstrate efficient time management skills.
• Ability to provide reliable transportation to and from various research sites.
• Highly motivated and self-starter.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills both oral and written.
• Great attention to details; possess good judgment and common sense.

Experience/Education:

• Completion of sufficient lower division coursework to successfully perform the required duties of the position, or equivalent of one year of full time progressively responsible related experience.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

• Completion of bachelor’s degree in public health or related field.
• Previous experience working in a similar research setting.
• Previous work in the field of community based research studies.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (reading, writing and speaking).

Additional Applicant Information

• Candidate must reside in California or live in a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets, IV Employer.