Monday, May 9, 2011

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

Specimen Data Coordinator (AD-23768)
About Us
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home of three Nobel laureates, is an independent, nonprofit research institution dedicated to the development and advancement of biomedical research to eliminate cancer and other potentially fatal diseases. Recognized internationally for its pioneering work in bone-marrow transplantation, the Center’s five scientific divisions collaborate to form a unique environment for conducting basic and applied science. The Hutchinson Center, in collaboration with its clinical and research partners, the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s, is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in the Pacific Northwest. Join us and make a difference!
About the Department
The Uganda Program on Cancer and Infectious Diseases (UPCID) is part of the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division (VIDD) at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (FHCRC). UPCID is a joint research effort by Uganda Cancer Institute and FHCRC. Together, we work to:
• Support cutting-edge research of infectious disease and cancer
• Improve patients' access to clinical care
• Train the next generation of researchers to combat infection-associated cancers
Job Summary
Coordinates specimen and related data collection for research studies. Responsible for the intake, collection, coordination, processing, and quality control of specimens and related data.
Responsibilities
The Specimen Coordinator is a key member of the Uganda Program team and will be responsible for the oversight and day-to-day operations related to specimen collection, testing, and management in an international research setting. Under general direction of the Laboratory Operations Manager and Research Operations Manager, the Specimen Coordinator will independently manage the daily organization and coordination of specimen and laboratory related issues with studies involving involving multiple investigators and research staff in the US and Uganda. This position requires working with a high level of independence and initiative. Candidate should be able to think strategically about data management. Candidate should have the ability to establish priorities, multitask, and work proactively and independently as well as part of a larger team. This position includes the exciting opportunity for travel to sites in Africa.
Major Duties
Specimen Management :
• Manage multi-site specimen repository; serve as the repository “gate keeper”. Coordinate sample movement between repository sites and collaborating laboratories, both domestic and international.
• Manage specimen inventory databases.
• Manage any QC specimen database issues. Independently perform QC/QA to ensure data integrity. Evaluate and implement changes to the database as needed.
• Research novel specimen collection and/or specimen handling/processing modalities, source supplies, cost-out various options, and facilitate implementation of new procedures, such as training of site staff.
• Coordinate all international and domestic specimen and specimen supply shipouts, including dry ice and liquid nitrogen shipments. This will require trouble-shooting during off hours (evenings and weekends) when problems arise.
• Procure and ship lab and clinic research study supplies and equipment, identify regional or global vendors as needed; implement and oversee multi-site inventory management systems.
Research Protocol Development and Compliance:
• Assist Principle Investigators in the design of project/study methods related to specimen collection and laboratory research assays.
• Develop research materials pertaining to laboratory assays on a per study basis.
• Ensure relevant approvals are obtained in advance of initiating studies, and that international and national regulations are met (including but not limited to Material Transfer Agreements, agreements with local regulatory bodies, and CDC permits, national and international IRB approvals, etc) by working with regulatory personnel.
• Develop and manage portions of study budgets that pertain to laboratory operations and ensure expenditures are in accordance with grant/contract guidelines.
• Independently advise research study managers regarding established policies, procedures; select/recommend alternative courses of action.
• Liaise with all contract laboratories for agreements on current and future studies, billing & payment. Manage all contract laboratory agreements.
• Facilitate transition and elevation of site towards GCP compliance for pending research clinical trials.
Training & oversight:
• Author laboratory support documents (including Work Practice Guidelines, SOPs, and manuals) and train and oversee international site staff.
• Miscellaneous:
• Devise a variety reports to facilitate critical decision-making by investigators, as well as specimen inventory reports for site review and correction.
• Assist with report writing for grants, ie annual updates.
• Attend team meetings and conference calls.
Perform other responsibilities as required.
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related field and at least three years of related work experience.
• Experience developing and managing budgets.
• Moderate level of competency in Microsoft Excel and Access, including writing and executing queries, and creating simple databases.
• High level of attention to detail, organizational skills, and a commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to problem solve and work independently as well as provide guidance and oversight to subordinates.
• Ability to effectively work with international study teams and research site personnel.
• Ability to travel independently to international sites at least twice a year.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience managing a specimen repository and/or research laboratory experience.
• Experience managing specimen QA programs.
• Experience working on clinical research trials.
• Flexibility with shifting priorities, work schedule, and local technology challenges.
• Experience working with a team in which members are off site.
• International work experience.
• Assertiveness with respect to potential demands of the program.
To Apply
For more information about the position and to apply, please visit the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center website at www.fhcrc.org and search for Job# AD-23768.

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