DESCRIPTION

Two major research foci are the pathogenesis of sleep apnea and the metabolic/cardiovascular complications of sleep disorders. The pathogenesis studies include anatomical ones using imaging, upper airway physiology, and control of breathing. These studies are ultimately designed to define the various contributors to apnea in different individuals. The ultimate goal is to define specific therapeutic targets for OSA patients of varying phenotypes.

Under the general supervision study physician and/or primary investigator (PI), and clinical research supervisor in the Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine Division, the research sleep technician will independently perform the overnight sleep technician efforts for a variety of research projects and clinical trials focusing primarily on sleep apnea. This will include running overnight sleep studies, educating subjects about the polysomnographic sleep study, recruitment, and running day visits.

Other responsibilities include: Calibrate and maintain the laboratory equipment, troubleshooting technical issues as they arise; score sleep studies in a timely manner for data analysis as well as participate in the design and modification of research protocols making appropriate recommendations to the supervisor and /or PI as needed; Compose and present sections of research reports and manuscripts; organize the study databases and data backups.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of biology, sleep, clinical sciences as typically attained by a Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience in sleep technology and/or electrophysiology research.

• Experience interpreting medical charts, experience in abstracting data from medical records.

• Knowledge of National Institute of Health (NIH), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), Human Resource Protection Program (HRPP), IATA Shipping of Blood Specimens, and Bloodborne Pathogens.

• Experience with clinical trials participant or study subject recruitment.

• Experience providing in-service training to various research personnel on protocols, processes, and procedures.

• Knowledge of x-rays, scans, and other diagnostic procedures.

• Excellent interpersonal, as well as written and verbal communication skills (using grammatically correct written English and accurate typing) to interact with a diverse population. Excellent phone etiquette skills.

• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups, including professional and non-professional staff and clients.

• Experience using statistical software applications. Knowledge of database, word processing and spreadsheet applications such as Velos, Access, Excel and MS Word.

• Experience in medical assessment and patient interviewing to determine toxicities related to protocol management.

• Experience with laboratory procedures and values and experience in interpreting them to determine patient eligibility and potential toxicities.

• Experience performing clinical research duties in a clinical research environment.

• Experience coordinating study startup activities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Certification as a Clinical Research Associate or Coordinator.
• Experience working with research bulk accounts.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Evenings and weekends required.
• Overnights required.