Psychiatry - Clinical Research Specialist, Sr - Adult Div - Merwin lab

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

Job Description: Clinical Research Assistant, SR

Overview

Our laboratory conducts clinical research focused on the mechanisms and treatment of eating disorders (e.g., bulimia, binge eating disorder) and disordered eating behaviors, particularly in medical populations such as individuals with type 1 diabetes. We utilize digital and mobile technologies to assess physiological, cognitive, and behavioral responses in real-time and deliver interventions in participants' home environments.

Research assistants gain hands-on experience in all aspects of clinical trial research, including:

• Participant recruitment and retention
• Clinical and diagnostic assessments
• Data entry and analysis
• Manuscript and presentation preparation

Key Responsibilities

Operations

• Prepare for study monitoring and audit visits under supervision
• Maintain participant-level documentation for non-complex studies (e.g., questionnaires, data registries)
• Follow SOPs for participant recruitment, screening, and retention
• Schedule research visits and prepare necessary materials
• Conduct and document non-complex study visits and scripted interviews
• Manage participant payments and attend study team meetings

Ethics

• Recognize and report known potential adverse events as outlined in study protocols or investigator brochures

Data Management

• Enter and collect basic study data
• Score validated tests and correct incomplete or inaccurate data under supervision
• Follow SOPs for data quality assurance and security
• Assist with data cleaning, recoding variables, and preparing visualizations and summaries
• Update study progress reports for the PI and collaborators

Scientific Contribution

• Conduct basic literature searches
• Demonstrate understanding of research study design
• Contribute to scientific publications and presentations
• Serve as an author on posters or manuscripts when appropriate

Study and Site Management

• Attend or schedule site visits as directed
• Record participant accrual and consent documentation
• Maintain protocol information and ensure study compliance
• Monitor supplies and equipment for simple studies
• Assist with study closeout procedures

Leadership and Development

• Maintain required Duke and project-specific training
• Attend departmental meetings and training sessions
• Demonstrate organizational awareness and effective communication
• Adapt to change and contribute to team goals

Type of Research

Randomized clinical trial testing an intervention for disordered eating and maladaptive weight control in individuals with type 1 diabetes, under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI) and Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC).

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior patient-facing experience is preferred

Minimum Q