Research Assistant - Geriatric Psychiatry

The Research Assistant (RA) contributes to the support and management of a randomized controlled trial of cognitive behavioural therapy for older adults with depression. The RA will assist with the study consent process and the administration of outcome measures for the study. The RA may also assist with data capture into Case Report Forms and entry in the study database (REDCap). This individual reports to Dr. Keri-Leigh Cassidy, Principal Investigator, and Gail Eskes, director of research for the Geriatric Psychiatry Section. It is anticipated that interviews for this position will be scheduled in early July. 

The role involves conducting informed consent discussions with patients willing to participate in research, completing Case Report Forms in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI), Manager, or Coordinator, and scheduling diagnostic tests, assessments, and appointments for study subjects. Additionally, the individual administers, scores, and records results for various study tests, such as clinical rating scales and questionnaires, and assists with subject screening by coordinating with clinical care teams.

The RA role also involves acting as a point of contact by answering, screening, and referring telephone calls, emails, faxes, and in-person inquiries. It includes replying to routine correspondence, composing and editing letters, documents, and memoranda, and attending team meetings. The individual is also responsible for performing clerical tasks such as faxing, photocopying, booking rooms and meetings, coordinating incoming and outgoing mail, and arranging courier services. 

In addition, the RA collects study-related data, maintains filing systems for subject and study documentation, and organizes study documents, test results, and other materials. They develop and manage tracking methods using databases and spreadsheets, entering, summarizing, and analyzing data. After a study concludes, they archive documentation and ensure its retrieval. The RA also coordinates the booking of return study visits, arranges data transfers, ensures secure data storage, and follows up with clinical care teams regarding patients enrolled in research studies.