Clinical Investigation Technician - Invest. Cancer Therapeutics

The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.

The primary purpose of the Clinical Investigation Technician position is to collect specimens ordered for patients and deliver them to the laboratory for processing.  Impacts the quality and timeliness of specimen review.

Key Functions

1.   Specimen collection and processing

-          Collect and store the patient samples for analysis in the laboratory.

-          Accurately label all samples.

-          Enter sample data into database in accordance with prescribed procedures.

-          Process samples according to protocol requirements (e.g., centrifuge to obtain plasma or serum).

-          Label, pipette, and transfer to appropriate containers and store at specified temperature.

2.   Recordkeeping.

-     Maintain accurate daily log of all samples collected and serve as contact for status of samples collected from patients on given protocols.

-     Record shipments to sponsor pharmaceutical companies.

-     Serve as an information source of sample status for collaborators and sponsors.

-     Collect and organizes information for project reports.

·         Research-related activities

-          Perform EKGs for protocol patients, as assigned.

-          Attend clinical protocol start-up meetings with sponsor company representatives and institutional clinical personnel to assure that sample collection procedures and forms are fully understood.

-          Package samples so that they arrive at destination in a suitable condition.

-          Arrange shipment of sample boxes with a suitable air freight carrier and contact collaborators or sponsor personnel to coordinate shipments and verify receipt of samples.

-          Handle dry ice.

·         Supply inventory and lab maintenance

-          Maintain adequate stock of general and phlebotomy supplies.

-         Know the procedure for obtaining repair or maintenance for lab equipment.

-         Prepare stock solutions.

-          Perform routine laboratory jobs (glassware washing, contact hazardous waste collection services, package medical waste in biohazard bags, etc.).

-          Learn to operate laboratory equipment and apparatus and perform routine operator maintenance.

-          Maintain alertness and careful attention to avoid injury to self and others due to chemicals and hazardous materials in the laboratory.

·         Other duties as assigned. 

-          Pathology

-          Biopsies

The performance for all expected outcomes is measured by observation by supervisor, reports from faculty and co-workers, the accuracy and timeliness of work produced, and the demonstrated ability to effectively work under stress.  The position also requires one to anticipate needs, recognize situations requiring assistance and have the ability to refer or perform any necessary tasks, and comprehend the goals of the department and take the initiative in making decisions and taking actions to further these goals.

Working Conditions

This position requires:

Physical Demands

Indicate the time required to do each of the following physical demands: