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UBC Hospital Site - Vancouver, BC, Canada
Onsite
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
This position is subject to the satisfactory completion of required background checks.
This is a term position with the possibility of extension subject to project needs and funding availability.
At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.
Job Summary
The Research Assistant/Technician supports the Division of Lower Limb Reconstruction and Oncology’s clinical research by modernizing and maintaining its hip and knee replacement research database. As legacy systems and manual data management approaches are phased out, the Research Assistant will implement modern, scalable, big-data infrastructure. Working with surgeon investigators and the Research Coordinator, the incumbent reviews existing data sources, procedures, and problems, develops technical solutions to improve how clinical and surgical data is collected and organized, and produces reliable data for research and quality improvement activities. The incumbent applies specialized knowledge of research database design and exercises judgment in selecting technical methods and resolving data and workflow problems. Where feasible, the incumbent incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) in the database modernization, and is expected to have some expertise with AI in this capacity.
Secondarily, the RA aids in the design, REB submission, grant application, and data collection processes for large research projects within the division. The RA works collaboratively with other institutions and societies on collaborative multicenter studies. We support the RA to take an active role in their own research within the division, with the goal of manuscript preparation and publication of research articles in scientific journals. Formal training and expertise in statistical analysis is an asset.
Organizational Status
The UBC Department of Orthopaedics has an international reputation for excellence in teaching, research and patient care. Our mission is to create knowledge, advance learning, and improve musculoskeletal health for the community at the provincial, national, and international levels. The Department consists of seven clinical divisions and a division of orthopaedic research, and is comprised of 200+ academic and clinical faculty who choose to contribute large blocks of their time to advance knowledge in the areas of clinical orthopaedics, musculoskeletal science as well as applied biomedical engineering and related basic science areas. This focus allows the Department to be at the forefront of exciting new developments in the areas of minimally invasive joint replacement, improved bone healing, advanced techniques in spinal surgery, innovative arthroscopic techniques, and improved biomaterials and implants.
This position is part of the Division of Lower Limb Reconstruction & Oncology. The incumbent reports to the Director of Research, Dr. Michael Neufeld, and the Division Head, Dr. Don Garbuz. The incumbent also answers to research requests from surgeon investigators, and works closely with the Research Coordinator, who oversees research projects within the Division.
The Division supports professional growth. Employees who demonstrate strong performance and develop the qualifications needed for future roles may be considered for advancement opportunities.
Work Performed
Primary: Clinical research database and technical operations
Secondary: Research support
The incumbent may pursue research and publications within the Division, subject to project priorities and approval. Performs other related duties consistent with the Research Assistant/Technician 4 classification.
Consequence of Error/Judgement
The incumbent exercises judgment in developing technical methods, maintaining data quality, and resolving problems with the Division’s research database and study records. Errors could result in incomplete or inaccurate clinical data, delays to research projects, additional work to correct records, or unreliable information for research and quality improvement. Failure to follow approved protocols or protect confidential patient information could affect study compliance and the reputation of the investigators and Department.
The incumbent works with sensitive clinical information and must use discretion when communicating with patients, investigators, health authority personnel, and other collaborators. Unusual issues, proposed uses of data, and matters requiring clinical, research ethics, or institutional approval are referred to the appropriate investigator, Research Coordinator, or authorized body.
Supervision Received
The Research Assistant works under the supervision of the Director of Research and the Division Head within the Division of Lower Limb Reconstruction & Oncology. The RA also works collaboratively with the Research Coordinator. However, the RA takes the lead role in the overhaul of the clinical database.
Supervision Given
May supervise, direct, and oversee the work of a small group of employees at lower classifications. May have input into staff selection and performance evaluation. The RA works collaboratively with the Research Coordinator to aid in oversight of research projects within the division.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of a university degree in a relevant discipline or technical program and a minimum four years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Some positions may require a graduate degree.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion
Preferred Qualifications
Education: Undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree is considered an asset. A PhD in a related discipline is considered a strong asset.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: