The Research Assistant supports clinical research trials by collecting and processing patient samples and maintaining clinical data. They are also responsible for patient scheduling, registration, and performing clinical assessments such as vital signs and ECGs.
Requirements summary
Requires a high school diploma or GED, with a degree in a related field preferred, and mandatory phlebotomy experience. Candidates must have at least one year of clinical experience, familiarity with EMR systems, and knowledge of HIPAA regulations.
high schoolassociate degreebachelor degreeTime ManagementHIPAA CompliancePhlebotomyData EntryMicrosoft Office SuitePatient RegistrationEMR SystemsPatient SchedulingClinical AssessmentsMedical Record ReviewPatient InteractionLab ProcessingCase Report FormsClinical Data CollectionIATA RegulationsSpecimen Shipping
Job description
Where Purpose Meets Progress
At the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation (MHIF), your dedication fuels innovation, transforms patient care, and helps shape the future of cardiovascular medicine. As a Research Assistant, your role goes beyond drawing blood—you become a vital connection between patients and research that leads to life-saving discoveries.
Job Summary
The Research Assistant (RA) supports the ongoing needs of clinical research trials, research databases and other research projects in support of the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation (MHIF) mission. In collaboration with the clinical research team, this individual is responsible for assistance in a multi-functional capacity to carry out all assigned tasks associated with the collection, documentation, and maintenance of clinical data including phlebotomy, lab processing and shipment, patient study visits, study-related tests and procedures, data entry and administrative responsibilities in clinical research trials.
1. Execution of lab duties
Collect, document, process, package, store, and ship patient samples/specimens per study protocol and IATA regulations
Track and maintain lab shipping, samples, storage
Maintain, track and order lab supplies as needed
Maintain temperature logs where appropriate (freezer, refrigerator, drug and device storage room, or any other place that a study requires a temperature log be kept) and report any temperature deviations
Maintain equipment maintenance and yearly calibration
Clean, organize, disinfect lab and lab equipment areas as needed
Maintain, clean and organize shared storage space
2. Assist with study visits
Room and interact with patients
Perform and document clinical assessments (vital signs, phlebotomy, ECG, 6MW/5MW, QoL, etc.) within scope of study protocols, local law and regulations
Clean and disinfect patient care area
Transport patients as necessary
3. Research Participant Scheduling and Registration
Responsible for research participant scheduling, registration, patient tracking systems, generate and mail out appointment letters, and conduct research visit reminder calls to study participants
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Life Insurance
Paid Holidays
Paid Time Off
Vision Insurance
Medical Insurance
Parental Leave
Tuition Reimbursement
Short-term Disability
Long-term Disability
401(k) With Employer Match
Paid Volunteer Time
Employer HSA Contribution
Review study protocols, identifies the scheduling requirements and modifies any tools for accurate scheduling and communicate to the clinical research team as appropriate
Follows study-specific scheduling requirements, arranges for study visits including research visit with clinical research coordinator and/or physician and required protocol-driven testing and procedures
Navigates the complexities of scheduling through the clinic, cardiovascular diagnostic and hospital services utilizing influence and customer service skills
Follows registration requirements according to standards specified for each particular study and related Allina Health operational guidelines
Collaborates with the clinical research coordinators, clinical research managers and Allina Health to successfully register research participant encounters
Responds to registration and scheduling inquiries in a timely and accurate manner
Coordinates patient travel, including hotel reservations and transportation
Communicates regularly with the clinical research manager to coordinate team schedules regularly and provide back-up coverage where needed
4. Data Entry/Special Projects/Imaging transfers
Assists in the completion of source documentation/case report forms and understands good documentation practices when collecting, recording, data entry and query resolutions under the direct guidance of the clinical research coordinator
Enter study required source data into electronic database or other study-related systems
Generate and create study source documentation per protocol eCRF guidelines
Faxes/copies/files case report forms and source documents
Participate in recruitment and pre-screening activities to identify potential participants by reviewing EMR, patient charts and patient database
Assist with the requests of medical records and/or death certificates of potential and current research participants
Redacts personal health information (PHI) from various documents according to confidentiality guidelines
Prepares study visit and patient approach packets
Prepares and mail out ICF packages to potential study participants
Completes study specific imaging transfers for multiple studies
Manage and maintain on-site and off-site archiving and storage process and interfaces with off-site storage vendor
When possible, make suggestions for continuous improvements to the clinical research team as applicable
Work collaboratively with all MHIF employees as part of a positive, supportive culture
Complete other administrative and study-related tasks, as assigned
Core Values in Action
At MHIF, our values aren’t just words—they guide how we lead and work together
Integrity: Do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Operate ethically and transparently.
Innovation: Ask bold questions. Be proactive and curious in improving how we work.
Collaboration: Support one another, build trust, and celebrate success as one team.
Excellence : Own your work. Be accountable. Bring urgency and resilience to solving problems.
Relationships
This position reports to the Clinical Research Manager, Prevention/General Cardiology and supports team members across the broader Clinical Research department. The incumbent interacts regularly with MHIF Research Coordinators and other research staff, Minneapolis Heart Institute (MHI) physicians, Abbott Northwestern staff, and vendors.
What Sets You Apart
Required
High school diploma or GED equivalent. Associate or Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred
Phlebotomy experience
At least one year of experience working in a clinical setting with exposure to medical charts, basic medical concepts, as well as knowledge of HIPPA regulations and patient/sponsor confidentiality
Prior experience working with an EMR system (EPIC highly desirable). Minimum one-year experience working with data management systems and/or Microsoft suite
Strong written and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with team members and contribute to a positive work culture
Strong skills in interacting with and connecting with study participants/patients
Must be organized and able to manage multiple projects; ability to shift priorities as instructed
Ability to deal with ambiguity and changing priorities
Keen attention to detail and high level of accuracy
Strong problem-solving skills
Physical Demands
Walk between hospital, clinic, Allina Lab and office repeatedly up to 8 hours per day
Stand to process lab work up to 4 hours per day
Must be able to work at a computer for extended period of time
Answer phone calls from internal and external sources
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
Occasional travel to other MHI/MHIF locations may be required
Work Environment
This position is fulfilled onsite
Work in a cubicle in a typical office setting on campus
Work in proximity to a hospital/clinic and laboratory setting with limited exposure to blood and body fluids, and dry ice
Total Rewards
In addition to meaningful, mission-driven work, MHIF offers
Competitive salary range of $20 - $25 an hour
Comprehensive benefits including
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Life, short- and long-term disability
Employer HSA contribution
401(k) with employer match and contribution
Generous PTO, paid holidays, and parental leave
Tuition reimbursement and paid volunteer time
Why Join MHIF?
“Small team. Global impact.”
Here, your work has purpose. Your voice is heard. Your career can grow. We are driven by discovery and grounded in compassion—and we’re looking for someone who brings both heart and expertise to the table.
