Research Lab Assistant

OneOncology; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Tennessee Oncology is seeking a Laboratory Technician/Phlebotomy specialist to support clinical research across its oncology clinics. The role emphasizes safe collection, processing, labeling, and storage of biological specimens for trials.

You will work with a multidisciplinary team to ensure data accuracy and comply with protocol guidelines, while maintaining patient confidentiality and quality control.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or equivalent and valid driver’s license.
• Certification as Lab Technician/Phlebotomist or related field preferred.
• Associate degree or higher is preferred for advancement.
• Clinical research or oncology experience is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collect and process human biological specimens for clinical research.
• Perform phlebotomy and related procedures per protocols.
• Maintain aseptic techniques in lab and surgical areas.
• Log and track specimens; ensure correct labeling and storage.
• Prepare paperwork; assist with data collection and QA checks.
• Travel to satellite sites for specimen collection as needed.

Skills

Independent decision making

Pipetting/sterile technique

Communication skills

Excel/Word proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Valid Driver's License

Lab Technician/Phlebotomy certification

Associate degree or higher preferred

Clinical research/oncology experience preferred

Job description

Tennessee Oncology, one of the nation’s largest, community-based cancer care specialists, is home to one of the leading clinical trial networks in the country. Established 1976 in Nashville, Tennessee Oncology’s mission remains unchanged: To provide access to high-quality cancer care and the expertise of clinical research for all patients, at convenient locations within their community and close to their home. Our growing network of physicians and locations is based on this mission. Tennessee Oncology is committed to advancing both the science of detection and targeted treatments, and to making these advances available to every patient. We believe caring for cancer patients is a privilege.

Why Join Us?

We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.

Job Description

This position will play an essential role in biological specimen collection, processing, storage, and shipment for clinical research studies conducted at Tennessee Oncology clinics.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collecting & Processing Human Biological Specimens
  • May perform phlebotomy and other biological specimen collection and point of care testing, as needed, following established procedures and protocols, ensuring study participant comfort and safety
  • May serve as an assistant to investigator during dissections or surgery. Provides research support of tissue collection, processing and specimen distribution for research studies and clinical trials in outpatient clinics.
  • Maintain knowledge of specimen collection devices and tubes.
  • Maintains laboratory and surgical areas with proper aseptic techniques.
  • Label, receive and process samples (blood, urine, tissue etc.) for clinical trials per specific protocol guidelines to include logging samples into and out of the department.
  • Will require travel to location where specimen is being collected to obtain specimens from various sites in. Travel mileage to be reimbursed with properly filled out expense form.
• Data and Outside Specimen Management
  • Request, receive and return tissue samples from outside pathology facilities.
  • Send tissue blocks to vendor to have slides cut and ship slides to the appropriate study’s lab
  • Document study participant information and clinical data following stringent data management protocols, while maintaining patient confidentiality
  • Maintain clear and accurate records, both written and electronic, of laboratory data. Data must be readily accessible by Research Laboratory Manager
• Laboratory Operations:
  • Organizes work by matching protocol requirements with lab kit supply/inventory management, specimen collection; labeling; sorting specimens; logging specimens; storage, shipment, and tracking as required
  • Maintain accurate records of all collected samples, ensuring their correct labeling and secure storage
  • Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team, including researchers, clinicians, and pathologists, to ensure efficient operations and high-quality research output
  • Receives and directs specimens for send-out testing.
  • Helps with administrative duties including, completing proficiency testing, Quality control checks, etc. as needed.
  • Monitors laboratory temperatures including ambient room, refrigerator and freezer temperatures and troubleshoots appropriate deviations.
  • Follow strict safety protocols, maintaining a clean and safe environment in the lab and during sample collection and processing
  • Practice safe work practices by using PPE appropriately.
  • Maintain equipment, keep lab and ancillary clinics stocked with adequate research lab manuals, kits, and supplies
  • Prepare and perform paperwork and clerical duties as necessary including answering phones, computer entry, etc.
  • Assist clinical research teams, study sponsors, and central/local laboratories with data collection, sample tracking, and query resolution
• Other duties as may be assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to make independent decisions, process information accurately, manage multiple projects simultaneously and be organized.
• Ability to accurately pipette and maintain sterile conditions as required.
• Effective oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills required.
• Strong computer skills especially with Excel and Word spreadsheets.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Valid Driver’s License required
• Training and/or certification as a Laboratory Technician, Lab Technician, Phlebotomist, or Medical Assistant per state/local requirements 1 year experience in the medical field
• Minimum of 2 year experience in a clinic, medical or laboratory setting.
• Associate degree or higher preferred
• Clinical research or oncology experience is highly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be willing and able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be willing and able to travel to satellite clinics & biopsy facilities when necessary.