Veterinary Assistant - Clinical Trials

Tufts University; Grafton (MA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in veterinary medicine is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Assistant to support clinical research involving client-owned animals. This role is pivotal in ensuring high standards of patient care and client satisfaction. You will assist in various clinical tasks, from sample collection to data entry, while collaborating with a skilled team. If you are enthusiastic, self-motivated, and eager to contribute to animal welfare, this opportunity offers a rewarding experience in a dynamic environment where your efforts will have a meaningful impact.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of experience in a veterinary setting.
• Familiarity with medical terminology and animal care.

Responsibilities

• Assist with clinical research and patient care for animals.
• Perform sample collection, processing, and data entry.

Skills

Veterinary pharmacology

Animal behavior

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant Program

Tools

REDCap

Thromboelastography (TEG)

Job description

Overview

The Clinical Research Shared Resource (CRSR) at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine oversees clinical research involving client-owned animals. The team collaborates with internal and external entities, including industry sponsors, to design studies, create protocols, generate budgets, develop electronic data forms, support study completion, obtain informed consent, enter data, process biologic samples, and perform quality control. The CRSR also manages the Master IACUC for some research and tracks related activities.

What You'll Do

The Veterinary Assistant supports clinicians, residents, interns, technicians, and students in providing care and client service for animals in clinical trials. They serve as clinical liaisons, updating clients and addressing questions. Key responsibilities include assisting with pilot studies, sample collection and processing, data entry into REDCap, performing thromboelastography tests, and managing assets related to the CPGSR.

Essential functions include:

1. Assisting with clinical research at the Foster Hospital for Small Animals and Hospital for Large Animals.
2. Supporting restraint, care, and treatment of patients, anticipating needs for treatments and supplies.
3. Providing professional service to maintain high client satisfaction and patient care.
4. Coordinating patient flow within and between services.
5. Drawing blood, processing lab work, and administering medications as directed by a veterinarian.
6. Assisting with electronic medical records and REDCap data entry.
7. Providing animal husbandry and hygiene support.
8. Assisting with euthanasia procedures and documentation.
9. Maintaining research binders and coordinating use of donated animals.
10. Managing thromboelastography (TEG) operations, including running samples and maintaining quality control.
11. Maintaining organization and tracking of samples and supplies, including freezer management.
12. Participating in hospital initiatives, assisting with shipping biological specimens, ordering supplies, and updating clinical trial boards.
13. Maintaining a safe, clean work environment, including sterilization and inventory management.
14. Assisting with sample collection, processing, and storage for biomarker and tissue samples.
15. Completing safety training and environmental health documentation.

What We're Looking For

Basic Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent and at least one year of related experience.
• Familiarity with medical terminology, veterinary pharmacology, and animal behavior.
• Ability to safely restrain small animals.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Enthusiastic, empathetic, self-motivated, with a positive attitude.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn electronic medical records.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Completion of a NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant Program.
• Credential as a Certified Veterinary Assistant.
• One or more years of experience as a Veterinary Assistant.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Pay Range:

Minimum $19.20, Midpoint $22.20, Maximum $25.40. Salary depends on experience and internal equity. New hires typically start between the minimum and midpoint.