Patient-facing Research Assistant
About this role
At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.
📍 Rolling Hills Estates, CA🏥 Peninsula Research Associates🕒 Full-Time | Monday through Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm
Launch Your Career in Healthcare & Research
Are you a recent graduate looking to gain hands-on experience in healthcare or clinical research? This is an exciting opportunity to work directly with patients, support clinical trials, and build real-world skills alongside experienced research professionals.
As a Clinical Research Assistant, you’ll play a key role in supporting study visits, interacting with patients, and ensuring research is conducted safely and accurately. Whether you're planning a future as a Clinical Research Coordinator, healthcare provider, or pursuing advanced education, this role provides a strong foundation and meaningful exposure to a fast-paced, patient-centered environment.
What You’ll Do
• Study Preparation
• Prepare and maintain study documents, including source charts, study binders, regulatory binders, and laboratory kits.
• Schedule and confirm subject appointments, including ancillary visits such as diagnostic imaging and vendor-related services.
• Understand study protocols, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance with FDA, Sponsor, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
• Assist in participant recruitment by prescreening electronic medical records, following up on referrals, and coordinating outreach efforts.
• Participant Care and Interaction
• Provide subject care, including explaining study procedures, answering questions, and monitoring diary compliance.
• Conduct study procedures, such as collecting vital signs, performing ECGs, and completing study questionnaires.
• Perform follow-up and reminder calls to ensure subject adherence to visits and study protocols.
• Assist with participant stipend tracking and processing.
• Laboratory and Specimen Handling
• Perform blood draws (phlebotomy) and process biological samples, including shipping per study requirements.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and temperature control systems, ensuring compliance with study protocols.
• Generate and file weekly temperature reports for laboratory systems.
• Data Entry and Management
• Enter and verify study data in Electronic Data Capture (EDC), Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS), and other databases.
• Address system-generated queries and perform quality control checks to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with case report forms (CRFs) and source document completion, including query resolution under study coordinator guidance.
• Administrative and General Support
• Maintain and organize participant charts, Investigator Site Files, and other regulatory documents.
• Support clinical research coordinators (CRCs) by filing, scanning, and faxing required documents.
• Clean, stock, and maintain exam rooms and department supplies to ensure readiness for participant visits.
• Participate in investigator meetings, study teleconferences, and trainings.
• Assist with onsite or remote clinical research monitor visits.
What Makes You a Great Fit
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow step-by-step procedures
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
• Strong communication skills and a professional, patient-focused demeanor
• Comfortable interacting with a diverse patient population
• Proactive, dependable, and eager to learn new skills
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and priorities throughout the day
• Professional, reliable, and eager to learn
Requirements
• Bachelor's degree OR 2 years of college in a health-related program OR completion of a medical assistant, phlebotomist, or other healthcare-related program OR experience and training in conducting clinical trials with knowledge of ICH GCP required
• CNAs, Medical Assistants, Phlebotomists, and other patient-care healthcare roles heavily preferred
• Experience with medical terminology and laboratory procedures preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to collect, compile, and analyze patient data accurately.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), and customer service skills.
• Easily able to learn new computer or website applications (i.e. Electronic Medical Records, Clinial Trial Management Systems, etc.)
• Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to a fast-paced work environment.
• Problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.
• Strong organizational skills with the proven ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines
• Phlebotomy training and experience heavily preferred; willingness to become fully trained required
Why This Role is a Great First Step
• Gain hands-on experience working directly with patients in a clinical setting
• Learn the fundamentals of clinical research and how trials are conducted
• Build transferable skills for careers in healthcare, research, or biotechnology
• Work alongside experienced professionals who provide training and mentorship
• Create a strong foundation for advancement into roles like Clinical Research Coordinator or beyond
• Make a meaningful impact by helping bring new treatments and therapies to patients
If you're looking to turn your academic experience into a meaningful, patient-focused career, this is a powerful place to start.
California Pay Range
$22—$27 USD