Job Description: Research Compliance Officer
Position Overview:
The Research Compliance Officer plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements in medical research activities. This position requires a highly organized and detail-oriented individual with a strong understanding of research compliance principles and regulations. The Research Compliance Officer will collaborate with various stakeholders to establish and maintain effective compliance programs and practices.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop and implement comprehensive research compliance programs and policies to ensure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
2. Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas of non-compliance and develop corrective action plans.
3. Collaborate with research staff, investigators, and external partners to provide guidance and support on compliance-related matters.
4. Stay updated on industry trends, changes in regulations, and best practices related to research compliance, and communicate relevant updates to the organization.
5. Oversee the review and approval process for research protocols, ensuring compliance with institutional policies, IRB requirements, and applicable regulations.
6. Conduct training sessions and workshops to educate researchers and staff on research compliance policies and procedures.
7. Investigate and report any instances of non-compliance, ethical violations, or research misconduct, ensuring timely resolution and appropriate disciplinary actions, if necessary.
8. Develop and maintain effective working relationships with regulatory agencies, professional organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.
9. Collaborate with legal counsel to interpret and provide guidance on complex compliance issues.
10. Prepare and submit accurate compliance reports to management, regulatory bodies, and grant funding agencies as required.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, life sciences, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
2. Proven experience (3+ years) in a research compliance role, preferably in a healthcare or academic setting.
3. Thorough understanding of applicable regulations and ethical standards relating to medical research, such as FDA regulations, HIPAA, and human subjects protections.
4. Excellent knowledge of research compliance principles, auditing techniques, and quality assurance practices.
5. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address compliance issues proactively.
6. Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex compliance information to diverse audiences.
8. Proficient in using computer applications and software related to research compliance (e.g., electronic protocol management systems, data management tools).
9. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
10. Strong ethical and professional conduct, with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Note: This job description outlines the primary duties and requirements of this position but is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that may be required. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support the organization's research compliance efforts.