Biorepository & Laboratory Services (BLS) Tissue Procurement Specialist

Company: University of Minnesota
Location: Saint Paul
Posted on: March 16, 2023

Job Description:

Apply for JobJob ID347141
LocationTwin Cities
Job FamilyResearch-Support
Full/Part TimeFull-Time
Regular/TemporaryRegular
Job Code8352P1
Employee ClassCivil Service
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As part of the Clinical & Translational Science Institute (CTSI), the Biorepository & Laboratory Services (BLS) program provides centralized biospecimen support services to basic, translational, and clinical researchers. The Biological Material Procurement Network (BioNet) division of BLS provides high-quality support to all aspects of the BLS study protocol: screening, enrollment, biospecimen procurement, sample processing, biobanking, and distribution. Bionet also supports the biospecimen needs of investigator protocols and clinical trials. Bionet serves as i) a technical resource for investigators and their study teams and ii) a research liaison for clinical services to streamline research requests while prioritizing patient care and confidentiality. BLS is looking to add a full-time Tissue Procurement Specialist to the growing BioNet division.

This position reports directly to the BLS Program Director.Essential Functions:
(20%) Participant Recruitment and Enrollment for BLS Study Protocol
* Screen potential participants for specimen collection: review medical charts and procedure schedules, leverage knowledge of surgical procedures and disease indications, determine expected specimens, apply patient inclusion and exclusion criteria, etc.
* Enroll patients by obtaining informed consent (both in-person and using REDCap eConsent)
* Document screening and enrollment process in appropriate databases (REDCap and OnCore)
* Evaluate BLS supported protocols (e.g., specimen needs, patient inclusion and exclusion criteria, etc.) to offer screened cases to study teams and external partners
* Assign external partners, study teams, and BLS repository to cases using specimen prioritization criteria

(15%) Clinical Trial and Investigator Protocol Support
* Review specimen procurement requests for non-BLS study protocols (e.g., clinical trials and investigator protocols)
* Verify informed consent prior to specimen procurement
* Undergo training with appropriate partners for high complexity protocols

(30%) Specimen Procurement for BLS protocol, clinical trials, and investigator protocols
* Follow Good Clinical practice, UMN policies, and lab safety procedures
* Coordinate with clinical services (e.g., procedure staff, surgical pathology, and clinical labs) to procure human biospecimens
* Prepare collection kits according to protocol instructions and SOPs
* Perform all laboratory techniques associated with specimen procurement: gross examination of organs and tissues, sample processing, aseptic technique, biosafety cabinet usage, decontamination, Biosafety level 2 sample handling, etc.
* Process specimens according to SOPs
* Distribute biospecimens to appropriate research personnel
* Package and ship biospecimens
* Maintain detailed specimen records
* Coordinate after hours specimen procurement with Pathology and other clinical services

(20%) Data Collection, Entry, and Validation
* Maintain HIPAA compliant practices
* Perform collection and entry of all relevant study data: medical chart (e.g., procedure data, treatment history, pathology reports, etc), sample processing, sample distribution, etc.
* Record data in appropriate BLS study protocol databases (REDCap, OnCore, and BSI)
* Prepare and distribute abstracted data reports
* Document and report data inconsistencies

(10%) Administrative and Program Support
* Act as a liaison and source of technical knowledge for research teams and clinical services
* Review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
* Support other BLS divisions as needed
* Perform tasks as assigned by Lead Procurement Specialist, Procurement Coordinators, and/or Program Director

(5%) Equipment and Supplies
* Manage inventory and supplies to ensure uninterrupted workflow
* Coordinate shipping and receiving of study protocol materials
* Monitor and maintain laboratory equipment; report and coordinate equipment malfunction as needed
* Respond to after hours critical equipment malfunction (e.g., ultra low freezers and LN2 tanks)
Qualifications


All required qualifications must be documented on application materialsRequired Qualifications:
* BA/BS in Health, Sciences, or related field or a combination of related education and work experience equal to 4 years
* Knowledge or experience with clinical, laboratory, and/or research workflows
* Proficient data entry and computer skills
* Ability to follow standard operating procedures and research protocols

Preferred Qualifications:
* Experience working with patients in a clinical and/or research setting
* Experience with human subjects research protocols and obtaining informed consent
* Knowledge of HIPAA regulations
* Experience with medical charts and EPIC
* Knowledge of medical terminology including anatomy, procedures, and disease indications
* Experience distinguishing and identifying human tissues
* Experience with processing and storage of biological samples
* Experience with biological lab techniques including clean and/or sterile technique
* Biorepository, histology, and/or pathology work experience
* Experience with universal precautions, lab safety procedures, and/or blood borne pathogens
* Experience with Microsoft Office software
* Working knowledge or ability to learn and utilize electronic databases

How To Apply


Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).
Diversity


The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.
Employment Requirements


Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University's Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit:
About the U of M


The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

Keywords: University of Minnesota, St. Paul , Biorepository & Laboratory Services (BLS) Tissue Procurement Specialist, Healthcare , Saint Paul, Minnesota