Research Assistant

This position is based at UT Health San Antonio, Long School of Medicine, within the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s & Neurodegenerative Diseases. We are seeking a motivated, highly organized and resourceful applicant with the drive to anticipate needs and complete tasks with efficiency and accuracy. The Research Assistant will support two studies, MarkVCID and Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). MarkVCID is an observational study looking to identify and validate biomarkers for the small vessel diseases of the brain that produce vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). The CADASIL study is looking to characterize the initial presentation and course of clinical, neuroimaging and blood markers for this rare disease.

The successful candidate will work alongside a collaborative team of clinicians, researchers, and staff as part of MarkVCID and CADASIL. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to impactful dementia research and gain valuable experience in clinical and community-based research methods.

The Research Assistant will support study operations, including participant recruitment, scheduling, informed consent, neuropsychological assessments, survey administration, and data collection, entry, and quality control. This position requires sound judgment, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, research-focused environment.

1. Participant Coordination & Data Collection
   • Assist in participant screening, recruitment, scheduling, and informed consent in accordance with study protocols and IRB guidelines.
   • Conduct neuropsychological assessments and scoring under supervision.
   • Administer questionnaires related to lifestyle and behaviors.
   • Escort participants to study procedures, including imaging and clinical assessments.
2. Data Management & Documentation
   • Perform accurate data entry and quality assurance checks using REDCap or other data systems.
   • Extract and reconcile data from existing clinical records or databases.
   • Maintain secure, up-to-date documentation and logs related to participant progress and study milestones.
3. Participant Support & Communication
   • Serve as the primary point of contact for study participants, addressing questions, providing updates, and ensuring a positive participant experience throughout the study timeline.
4. Research Operations & Team Collaboration
   • Attend and actively participate in team meetings, clinical diagnosis consensus reviews, monitoring visits, and imaging safety discussions.
   • Support ongoing and new research activities with flexibility and professionalism.
5. Compliance & Ethical Conduct
   • Complete all required institutional and research protocol trainings.
   • Maintain strict confidentiality of participant information and adhere to ethical research practices.
   • Ensure compliance with IRB, HIPAA, and institutional research guidelines.
6. Other Duties as Assigned.

• Spanish language proficiency (spoken and written) is highly valued for this position.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in basic science is required.

EXPERIENCE:

• Previous research experience is not required, but is a plus.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is highly preferred.