Specimen Management Coordinator I

The Specimen Management Coordinator (SMC) is an important part of the Specimen Management Team at the University of Arizona Cancer Center (UACC) Clinical Trials Office (CTO). SMC's are responsible for ensuring the proper collection and processing of various biological samples from study participants. They also perform Electrocardiograms (ECGs) and peripheral blood draws as required. The SMCs serve as the liaison for the Cancer Center clinical trial staff for pharmacokinetic information including preparing study kits for scheduled patients coming to clinic each day. Each SMC works with an average of 10-20 patients weekly and manage upwards of 25 studies on up to 14 unique oncology clinical research teams at any one time. The SMC is involved from the time of the site evaluation visit, site initiation visit, and start up all the way to patients coming off treatment depending on the protocol specimen management requirements.

• Collects samples, processes samples, prepares samples for shipment, and stores samples per study specific protocol guidelines and Laboratory manual specifications.
• Performs ECGs per protocol guidelines.
• Completes and maintains accurate sample collection source documents.
• Sample collection could occur once per visit or up to 6-7 times per visit over 1 or 12 hours.
• Evaluates each patient visit for Pharmacokinetic sample collection requirements.
• Conducts and submits qualifications for Central ECG machines and Holter Monitor equipment.
• Attends off-site biopsy and sample collections as needed.
• Resolves sample and ECG related queries. Ensures all materials are on-site prior to study screenings.
• Ensure the proper and timely processing and shipping of various biological samples.
• Prepares and packs samples for shipment.
• Orders and maintains dry ice supply for shipping needs.
• Schedules sample pickup with sponsor designated courier, completes shipping documents and ensures timely pick-up.
• Assists with specimen management protocol development for Investigator Initiated protocols and serve as a liaison for the Cancer Center and Clinical Trial Staff for PK related information.
• Ensures proper use of laboratory equipment within the pharmacokinetic lab including centrifuges, fridge, -20 and -80 freezers and hood.
• SMCs stay in compliance with OSHA and JACHO standards.
• SMCs confirm that the appropriate equipment is ordered and available for all patients on all IRB approved clinical trial protocols.
• Selects and prepares kits for daily patient visits.
• Receives and logs study related materials into PK Inventory tracking system.
• Ensures PK inventory tracking system is accurate and current.
• Logs and discards expired kits per institutional SOP.
• Maintain constant communication with staff members regarding patient sample status and current inventory of supplies needed for each study.
• Collaborates with Clinical Research Coordinator and RN's to determine sample collection requirements for each patient visit.
• Participate in trainings and staff meetings.
• This includes training from the Clinical Trials Office, University of Arizona, Banner and Sponsors to stay informed of processes and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of specimen processing techniques.
• Ability to set up and collect Electrocardiograms.
• Ability to effectively communicate.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.
• One (1) year of relevant work experience required

• Trained Phlebotomist with documentation of certification OR willing to obtain certification through the CTOs internal certification process.
• Excellent organizational skills.