PK Technician / Specimen Management Coordinator, Cancer Center (Full-Time)

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

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• 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.
• Excellent organizational skills.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelors degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.
• 1 year of relevant work experience required

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

Carolyn Lane | cjenkinson@arizona.edu