Clinical Research Specialist

At Houston Methodist, the Data Analyst position is responsible for the provision of analytical support of data generated by the department. This position will assist in creating, designing and implementing processes to ensure accurate data collection and input. The Data Analyst position will assist with maintenance of department database and on-going training of end users. This position is responsible for gathering, analyzing and reporting statistical information and patient outcomes to both external and internal customers which may include statistical power and sample size determination, inferential hypothesis testing, algorithm development and numerical methods, data mining and knowledge discovery in databases. Reporting duties for the Data Analyst position will involve the provision of monthly departmental reports and ensuring timely regulatory reporting completion. Additional responsibilities for this position include making recommendations for the implementation of technology and processes required to support the goals of the department with emphasis on regulatory compliance. The Data Analyst position will complete or assign other data requests.

FLSA STATUS
Exempt

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, physics or related field

EXPERIENCE

• Three years in data analysis, preferably in a healthcare/research setting

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
• Strong background in computer programming
• Proficiency in Excel, Access and shell scripting strongly and ability to utilize multiple software applications
• Familiarity with common imaging tools and database experience and/or experience with neuroinformatic software beneficial
• Previous database project management experience preferred
• Experience in relational database design
• Knowledge of medical practices and terminology strongly preferred
• Excellent analytical / statistical skills
• Experience with report writers preferred
• Excellent communications skills and ability to interact well with medical staff
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Communicates results of queries in database systems and upgrades regarding electronic protocol management system to coworkers, staff and management.
• Completes and works directly with physicians, clinical staff and management on customized data queries and other requests for operational and research needs.
• Fosters teamwork approach in all interactions with peers and team members. Anticipates needs of other team members; proactively offering assistance. Provides contributions towards improvement of department scores for turnover/retention/employee engagement.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provides troubleshooting logic in relation to technical support.
• Provides and/or supervises gathering, entering and auditing of data in database.
• Assists with design and implementation of processes to ensure accurate data collection and input.
• Performs statistical analysis interpretation by preparing reports (monthly, quarterly and/or as needed) on productivity, quality activities, trends and other clinical or business metrics relevant to the department.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conducts routine data processing and implementation of quality control methods.
• Develops standard operating procedures. Ensures compliance with all HIPAA/confidentiality regulations.
• In conjunction with management, participates in performance improvement program for department.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conducts, as appropriate, statistical power and sample size determination, inferential hypothesis testing, data mining and knowledge discovery in databases.
• Responsible for all aspects of clinical data analyses for multiple studies.
• Programs and develops algorithms for numerical methods and develops workflow and data pipelines as needed for project(s).

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collaborates with Technology regarding software system proposals, purchases, installations, upgrades, enhancements and modifications.
• Identifies and assumes responsibility of own learning needs, consults with team experts and seeks continuing education opportunities to meet those needs. Completes and updates the individual development plan (IDP) on an on-going basis. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management.

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ATTIRE

• Uniform: No
• Scrubs: No
• Business professional: Yes
• Other (department approved): No

ON-CALL*
*Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.

• On Call* No

TRAVEL**
**Travel specifications may vary by department**

• May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area Yes
• May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, physics or related field

EXPERIENCE

• Three years in data analysis, preferably in a healthcare/research setting