Clinical Research Nurse

Position Summary

The Clinical Research Nurse (CRN) is responsible for coordinating and managing clinical research studies conducted through Mercy Research. This role oversees the day-to-day operations of clinical trials, ensuring patient safety, regulatory compliance, accurate data collection, and successful study execution.

The Clinical Research Nurse serves as a key liaison between research participants, physicians, sponsors, Contract Research Organizations (CROs), and the research team. Responsibilities include patient recruitment, study coordination, protocol implementation, investigational product administration, research documentation, and participant monitoring. The CRN also supports staff training and contributes to the continued growth of Mercy's research program while upholding Mercy's Mission, Values, and Service Standards.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Research Coordination

• Coordinate and manage assigned clinical trials from study start-up through completion.
• Conduct study feasibility assessments and support study initiation activities.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of study protocols and ensure compliance with all research requirements.
• Administer or oversee investigational medications, treatments, and procedures as outlined in study protocols.
• Apply clinical judgment to support patient care, protocol adherence, and research operations.

Patient Care & Safety

• Screen, consent, educate, and enroll research participants.
• Perform patient assessments and monitor participants throughout study participation.
• Collect vital signs, ECGs, spirometry, blood glucose readings, and other study-related assessments.
• Monitor for adverse events and ensure participant safety at all times.
• Schedule and coordinate research visits while maintaining a positive participant experience.

Data Management & Regulatory Compliance

• Accurately collect, document, and maintain clinical research data and source documentation.
• Complete case report forms and research records in a timely manner.
• Collect and process laboratory specimens as required by study protocols.
• Maintain study supplies, equipment, and investigational product inventories.
• Ensure compliance with ICH/GCP guidelines, federal regulations, and institutional policies.
• Participate in quality assurance, monitoring visits, and audit activities.

Collaboration & Training

• Partner with physicians, nurses, clinical staff, sponsors, and CROs to ensure successful study execution.
• Assist in training, mentoring, and precepting new research team members.
• Support research assistants, office staff, and volunteers.
• Foster a collaborative, professional, and patient-focused research environment.

Recruitment & Community Engagement

• Assist with participant recruitment initiatives and study awareness efforts.
• Serve as a liaison between Mercy Research, sponsors, and community partners.
• Attend investigator meetings and research-related training opportunities, including occasional travel as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Nursing Diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Licensure

• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the applicable state of practice.

Experience

• BSN: Minimum of 2 years of nursing experience.
• ADN or Diploma: Minimum of 3 years of nursing experience.
• Relevant experience may be gained through a combination of professional experience and educational preparation.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to perform patient assessments and clinical procedures, including vital signs, ECGs, spirometry, blood glucose monitoring, and phlebotomy, or willingness to learn.
• Strong understanding of patient safety and clinical care principles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to effectively interact with healthcare professionals, patients, and community members.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic systems.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while working independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two (2) or more years of clinical research experience.
• Phlebotomy experience.
• Previous experience coordinating or participating in clinical trials.

Why Join Mercy Research?

At Mercy Research, you'll play a vital role in advancing medical discoveries and improving patient outcomes through innovative clinical studies. As a Clinical Research Nurse, you'll combine your nursing expertise with cutting-edge research, working alongside physicians, healthcare professionals, and industry partners to bring tomorrow's treatments to patients today.