Research assistants provide direct support to Clinical Research Coordinators and Research Physicians to ensure that clinical trials run smoothly. They are responsible for administrative as well as clinical tasks, such as maintaining patient records, preparing patients and rooms for examination, assisting physicians with exams, collecting vital signs and performing blood draws (phlebotomy). Research Assistants must also enter clinical data into a secure, online databases. 
 
Research Assistants must have a high school degree or GED at a minimum, with certification through an accredited medical assistance program (or similar program) being preferred. Research Assistants need excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and must have proficient computer skills. At Great Lakes Clinical Trials, Research Assistants must be fluent in medical terminology.