Research Applications Support Specialist

Research Applications Support Specialist

Competition #: 661711
Job Title: Research Applications Support Specialist
Department: Information Technology
Job Category: Research
Employment Status: Permanent Full Time
Number of Positions: 1
Union Affiliation:

Non-Union
Posted Date: January 24, 2012
Closing Date: February 06, 2012
Salary Range: $70,805 - $78,663 per annum



The Applied Health Research Centre (AHRC) at St. Michael’s Hospital is currently seeking a Research Applications Support Specialist (RASS). The RASS will report directly to the Manager, Research Information Systems.
The Applied Health Research Centre (AHRC) is an exciting new research centre that supports the conduct of clinical research activities at St. Michael’s Hospital. The AHRC is staffed by a highly qualified trans-disciplinary research team that is actively engaged in the coordination of clinical trials and observational research. The AHRC’s core services include methodology and biostatistics consulting; protocol and case report form development; project management, data management, site management, and serious adverse event (SAE) management; financial and contract management; clinical monitoring; data analysis and medical writing. The clinical research activities take place in various settings at St. Michael’s Hospital, within the University of Toronto environment, and beyond. This position will offer the successful applicant a challenging and rewarding research environment.
The Research Application Support Specialist will play a key role in advancing information systems and applications serving the AHRC. The successful candidate will be results oriented and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring commitments are met. Specifically, this individual will utilize their technical knowledge and previous experience to design, develop, deploy and support computational solutions that meet the requirements of the research community.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Provide technical expertise with respect to installation, upgrades, enhancements, integration, database administration and maintenance of research systems;
* Provide application support to research data management system and clinical trials management system;
* Ensure application systems offer the highest possible reliability and performance;
* Develop web-based applications;
* Coordinate with external vendors with respect to support, upgrades and project deliverables;
* Provide technical expertise and support for research managers, clinical staff and statisticians through building studies, coding validation procedures, generating reports and data exporting;
* Provide end-user support as required;
* Consult on technical initiatives, evaluate technical project proposals and make recommendations to support overall research goals;
* Provide research and development services which will identify and test new opportunities;
* Prepare system change and development specifications and documentations for support and maintenance of research applications;
* Manage multiple projects as required;
* Develop project plans, coordinate project tasks and maintain project schedules.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* A relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent experience with four to seven years demonstrated experience in information technology or research informatics.
* Preference will be given to candidates with advanced academic credentials or other continuing education/ certifications.
* Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft technologies including Windows Server, IIS, SQL Server.
* Demonstrated proficiency with open source technologies including Apache Web Server, PHP and MySQL
* Experience in developing and supporting web applications would be an asset.
* Preference will be given to candidates with more advanced knowledge of SQL and experience with other database management systems.
* Demonstrated experience with .Net, , C#; experience with other web development platforms and languages would be an asset.
* Strong knowledge of IT security best practices.
* Previous experience with electronic data capture and data management for clinical trials or clinical trials management systems would be an asset.
* Demonstrated flexibility and ability to adapt to change.
* Strong analytical, organization, conceptual and decision-making skills.
* Ability to work within a team environment.
* Ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* High levels of initiative, self-direction, and customer service.
* Demonstrated leadership and commitment to continuous professional learning.
* Demonstrated ability to effectively manage tasks and projects.
* Project Management and consulting experience an asset.
* Ability to participate in an on-call service outside of normal business hours 24/7.
* Must have an excellent attendance record.