Clinical Research Technician

Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and scientifically minded Clinical SPF Research Technician to join our dermatology testing team. In this role, you will be on the front lines of sun protection research, ensuring that sunscreen products are safe, effective, and compliant with international regulatory standards (such as FDA, ISO, and COLIPA).

You will be responsible for the precise application of test materials and the monitoring of human subjects during UV exposure trials. This is a high-stakes role where accuracy is paramount; a difference of a few milligrams or seconds can significantly impact the validity of a clinical study.

Key Responsibilities

• Study Execution: Conduct in vivo SPF testing by applying precise amounts of sunscreen products to the skin of human volunteers.
• UV Exposure Management: Operate specialized UV solar simulators and monitor exposure times to determine the Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) for each subject.
• Data Collection: Accurately record skin reactions, timing, and dosage in electronic data capture systems or physical lab notebooks.
• Subject Safety: Screen volunteers for inclusion/exclusion criteria (e.g., skin type, medical history) and provide post-test care instructions.
• Equipment Maintenance: Calibrate and maintain radiometers and solar simulators to ensure consistent UV output.
• Regulatory Compliance: Strictly adhere to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to maintain lab accreditation.

Requirements

Required Background & Education

• Education: An associate or bachelor’s degree in biology, Chemistry, Nursing, Medical Assistant or a related Life Science field.
• Experience: 1–2 years of experience in a clinical trial environment, dermatology office, or analytical laboratory is preferred.
• Skin Science Knowledge: A foundational understanding of the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype scale and how human skin reacts to UV radiation.

Skills & Requirements

• Manual Dexterity: Must have a "steady hand" for the precise application of products over specific surface areas.
• Analytical Rigor: Ability to perform basic calculations and follow complex technical protocols without deviation.
• Professionalism: Excellent interpersonal skills for interacting with clinical trial participants from diverse backgrounds.
• Vision: Normal color vision is essential to accurately assess skin redness (erythema) during evaluation.
• Schedule: Flexibility to work around "sun" hours, as some testing cycles require specific timing for skin evaluations (e.g., 16–24 hours post-exposure).

Preferred Qualifications

• Current certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
• Experience using a spectrophotometer or colorimeter.
• Prior experience with the ISO 24444 or FDA 2011 sunscreen testing protocols.