Clinical Research Assistant

About this role

👋 Meet knownwell https://www.knownwell.co/, weight-inclusive healthcare for all. Join a dynamic company that is changing the way obesity care is delivered. We offer weight management, primary care, nutrition counseling, and health coaching. Our care model combines in-clinic and virtual care to bring support to patients where and when they need it.

Backed by $50M in funding—including a $25M round https://www.mobihealthnews.com/news/knownwell-secures-25m-oversubscribed-funding-round led by CVS Health Ventures with support from a16z Bio + Health, Flare Capital, MassMutual, and Intermountain Ventures—we’re scaling fast and expanding access to evidence-based obesity care nationwide.

The Clinical Research Assistant (CRA) plays a vital hands-on role in the execution of clinical trials, serving as a key point of contact for study participants throughout their research journey. Working under the direction of the Clinical Research Coordinator and/or Clinical Research Manager, the CRA is primarily responsible for patient-facing activities, including study visits, specimen collection and processing, data entry, and clinical assessments. This role ensures that participants receive high-quality, consistent experience while supporting the accurate and compliant execution of study protocols.

Location: Multi-Site, 15 Oak Street, Needham MA AND 7 Alfred Street, Woburn MA. The ability to travel to and between these clinics is mandatory.

On-site Requirements: Hybrid, mostly on-site.

Reports To: Head of Research

Job Type: Contracted, Full-time

What you'll do:

- Patient Interaction & Visit Support

- Serve as a primary point of contact for study participants during on-site visits, providing a welcoming and professional experience.

- Guide participants through study visit procedures, answering questions and ensuring they feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.

- Assist in the informed consent process, ensuring participants understand study expectations, risks, and benefits prior to enrollment.

- Monitor and document participant well-being during visits, escalating any safety concerns to the supervising Coordinator or Investigator promptly.

- Schedule and confirm participant appointments, send reminders and manage visit logistics to support timely enrollment and retention.

Clinical Assessments

- Perform and document vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, and weight.

- Conduct electrocardiograms (EKGs) per protocol, ensuring proper lead placement and tracing quality.

- Perform phlebotomy (blood draws) in accordance with study protocols and applicable safety standards.

- Administer and document other protocol-specified assessments as trained and permitted by scope of practice.

Specimen Collection & Processing

- Collect, process, label, and store biological samples (blood, urine, etc.) per study protocol and applicable regulatory requirements.

- Ensure proper cold-chain handling and timely shipment of samples to central labs or sponsors.

- Maintain specimen logs and chain-of-custody documentation accurately.

- Ensure proper disposal of biohazardous materials in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.

Data Entry & Documentation

- Collect, process, label, and store biological samples (blood, urine, etc.) per study protocol and applicable regulatory requirements.

- Ensure proper cold-chain handling and timely shipment of samples to central labs or sponsors.

- Maintain specimen logs and chain-of-custody documentation accurately.

- Ensure proper disposal of biohazardous materials in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.

Site & Operational Support

- Assist in preparing exam rooms and ensuring all equipment and supplies are ready prior to study visits.

- Support the Coordinator with site initiation, monitoring visits, and closeout activities as directed.

- Maintain adequate inventory of study supplies and assist with the receipt and storage of study materials.

- Support study staff training on visit procedures as needed.

Who you are:

- Education

- High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in a health-related field preferred.

- Medical Assistant (MA) certification, or equivalent clinical training/experience.

- GCP certification required (or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire).

Experience

- 1+ years of experience as a Medical Assistant or in a clinical setting required.

- Prior clinical research experience is preferred but not required, training will be provided.

- Experience in performing phlebotomy, EKGs, and vital signs in a clinical environment required.

Skills

- Strong phlebotomy skills required.

- Proficiency in EKG administration and basic clinical assessments.

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build rapport with diverse patient populations.

- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation.

- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

- Basic proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) and/or data entry systems.

Physical Demands

- Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the clinical site for extended periods.

- Ability to lift and carry study materials (up to 30 lbs).

- Comfortable with routine exposure to biological samples and clinical environments.

- Occasional local travel may be required for site visits, training, or meetings.

Pay & Perks:

🏢 On-site Opportunity

🩺 Medical, dental, and vision…