DSRB Lead Analyst, Office of Human Research Protection Programme (OHRPP)

About the role

The DSRB Lead Analyst supports the NHG Health Office of Human Research Protection Programme (OHRPP) in providing high-level administrative support for ethics, so that the research ethics review process remains robust and sustainable. The role assists the Manager in running the Domain-Specific Review Boards, which protect the rights and welfare of human research subjects. It also involves monitoring junior analysts, allocating resources, training and mentoring new analysts, and helping implement IRB-specific policies.

Key responsibilities

• Help review and update research ethical guidelines, policies and standard operating procedures, and perform secretariat duties for the NHG REC
• Supervise administrative support staff for ethics, including work allocation and problem resolution
• Monitor the quality and timeliness of reviews: check that protocols are reviewed consistently with regulations and that review boards' processes, agendas, quorum and minutes are properly handled
• Screen and audit applications and correspondence, and help ensure timely processing of submissions
• Take part in quality improvement projects to improve the ethics approval process
• Act as a resource for investigators and researchers on DSRB policies, procedures and forms, and document all communications with sponsors, investigators, board members and regulators
• Train new analysts to review studies independently, explain the rationale behind application forms and questions, and review studies for continuing development
• Maintain an accurate, up-to-date database of all applications and prepare DSRB-related reports
• Perform operational duties in the absence of the IRB Assistant Director/Senior Manager/Manager, act as main secretariat for ethics conferences and programs, and carry out ad-hoc duties

Required profile

• Degree, preferably in Science, Life Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy or Health Sciences
• At least 5 years of relevant experience, preferably in an IRB setting
• Good understanding of research ethics policies and local regulations
• Professional accreditation such as Certified IRB Professional (CIP) preferred
• Experience in healthcare, research and related training (e.g. CITI and GCP) is an advantage, especially in public healthcare institutions
• Good interpersonal, influencing and team-player skills, able to work independently under pressure

Required skills

• Basic knowledge of quality and process improvement approaches
• Organization, project management, data analysis and strong written and verbal communication skills