OneOncology·Chattanooga, Tennessee
This role is responsible for the collection, processing, storage, and shipment of human biological specimens for clinical research studies. It also involves maintaining laboratory operations, managing data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary medical teams.
Tennessee Oncology, one of the nation’s largest, community-based cancer care specialists, is home to one of the leading clinical trial networks in the country.
Established 1976 in Nashville, Tennessee Oncology’s mission remains unchanged: To provide access to high-quality cancer care and the expertise of clinical research for all patients, at convenient locations within their community and close to their home.
Our growing network of physicians and locations is based on this mission.
Tennessee Oncology is committed to advancing both the science of detection and targeted treatments, and to making these advances available to every patient.
We believe caring for cancer patients is a privilege.
Why Join Us? We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.
This position will play an essential role in biological specimen collection, processing, storage, and shipment for clinical research studies conducted at Tennessee Oncology clinics.
Collecting & Processing Human Biological Specimens
May perform phlebotomy and other biological specimen collection and point of care testing, as needed, following established procedures and protocols, ensuring study participant comfort and safety
May serve as an assistant to investigator during dissections or surgery. Provides research support of tissue collection, processing and specimen distribution for research studies and clinical trials in outpatient clinics.
Maintain knowledge of specimen collection devices and tubes.
Maintains laboratory and surgical areas with proper aseptic techniques.
Label, receive and process samples (blood, urine, tissue etc.) for clinical trials per specific protocol guidelines to include logging samples into and out of the department.
Will require travel to location where specimen is being collected to obtain specimens from various sites in. Travel mileage to be reimbursed with properly filled out expense form.
Data and Outside Specimen Management
Request, receive and return tissue samples from outside pathology facilities.
Send tissue blocks to vendor to have slides cut and ship slides to the appropriate study’s lab
Document study participant information and clinical data following stringent data management protocols, while maintaining patient confidentiality
Maintain clear and accurate records, both written and electronic, of laboratory data. Data must be readily accessible by Research Laboratory Manager
Laboratory
Operations:
Organizes work by matching protocol requirements with lab kit supply/inventory management, specimen collection; labeling; sorting specimens; logging specimens; storage, shipment, and tracking as required
Maintain accurate records of all collected samples, ensuring their correct labeling and secure storage
Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team, including researchers, clinicians, and pathologists, to ensure efficient operations and high-quality research output
Receives and directs specimens for send-out testing.
Helps with administrative duties including, completing proficiency testing, Quality control checks, etc. as needed.
Monitors laboratory temperatures including ambient room, refrigerator and freezer temperatures and troubleshoots appropriate deviations.
Follow strict safety protocols, maintaining a clean and safe environment in the lab and during sample collection and processing
Practice safe work practices by using PPE appropriately.
Maintain equipment, keep lab and ancillary clinics stocked with adequate research lab manuals, kits, and supplies
Prepare and perform paperwork and clerical duties as necessary including answering phones, computer entry, etc.
Assist clinical research teams, study sponsors, and central/local laboratories with data collection, sample tracking, and query resolution
Other duties as may be assigned.
Market context
In Tennessee, allied health employers often look for occupational therapists who are already licensed and have home health experience, especially when serving Medicare patients. These roles can be competitive because candidates who meet licensure requirements and bring relevant field experience may align more closely with patient care needs and scheduling demands. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to confirm fit quickly, then prepare to highlight your school credentials, state license, and any Medicare home health work in your application.