The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering access to cutting edge trials throughout the US and Europe. Today, with over 1,300 studies completed, and with research facilities in the United States and in Spain, Portugal, and Ireland, START’s mission is to accelerate the development of new anticancer drugs that will improve the quality of life and survival for patients with cancer and lead to its eventual cure. To date, over 43 therapies conducted at START locations have obtained FDA/EMA approval. Incredibly, while Academic Medical Centers (AMCs) conduct 80% of cancer trials, such trials reach only 20% of the patient population – leaving the majority of patients who are treated in community practices and hospitals without access to a clinical trial when their care journey calls for one. START serves the many – by bringing cancer trials to physicians and their patients in community hospitals and practices when hope is needed most.
 
START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. As an example, in San Antonio, where START was founded, START treated the first patient ever with Keytruda – the most effective cancer drug in medical history.

We are hiring an Infusion Nurse who is responsible for providing direct patient care to individuals who are participants in research protocols that are conducted at START. The Infusion Nurse uses appropriate professional judgment and decision-making in planning and providing care. Nursing care is to be delivered in a manner consistent with the Standard Operating Procedures and standards of practice, and professional evidence-based standards.

Essential Responsibilities

Patient Care

• Administer chemotherapy/immunotherapy/investigational agent to participants (inclusive of parenteral) according to the protocol and applicable regulations.
• Perform study-related activities including but not limited to venipuncture, obtaining blood specimens, IV insertion, and venous access device (central line) management, ECG collection, and vital signs.
• Collect biological samples according to the protocol and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Educate, explain, and inform participants of study procedures.
• Record data obtained according to the protocol and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Use nursing assessment skills to observe participant general well-being and potential adverse events. Document events and take appropriate action as needed.
• Respond to emergency situations based upon nursing standards.
• Provide patient education regarding participation in a clinical trial, chemotherapy/immunotherapy/investigational agent administration and potential side effects.
• Ensure that the dignity, health, safety, and welfare of participants are given the highest priority at all times.

Planning and problem solving tasks

• Prepare for clinic day ensuring necessary supplies.
• Assist with entry and completion of quality standards for EHR/PQRS.

Communicating tasks

• Assist with the training and mentorship of less tenured staff.
• Communicate with providers regarding a change in patient status.
• Communicate and interact with peers and other departments in a manner that is viewed as having a positive effect on patient services and staff morale. Interact effectively with patients/family members and demonstrate sensitivity in regards to cultural diversity, age specific needs and confidentiality.

Protocol Management tasks

• Work with study team to ensure that study related procedures, drug administration, labs, vital signs and ECG are completed. 

Technical and Quality Tasks

• Use skills, knowledge, nursing diagnosis, and clinical judgement in order to provide a high standard of care for participants in clinical trials.
• Remain current with appropriate emergency certifications and company emergency policy and procedures.
• Able to work effectively and efficiently under tight deadlines, high volumes and multiple interruptions.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Licensed Registered Nurse in practicing state.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, and AHA certified program. 
• Previous experience in peripheral IV insertion and management of venous access device(s). 

Preferred Education and Experience:

• 1 year of experience.
• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN).
• Clinical Trial and oncology experience.
• Experience working with Microsoft Office, including Teams, Excel and Word. 
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification, an AHA certified program.  Can be obtained within 90 days of hire. 
• ONS/ONCC Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Certificate™.  Can be obtained within first year of employment.

Physical & Travel Requirements:

• 80% of time spent standing and/or walking.
• Ability to lift up to a 60-pound weight load.
• Very frequent lifting and bending, pushing and/or pulling loads.
• Able to perform manual tasks that require the use of fine muscle motor skills.

Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks
We value our employees’ time and efforts. Our commitment to your success is enhanced by a competitive compensation, depending on experience, and an extensive benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance provided
• Robust retirement planning: 401(k) plan available with employer matching
• Financial security: Life and disability insurance for added protection
• Flexible financial options: Health savings and flexible spending accounts offered
• Well-being and work-life balance: Paid time off, flexible schedule, and remote work choices provided

Plus, we work to maintain the best environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the company. We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

More about The START Center for Cancer Research
Deeply rooted in community oncology centers globally, The START Center for Cancer Research provides access to specialized preclinical and early-phase clinical trials of novel anti-cancer agents. START clinical trial sites have conducted more than a thousand early-phase clinical trials, including for 43 therapies that were approved by the FDA. START represents the world’s largest roster of Principal Investigators (PIs) across its eight clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world. Learn more at STARTresearch.com.

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment?
Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online.

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.