Genetic Coun. I

Company: Partners HealthCare
Location: Boston
Posted on: May 29, 2023

Job Description:

Working in the Neurological Clinical Research Institute (NCRI) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) the genetic counselor will collaborate with and support the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) multidisciplinary clinical research team. The Genetic Counselor is a key component of a team working to define the field of ALS genetic research. The majority of work will remain in the research realm; however, there will be opportunity to assist with complex ALS cases within the MGH ALS Multidisciplinary clinic or MGH Brain Health Clinic.

• Work with the principal investigator(s) to oversee coordinator and project management preparation, submission, and maintenance of IRB, FDA, NIH and other regulatory and research documents.
• Assist with protocol and informed consent development for research studies involving both asymptomatic and symptomatic people at risk for inherited forms of ALS: design the genetic counseling and return of genetic results portion of these research protocols; help direct the use of appropriate mental health, quality of life, and other questionnaires around the time of genetic testing.
• Perform pre-screening for appropriateness of genetic testing in asymptomatic and symptomatic people at risk for inherited forms of ALS for research protocols.
• Perform patient and family genetic risk assessment: collect and evaluate medical and family histories; incorporate knowledge gained from complex medical and genetic literature from varied resources.
• Provide information regarding the etiology, inheritance, incidence risks, and natural history/prognosis for people with an ALS causative gene; facilitate patient understanding of genetic, medical and psychosocial information including risks, testing options and procedures, test results and their implications; perform psychosocial assessment during genetic consultation, and provide grief counseling as needed; answer genetic testing related study participant inquiries and act as a liaison between participants and study-related parties.
• Assist with return of genetic results within research protocols, including both CLIA and non-CLIA genetic testing using Sanger Sequencing, repeat-primed PCR, whole exome sequencing (WES), and whole genome sequencing (WGS): analyze the clinical significance of variants; assist with evaluation of coincident ALS causative genes; discuss limitations of different forms of genetic testing and confirmation of non-CLIA testing with CLIA testing.
• Help to develop and maintain research participant and patient databases in familial ALS.
• Participate in monthly translational medicine meetings at the MGH NCRI to promote collaboration between basic science and clinical researchers in neurodegenerative disease across the Partners Healthcare institutions
• Represent the research program at meetings, national and international research consortia.
• Coordinate with referring physicians to provide information regarding available research projects and to maintain a strong referral basis.
• Assist with the development of grant application materials, monitoring study budgets, and writing manuscripts.
• Other duties as assigned Qualifications
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Effective written and oral communication skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Familiarity working with adult patients and their families.
  • Computer literacy, particularly comfort with using computer databases.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Good Clinical Practices, FDA, HIPAA and IRB regulations; an understanding of research procedures; and the ability to function independently following an initial training period.
  • Familiarity with genomic databases and variant classification.
  • Analytical skills
  • Ability to identify problems and develop effective solution
  • High level of discretion and judgment
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team Licenses/Certifications:
    • Board certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling required
    • Current licensure by the Mass Board of Registration of Genetic Counselors, or eligibility to apply for licensure required
      Education:
      Master's degree in Genetic Counseling required from a program accredited by the American Board of Genetic Counseling
      Working Conditions:
      2.5 days per week. occasional evenings or weekends may be required for special educational events or meetings. Shared office space in the Neurological Clinical Research Institute.
      EEO Statement
      Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives, and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Keywords: Partners HealthCare, Boston , Genetic Coun. I, Other , Boston, Massachusetts