OPT Clinical Research Assistant Jobs
Clinical Research Assistant jobs are well-suited to F-1 OPT students with degrees in biology, public health, nursing, or a related life science field. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization, and employers in academic medical centers and pharmaceutical companies frequently sponsor H-1B visas for strong performers.
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05/08/2026
6600 France Ave S Ste 660, Edina, Minnesota, 55435-1807, United States of America
At DaVita Clinical Research, we find that our best leaders are those who create an inspiring vision, have a desire to shape the future of medicine, and empower their team to achieve success. They enjoy tackling difficult problems and believe that the best way to solve them is through a collaborative environment that involves team efforts. They take ownership of results and instill accountability in those they lead. They are driven, compassionate, strong communicators, relationship builders, and find real fulfillment in challenging and impactful work.
We are looking for a highly motivated, positive and innovative Senior Clinical Studies Research Assistant to aid in the coordination, management and conduct of nephrology clinical research trials in dialysis centers and physicians practices. DaVita Clinical Research (DCR) is a Renal Research site network conducting clinical trials across the country. DCR prides itself on a culture of growth, transparency and feedback and would want our leaders to do that same. We want a teammate who is compassionate, purposeful and motivated by meaningful work.
This position is based in our Edina, MN office, and will help support Clinical Research Coordinators and studies throughout Minneapolis and surrounding areas.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
75% - Executes clinical trial procedures and subject care while complying with Good Clinical Practice, regulatory and protocol requirements.
- Communicates subject or trial procedure information to the Operations Supervisor, Charge Nurse, Investigators, Project Managers and Project Coordinators on an ongoing basis to ensure the safety and integrity of subjects and to ensure data collected for trials
- Ensures compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory, and protocol requirements
- Records study data and maintains source documentation according to Good Documentation Practices.
- Maintains knowledge of research protocols and attends education sessions provided to research staff involved in conducting trial procedures.
- Supports members of study/project teams; reviews source documents, reviews clinical procedures, drafts new procedures or revisions to existing procedures
- Knows, understands, and follows teammate guidelines, employment policies, and department or company procedures.
- Provides consistent, regular, punctual attendance as scheduled
10% - Maintains the cleanliness and organization of the clinical research unit.
- Assists with inventory, order and stocking of food, linens and supplies.
- Assists with the equipment maintenance and calibration program as needed.
10% - Provides input for TM performance evaluations and assists with TM orientation and training.
5% - Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate's degree or higher strongly preferred
- 2 or more years of clinical research experience is required for a senior level assistant. In lieu of clinical research experience 3 or more years of strong phlebotomy skills, Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician, or medical background experience is required.
- Able to work early morning, evening/night/weekend shifts as necessary to support study schedules.
- Attention to detail and organization skills is required
- Strong Data Entry skills is required
- Basic computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook
DaVita Clinical Research (DCR), a wholly owned subsidiary of DaVita Inc., is the research arm of DaVita. DCR innovates through retrospective outcomes research aimed at improving care and quality of life for people with kidney disease. DCR assists pharmaceutical and medical device companies in the design, recruitment and completion of clinical trials using its renal research site network. For 30 years we have helped 500+ clients with their development projects. DCR is based in Minneapolis, MN and operates in locations across the US.
What We’ll Provide:
More than just pay, our DaVita Rewards package connects teammates to what matters most. Teammates are eligible to begin receiving benefits on the first day of the month following or coinciding with one month of continuous employment. Below are some of our benefit offerings.
- Flexible weekly work schedule: This will vary and is based on current business needs
- December Industry wellness break (Week between Christmas and New Year’s Day)
- Comprehensive benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, paid time off, PTO cash out
- Support for you and your family: Family resources, EAP counseling sessions, access Headspace®, backup child and elder care, maternity/paternity leave and more
- Professional development programs: DaVita offers a variety of programs to help strong performers grow within their career and also offers on-demand virtual leadership and development courses through DaVita’s online training platform StarLearning.
Here is what you can expect when you join our Village:
- A "community first, company second" culture based on Core Values that really matter.
- Clinical outcomes consistently ranked above the national average.
- Award-winning education and training across multiple career paths to help you reach your potential.
- Performance-based rewards based on stellar individual and team contributions.
- A comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your health, your financial well-being and your future.
- Dedication, above all, to caring for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure across the nation.
Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience and may fall outside of the range shown. DaVita offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits.
Join us as we pursue our vision "To Build the Greatest Healthcare Community the World has Ever Seen."
Why wait? Explore a career with DaVita today.
At DaVita, we strive to be a community first and a company second. We want all teammates to experience DaVita as "a place where I belong." Our goal is to embed belonging into everything we do in our Village, so that it becomes part of who we are. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and comply with state and federal affirmative action requirements. Individuals are recruited, hired, assigned and promoted without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
This position will be open for a minimum of three days.
The Wage Range for the role is $21.97 - $36.69/hour.
For location-specific minimum wage details, see the following link: DaVita.jobs/WageRates
Colorado Residents: Please do not respond to any questions in this initial application that may seek age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You may also redact this information from any materials you submit during the application process. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Posting Date
05/08/2026
6600 France Ave S Ste 660, Edina, Minnesota, 55435-1807, United States of America
At DaVita Clinical Research, we find that our best leaders are those who create an inspiring vision, have a desire to shape the future of medicine, and empower their team to achieve success. They enjoy tackling difficult problems and believe that the best way to solve them is through a collaborative environment that involves team efforts. They take ownership of results and instill accountability in those they lead. They are driven, compassionate, strong communicators, relationship builders, and find real fulfillment in challenging and impactful work.
We are looking for a highly motivated, positive and innovative Senior Clinical Studies Research Assistant to aid in the coordination, management and conduct of nephrology clinical research trials in dialysis centers and physicians practices. DaVita Clinical Research (DCR) is a Renal Research site network conducting clinical trials across the country. DCR prides itself on a culture of growth, transparency and feedback and would want our leaders to do that same. We want a teammate who is compassionate, purposeful and motivated by meaningful work.
This position is based in our Edina, MN office, and will help support Clinical Research Coordinators and studies throughout Minneapolis and surrounding areas.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
75% - Executes clinical trial procedures and subject care while complying with Good Clinical Practice, regulatory and protocol requirements.
- Communicates subject or trial procedure information to the Operations Supervisor, Charge Nurse, Investigators, Project Managers and Project Coordinators on an ongoing basis to ensure the safety and integrity of subjects and to ensure data collected for trials
- Ensures compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), regulatory, and protocol requirements
- Records study data and maintains source documentation according to Good Documentation Practices.
- Maintains knowledge of research protocols and attends education sessions provided to research staff involved in conducting trial procedures.
- Supports members of study/project teams; reviews source documents, reviews clinical procedures, drafts new procedures or revisions to existing procedures
- Knows, understands, and follows teammate guidelines, employment policies, and department or company procedures.
- Provides consistent, regular, punctual attendance as scheduled
10% - Maintains the cleanliness and organization of the clinical research unit.
- Assists with inventory, order and stocking of food, linens and supplies.
- Assists with the equipment maintenance and calibration program as needed.
10% - Provides input for TM performance evaluations and assists with TM orientation and training.
5% - Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum high school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate's degree or higher strongly preferred
- 2 or more years of clinical research experience is required for a senior level assistant. In lieu of clinical research experience 3 or more years of strong phlebotomy skills, Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician, or medical background experience is required.
- Able to work early morning, evening/night/weekend shifts as necessary to support study schedules.
- Attention to detail and organization skills is required
- Strong Data Entry skills is required
- Basic computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook
DaVita Clinical Research (DCR), a wholly owned subsidiary of DaVita Inc., is the research arm of DaVita. DCR innovates through retrospective outcomes research aimed at improving care and quality of life for people with kidney disease. DCR assists pharmaceutical and medical device companies in the design, recruitment and completion of clinical trials using its renal research site network. For 30 years we have helped 500+ clients with their development projects. DCR is based in Minneapolis, MN and operates in locations across the US.
What We’ll Provide:
More than just pay, our DaVita Rewards package connects teammates to what matters most. Teammates are eligible to begin receiving benefits on the first day of the month following or coinciding with one month of continuous employment. Below are some of our benefit offerings.
- Flexible weekly work schedule: This will vary and is based on current business needs
- December Industry wellness break (Week between Christmas and New Year’s Day)
- Comprehensive benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, paid time off, PTO cash out
- Support for you and your family: Family resources, EAP counseling sessions, access Headspace®, backup child and elder care, maternity/paternity leave and more
- Professional development programs: DaVita offers a variety of programs to help strong performers grow within their career and also offers on-demand virtual leadership and development courses through DaVita’s online training platform StarLearning.
Here is what you can expect when you join our Village:
- A "community first, company second" culture based on Core Values that really matter.
- Clinical outcomes consistently ranked above the national average.
- Award-winning education and training across multiple career paths to help you reach your potential.
- Performance-based rewards based on stellar individual and team contributions.
- A comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your health, your financial well-being and your future.
- Dedication, above all, to caring for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure across the nation.
Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience and may fall outside of the range shown. DaVita offers a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits.
Join us as we pursue our vision "To Build the Greatest Healthcare Community the World has Ever Seen."
Why wait? Explore a career with DaVita today.
At DaVita, we strive to be a community first and a company second. We want all teammates to experience DaVita as "a place where I belong." Our goal is to embed belonging into everything we do in our Village, so that it becomes part of who we are. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and comply with state and federal affirmative action requirements. Individuals are recruited, hired, assigned and promoted without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
This position will be open for a minimum of three days.
The Wage Range for the role is $21.97 - $36.69/hour.
For location-specific minimum wage details, see the following link: DaVita.jobs/WageRates
Colorado Residents: Please do not respond to any questions in this initial application that may seek age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You may also redact this information from any materials you submit during the application process. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
See all 354+ OPT Clinical Research Assistant Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Clinical Research Assistant Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Clinical Research Assistant
Target employers with active clinical trial portfolios
Academic medical centers, contract research organizations, and large pharmaceutical companies run ongoing trials and hire research assistants regularly. These employers have established HR processes for OPT and are far more likely to sponsor H-1B visas than smaller clinics or private practices.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Clinical Research Assistant roles typically qualify under biology, public health, or biomedical science CIP codes. Verify your specific degree program appears on your school's STEM OPT-designated list before applying, so you can confidently tell employers you have 36 months of work authorization.
Get your GCP certification before you apply
Good Clinical Practice certification is a hiring standard across the industry. Completing it before submitting applications signals professional readiness, removes a common employer concern about onboarding time, and gives you a concrete credential to lead with in cover letters and interviews.
Address your OPT timeline early in the process
Hiring managers may not understand OPT authorization. Explain clearly that you're authorized to work immediately and that STEM extension provides a 24-month buffer before any H-1B decision is needed. Framing it this way reduces uncertainty and keeps the conversation focused on your qualifications.
Emphasize hands-on research experience from your coursework
Lab rotations, thesis research, and clinical practicum hours are directly relevant to this role. Quantify your contributions where possible: number of subjects enrolled, protocols managed, or data sets cleaned. Concrete research experience addresses the most common employer hesitation around hiring entry-level candidates.
Apply to roles explicitly listed as OPT-friendly or visa-sponsoring
Filtering for employers who already declare sponsorship willingness eliminates wasted applications and speeds up your job search significantly. Migrate Mate surfaces Clinical Research Assistant roles verified for OPT and H-1B sponsorship, which is especially valuable when your OPT timeline is tight.
Clinical Research Assistant OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Clinical Research Assistant jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Clinical Research Assistant roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you a total of 36 months of work authorization. Eligibility depends on your underlying degree, not the job title itself. Degrees in biology, public health, biomedical science, or nursing science are common qualifying fields. Confirm your specific CIP code with your DSO before accepting an offer.
How often do employers in clinical research sponsor H-1B visas?
H-1B sponsorship is common among larger employers in clinical research, particularly academic medical centers, contract research organizations like IQVIA and Covance, and pharmaceutical companies. Smaller site management organizations and community clinics sponsor far less frequently. Browsing open roles on Migrate Mate lets you filter specifically for employers with a history of visa sponsorship, which saves significant time.
Does a Clinical Research Assistant role count as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Clinical Research Assistant positions generally qualify as specialty occupations when the role requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific life science field. Roles involving protocol management, IRB coordination, or data integrity oversight tend to have the clearest case. Roles described as purely administrative with no degree requirement may face more scrutiny from USCIS during the H-1B petition process.
Can I work as a Clinical Research Assistant on OPT if my degree is in a non-clinical field like statistics or computer science?
Yes, provided the role is directly related to your field of study. A statistics degree supports roles focused on biostatistics, data management, or clinical data analysis within a research setting. You'll need to document the connection between your degree and the job duties when your employer files any future H-1B petition, so keep a clear record of how your work aligns with your academic training.
What should I do if a Clinical Research Assistant job posting doesn't mention visa sponsorship?
Silence on sponsorship doesn't mean a firm no. Many academic and pharmaceutical employers sponsor regularly but omit it from postings. During initial screening calls, frame the conversation around your immediate OPT work authorization and mention that STEM extension provides substantial runway before any H-1B decision is required. Asking directly whether the organization has sponsored before is a reasonable and professional approach.