Research Pharmacist

Overview

Virginia Cancer Specialists, an affiliate of McKesson Specialty Health and US Oncology, is seeking a Full Time Research Pharmacist for our Fairfax office. Under general supervision, compounds and dispenses medications, drugs, and other medications according to professional standards and practices. Prepares and maintains all necessary records on prescriptions, patient charges and inventory. Consults with nursing and medical staff regarding prescriptions, orders, drug and pharmaceutical detail, patient reactions, errors and complaints. Initiates and follows quality assurance and safety policies and procedures. Monitors compliance with all legal regulations and accreditation organizations. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and Business Standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of clinical trials related to investigational products, including training of pharmacy staff, maintenance of IP binders and drug accountability records, maintenance of IP blinding and unblinding processes, attendance at site initiation visits and feasibility committee meetings, and review of protocols and investigational brochures
• Ensure stability conditions in the pharmacy (i.e. temperature, light, expirations, etc.)
• Build regimens for studies
• Admix drugs as ordered by physician in an accurate and timely manner as per department guidelines and preparing all drugs within OSHA guidelines, interoffice guidelines, as well as clinical trial protocol and pharmacy manual guidelines
• Participate in securing compassionate use care for patients

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited school of pharmacy and current state licensure
• 3-6 years experience as a registered pharmacist
• Hospital experience required
• Oncology background preferred
• Research background preferred
• Current license as a Pharmacist in state of practice
• May supervise the activities of pharmacy technicians

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical demands of this job typically require full range of body motion including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination and the ability to read and note appropriate measurements. Requires sitting/standing for extensive periods of time. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 40 lbs. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to direct contact with patients with potential for exposure to toxic substances, medicinal preparations, and chemotherapeutic agents.