Principal Investigator (MD) - Rheumatology

About UsHawthorne Health is a leading community site network and home research visit solution provider, with 20+ sites and more than 2,000 research experienced healthcare professionals across the U.S. Hawthorne leverages convenient, trusted, healthcare locations, identified patient data, and intelligent technology to accelerate patient access, improve retention, and reduce study costs. By embedding high-quality research within local communities, Hawthorne makes clinical trials more accessible and convenient for patients. Our community-based model shortens timelines and helps bring better treatments to market, faster.About The RoleHawthorne Health is seeking an experienced Principal investigator (MD/DO) for a part-time, 1099 role. Candidates should have prior experience as a PI or Sub-I on sponsor-initiated, Rheumatology, clinical trials. This role will lead Rheumatology trials within our growing, community-based site network—built to make research efficient, patient-friendly, and investigator-supported.ResponsibilitiesConduct standardized disease activity and damage assessments using validated instruments, including: SLICC/ACR Damage Index, BILAG (British Isles Lupus Assessment Group Index), SLEDAI-2K (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index), CLASI (Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index), Physician Global Assessment of Disease Activity (PGA), and Joint count assessmentAccurately document findings and contribute to ongoing clinical trials, registries, or research protocols as applicableOversee and manage all aspects of clinical trials conducted at the research site, ensuring adherence to the study protocol, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines, and all applicable regulatory requirementsLead and supervise the clinical research team, including sub-investigators, study coordinators, and other site staffDelegate study-related duties appropriately to qualified personnel and ensure proper training and oversightConduct remote review of patient assessments, including physical exams, medical histories, and eligibility screenings, to ensure appropriate participant enrollmentReview and interpret laboratory results, ECGs, and other diagnostic testsMake critical medical decisions regarding participant care, adverse events, and protocol deviationsEnsure accurate, complete, and timely collection and documentation of all study dataCommunicate effectively with sponsors, Contract Research Organizations (CROs), Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), and regulatory authoritiesManage investigational product accountability, storage, and administration according to protocol and with the help of the on-site IP teamParticipate in site initiation visits, monitoring visits, audits, and inspectionsMaintain continuous medical education and stay current with advancements in clinical research and relevant therapeutic areasRequirementsMust be an MD with experience leading at least three sponsor initiated trials as a PI or Sub-ICurrent, unrestricted medical licenseBoard certification in Rheumatology preferredDemonstrated in-depth knowledge of ICH-GCP guidelines, FDA regulations, and other relevant ethical and regulatory requirements for clinical researchProven leadership and team management skillsExcellent clinical judgment and decision-making abilitiesStrong verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex information clearly and conciselyExceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detailAbility to manage multiple complex studies simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectivelyCommitment to ethical conduct and patient safetyLocationThis role requires on-site presence in Diamondhead, MS at least once per week (or more, depending on study needs), with additional work performed remotelyWe may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.