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Keep up with the latest from r&d partners, 10 clinical research career paths and progression opportunities, felicia rodriguez.

• October 30, 2023

Clinical research careers contribute to the development of safe and effective treatments and therapies for patients. The responsibilities may vary based on the organization, therapeutic area, and specific study requirements, but they all share the common goal of advancing medical science and improving healthcare outcomes.

Progressing in clinical research jobs involves a combination of experience, education, certifications, and networking. All of these are fairly essential for career growth, although the specific path and opportunities may vary depending on your interests, the organization you work for, and the area you specialize in.

In this guide, we explore some of the many careers in clinical research, from entering the profession to potential progression opportunities.

 Clinical research career paths

Clinical research careers can follow a range of routes. Here are ten clinical research jobs you can go into, along with their responsibilities.

     1. Clinical research coordinator (CRC) An entry-level role, CRCs assist with patient recruitment, obtaining informed consent, data collection, and ensuring protocol adherence. They coordinate study visits, maintain documentation, and communicate with investigators.

    2. Clinical research associate (CRA) Entry-level clinical research associate jobs involve monitoring clinical trial sites, verifying data, ensuring regulatory compliance and study protocols, and assessing the safety and wellbeing of study subjects.

    3. Clinical trial manager Clinical trial managers oversee all operations of a clinical trial, from study initiation to close-out. They manage budgets, timelines, and teams of CRAs, ensuring that trials are executed successfully.

    4. Clinical project manager Clinical project managers manage and oversee multiple trials within a program. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage resources, and ensure that each phase of a project aligns with organizational goals.

    5. Regulatory affairs specialist Regulatory affairs specialists are largely responsible for the administrative side of compliance. They compile, submit, and maintain regulatory documents for approval. You’ll have to stay informed on changing regulations and liaise with regulatory agencies, ensuring that all policies are adhered to.

    6. Data manager Data managers manage clinical trial data, overseeing data collection, cleaning, and database management. They ensure data quality and see to it that all standards are followed, working closely with biostatisticians.

    7. Clinical research scientist Clinical research scientists design study protocols, collect and analyze data, and interpret results. They also write study reports and publish findings in scientific journals.

    8. Medical monitor Medical monitors oversee patient and subject safety during the trial, review adverse events, and make recommendations for study adjustments or halts based on medical knowledge.

  9. Clinical quality assurance auditor Auditors conduct regular inspections and audits to adhere to regulations and quality standards. They identify non-compliance issues and recommend corrective actions.

  10. Clinical research consultant Consultants provide expert guidance on various aspects of clinical research, including study design, regulatory strategies, and data analysis. They work independently or with organizations to solve complex problems.

Clinical research progression opportunities

To advance in clinical research careers, you can further your education by pursuing advanced degrees. These might include a Master’s in Clinical Research or an MBA. You could also obtain certifications relevant to your role, like the Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) or Project Management Professional (PMP).

Networking can also help you to get ahead by building rewarding relationships, connecting with peers and mentors in the industry and learning from more senior professionals. This could involve attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and asking to shadow leaders.

Here’s more detail on clinical research progression, and areas the above ten roles can move into.

1. Senior CRC or Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Clinical research coordinators (CRCs) can progress to a senior CRC or clinical research associate (CRA). Responsibilities include more independent study management, training junior coordinators, and handling complex trials.

2. Senior CRA or clinical trial manager Clinical research associates (CRAs) can progress to a senior CRA or clinical trial manager position. The duties of senior clinical research associate jobs are focused on starting to mentor junior CRAs. Clinical trial managers take on even more responsibility by overseeing an entire team of CRAs.

3. Clinical project manager or senior clinical trial manager Clinical trial managers can progress to clinical project manager roles, which involve managing the entire project portfolio. Senior clinical trial managers then demonstrate their capabilities by handling significantly more complex trials.

4. Director of clinical operations Clinical project managers can look to become directors of clinical operations. Directors play a pivotal role in overseeing the management and execution of clinical research programs within an organization, including teams of project managers and CRAs.

5. Regulatory affairs manager or director Over time, regulatory affairs specialists might be able to take up a manager position, which would involve handling larger portfolios of products. Eventually, you could become a director, overseeing an entire regulatory department.

6. Senior data manager or clinical data scientist Data managers often move into senior roles, which means managing larger datasets. You could then set your sights on becoming a data scientist, specializing in data analysis.

7. Senior research scientist or director of clinical research With experience, clinical research scientists can aim to become senior scientists. You would take on more significant research projects, possibly with the goal of becoming a director. This would mean running an entire research department.

8. Chief medical officer (CMO) Medical monitors can progress to chief medical officers (CMOs), who are responsible for all medical aspects of clinical research within an organization.

9. Senior auditor or quality assurance manager Later in their careers, clinical quality assurance auditors might become senior auditors, overseeing an audit team. You could then take up a quality assurance manager position, managing the entire quality assurance program.

10. Clinical research consultant As a consultant, your options for progression are slightly different. Rather than looking to move into a different role, the goal is usually to build a larger client base and gain expertise in specific therapeutic areas. Your earnings and reputation can then grow as you become an expert in the field.

Progressing your career with R&D Partners clinical research staffing agency

R&D Partners are dedicated to helping you excel in the rewarding field of clinical research. As experienced clinical research job recruiters, we understand that a rewarding career in this industry can shape the future of healthcare, making a positive impact on people’s lives.

Whether you’re looking for entry-level clinical research associate jobs or senior leadership roles, our goal is to provide you with insights, strategies, and guidance to chart your path to success in this ever-evolving industry. As partners to many leading life science organizations on the east and west coast, we can bring you exclusive career opportunities not available anywhere else.

Contact our friendly team to discuss your career options, or browse our current opportunities in clinical research careers.

Our global FSP & strategic staffing firm specializes in Scientific, Clinical Research, and Engineering.

Explore our top job opportunities.

We offer life sciences niche functional service provider & strategic staffing solutions to help you reach your goals.

How To Get Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Experience

• by Kunal Sampat
• July 5, 2018
• in Clinical Operations

Do you want to start a career in clinical research? Do you want to get a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) job in ANY organization? 

Well, you’ve landed in the right place.

There are a ton of CRA jobs out there. But there is one major concern most employers have with entry-level candidates.

Employers want applicants to have relevant CRA experience. Your resume doesn’t even make it to the hiring manager’s desk because you don’t have two years of CRA experience.

How are you able to get CRA experience when they don’t really teach you to become a CRA in college?

• You’ve gone through four years of college education and have a degree engineering, science or management
• You’ve spent years working as a foreign doctor or even had your own private practice as a clinician
• You’ve successfully completed a certification in clinical trial management

You certainly have the right skills for a CRA role. But you’re finding it almost impossible to get your foot in the door.

And let’s be honest. Most people in clinical research learn how to be a CRA on the job. Through some mysterious way, they get hired and trained to become a CRA.

In this article, I’ll share with you everything I know that will help you build your clinical research resume. Pick 1-2 opportunities from this list below and follow all the steps in my BEAVER Method – Get A Clinical Research Job and you’re golden!

Ultimately, my goal is for you to get a paid CRA job in any organization of your choice.

So let’s get started

• Hospital or Clinic Volunteer

This is my favorite strategy to get CRA experience. It’s also exactly how I got my first break in the industry.

Believe it or not, most large hospital or clinics have an official volunteering program. The volunteer program mainly geared towards retired individuals who want to give back to the community. But that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify.

There are two ways you can volunteer at a local hospital or clinic. I’ll cover each one in-depth.

Traditional Volunteer

This is the type of volunteering role where you’re cleaning hospital beds and putting new sheets after the patient leaves.

Or you may be tasked to move patients from the emergency room to the radiology department for a CT scan or X-Ray.

Or you may be simply stuffing envelopes with letters to hospital donors.

There is no research involved. However, these internships are equally for someone who has close to zero experience in the medical field.

Such volunteer roles are quite easy to secure. All you have to do is fill out the volunteering application form to indicate your interested and availability to serve as a volunteer. Make sure you fill the forms accurately.

Generally speaking, you’ll want to commit at least 4-6 hours each week and be willing to serve the community and patients. It’s not about you or your desire to get CRA experience. It’s about the patients.

You volunteering application will be accepted in a few days. Next, you’ll be asked to complete simple medical exams to ensure you’re a safe human being with no diseases that pose a threat to the patients.

Once your test results are in and you’re all clear, you’ll get volunteer badge and become an official volunteer.

It’s really that simple.

Now you’re wondering, “How does being a hospital volunteer help me become a CRA?”

My short answer: The foundation of any clinical research job is to serve patients.

By working closely with patients, physicians and nurses, you’re unknowingly absorbing clinical knowledge that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to do so.

You’re also building a valuable skill of being able to work with doctors and nurses. These are the same individuals that serve as site investigators and research coordinators on clinical studies.

Once you’ve been a traditional volunteer for 3-4 months, you’ll have relevant clinical experience that you can list on your resume.

You want the recruiter and hiring managers to get a sense of how your volunteering work had an impact on the clinical practice, the things you learned or observed and the influence you had on patient’s lives.

Clinical Research Volunteer

I consider this as a special and lesser known volunteer path.

Many practicing physicians have a deep desire to conduct research. But they don’t end up publishing research papers or presenting at conferences.

Because seeing patients is a full-time job. For instance, a family practice physician in the United States has to see a minimum of 18-22 patients in an 8-hour day. This leaves little or no time to conduct research.

The doctors don’t have enough time on their hands to write a protocol, make an IRB submission, review medical records or charts, or perform analysis on the clinical data.

But this is where you come into rescue. Follow these five simple steps and get relevant clinical research experience.

Step 1: Determine which therapeutic areas you’re interested in. If you’re not sure, I’d recommend cardiology, oncology or diabetes.

Step 2: Next, you want to identify doctors working in those specialties. You can find these doctors by looking at the local hospital website.

Step 3: After identifying potential doctors you want to work with, send each of them a personalized email an expressing your interest in being a research volunteer.

Step 4: After a few email exchanges and probably an in-person interview with the doctor, you’ll land with you dream clinical research volunteer role.

I’ve actually followed this exact process and was able to get one publication and one presentation on neonatal care.

Step 5: Once your research paper or presentation is complete, you can add it to your resume and brag about it to recruiters and hiring managers.

• Intern at a Fortune 500 Company

Most of us understand the value of an internship. It’s a great way to get relevant clinical experience and probably making a bit of money on the side.

Internship at a Fortune 500 healthcare company such as Pfizer, Abbott, Merck, Apple and even Google (yes, Apple and Google have healthcare products) can be a very rewarding experience.

These are also most sought-after internships. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get in.

Pros/Cons of Internship Roles at Fortune 500 Companies

• Excellent clinical training opportunity. You get to learn and implement standard operating procedures, application of GCP in real-world studies, working with cross-functional teams and more
• You will most likely get paid for your time as an intern
• A structured application process requires advanced planning. You will generally to apply 9-12 months prior to the target internship start date
• The internship program is mostly geared towards full time or part-time students
• Highly competitive (but hey, competition can make things better)

Resources: Fortune 500 Healthcare Company Internship and Coop Programs

Here is the current list of Fortune 500 companies .

You can apply filters such as “Industry – Pharmaceuticals” to identify healthcare companies.

Links to a few Co-op and Internship Programs at Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Medical Device Companies

Johnson & Johnson

Pfizer’s US Summer Student Intern Program

Merck’s career program for interns, coops and recent grads

AbbVie’s US Student Internship Program

Gilead Sciences Internships

Eli-Lilly Student Opportunities

Amgen Internships and Coops

Bristol-Myers Squibb Internship Programs

Biogen Internship and Coop Programs

Abbott Internships and Development Programs

• Work at a Healthcare Start-up

This strategy is an extension of securing an internship role at Fortune 500 healthcare companies.

When most people think of jobs or internships, multinational corporations come to the top of our mind. However, the Fortune 500 list is limited to the top companies.

There are thousands of other companies that operate in the healthcare space but do not make it to the Fortune 500 list.

A quick search on Angel.co revels that there are at least 18,956 healthcare startups . This list doesn’t even account for established companies that don’t make it to the Fortune 500 list.

A position at a healthcare startup that sells medical products or services is an excellent opportunity to not only learn more about healthcare space but have a greater impact in society.

Here is why I think a healthcare startup will love you:

• Most start-up companies are resource strapped. Resources could be money, time, or people. Therefore, if a startup can acquire an extraordinary talent such as yourself, they can save one or more of these resources
• Most start-ups are trying to grow and spread their message. If you can contribute towards the company’s goals and help them get one step closer to the finish line, they have no choice but to fall in love with your passion and commitment towards their organization.

Pros/cons of working at a healthcare startup

• You get to wear different hats at a healthcare start-up. One day you’ll be working on a new clinical trial and the next day you’ll be packing boxes to ship medical products to a clinical trial site. Such experience is of much value to companies hiring for CRA positions
• You’ll be presented with opportunities to work on important problems. If you can jump on these opportunities and show that you can execute and deliver results, you can accelerate your clinical research career
• Unlike Fortune 500 healthcare companies, start-ups are lesser known to job seekers. This makes it relatively easy to secure an internship, full-time or part-time position
• Your work objectives may not be as structured as a Fortune 500 company. You will probably be on your own and will need to figure things out by asking questions to people or finding clinical resources on government websites such as FDA.gov .
• There won’t be an established internship application process. You’ll need to email and call the CEO or head of clinical or R&D to get your foot in the door
• Your role may not be limited to clinical research. You’ll be expected to work on non-clinical tasks or goals
• You may or may not get paid. It depends on what you can negotiate

Resources: Working for Healthcare Startups

My favorite resource to research healthcare companies is biospace.com . It is a comprehensive list of biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies. Similarly, you can look up healthcare companies on angel.co .

Just start going through the company websites one-by-one, find out the CEO or vice president of clinical and begin contacting them for potential internship opportunities.

I know it’s a tedious process.

Plus there is a fear-factor of sending cold emails to people you don’t know. That’s precisely why very few people are doing this.

But if you want to become a CRA, this is your best shot to become one.

• Work for a Clinical Research Site or Site Network

Similar to a volunteer at a hospital or clinic, you can apply to work at a clinical research site or a clinical research site network.

To begin, let’s get some definitions out of the way.

A clinical research site is a location where a clinical trial is conducted.

It is generally a place where the site investigator and research coordinators see potential and current clinical trial patients, store regulatory binders, maintain patient medical records, place where CRA performs monitoring activities and more.

A research site can be independent, standalone office or part of a larger hospital system.

Many current clinical research professionals, which includes CRAs, started their careers as a clinical research coordinator (CRC) at a trial site.

Hospitals and clinics are looking for CRCs to enroll clinical trial patients, perform medical chart review or perform tasks such as data entry in clinical databases. This experience is in many ways the foundation of many CRAs in the industry.

It is important to note that although many CRCs are Registered Nurses (RN), you don’t need to be an RN to become a CRC.

On the other hand, a clinical research site network, is a network of sites and it means just that.

Sites will form networks or belong to paid networks to reduce fixed costs such as marketing and business development, provide a consistent experience to trial sponsors and CROs, and/or meet the highest level of clinical research standards.

Pros/cons of working at clinical research sites or site networks

• One of the best ways to understand the inner workings of a clinical research site
• Opportunity to work with multiples sponsors, CROs and patients. You’ll not only gain valuable experience but also grow your network, which can ultimately help you secure a full-time CRA job
• Highly sought-after experience for companies looking for CRA or CRA assistant candidates
• Given the academic and research-driven focus, internship stipends or salaries may be lower than industry jobs (sponsor/ CRO)
• If you’re an intern, you may not be able to work directly with patients due to privacy reasons or site policy. Instead, you’ll be assigned menial jobs such as filing regulatory documents or subject case report forms, all of which you should undertake with pride

Resources: How do you find a clinical research site?

Finding clinical research sites is a bit tricky.

For independent clinical research sites, you’ll have to rely on Google search or word of mouth.

Search of the terms “clinical research site + [your city/state/country].” If the site has a web presence, you will likely find them.

Large hospitals, particularly medical schools, are involved in clinical trials and have a clinical research department.

You basically contact the director of their clinical research or human resources (HR) department and ask them about career opportunities in their department.

Resources: How do you find a clinical research site network?

There are quite a few site networks but the sites that participate in these networks are sometimes not publicly available.

Well, because some site networks charge sites a flat annual fee to belong to their site research network or the site network charges sponsors get access to their sites. Someone has to pay for this information, it’s either the sites or sponsors.

Clinical Research Network has a public listing of sites in their network. You can reach out to some or all of these sites and ask them about potential career opportunities in research.

Center Watch also has a list of sites by geographic location

Research Match is an NIH funded initiative that connects patients and researchers. There are some big institutional names here. You can reach out to any of these sites and see if they are looking to hire or get volunteer help.

Platinum Research is another website where you can find a list of site research networks. Click on the “company websites” to get information on research sites in your area.

• Work at a Site Management Organization (SMO)

Similar to other career options we’ve discussed so far, working at a SMO is a great way to secure CRA experience.

A SMO is responsible for managing day-to-day trial management activities at a research site. Simply stated, the role of the SMO is to fill the gaps at a site.

For instance, a site may not have a dedicated research coordinator. This is where the SMO comes in play. Some sites have their own preferred SMO whereas other sites may be assigned a SMO by the clinical trial sponsor or clinical research organization (CRO).

Working at an SMO is in many ways similar to working at the site as described earlier.  12 – 24 months of SMO experience will generally be sufficient to meet the “two-year” CRA experience most sponsors or CROs require.

Pros/cons of working at a SMO

• Lesser known career opportunities, so your chances of getting hired are quite good
• Opportunity to truly understand the challenges faced by clinical research sites. This experience is valuable for anyone interested in becoming a CRA
• SMOs are more common in Asian countries such as Japan, India, Taiwan, and China. If you’re looking for international clinical research experience, this might be one the best ways to get it
• US-based SMOs are not as common and it can be challenging to come across a SMO closer to where you currently live
• Many SMOs are regional as they serve sites in their area

Resources: How to find a Site Management Organization?

Below are a few U.S. based SMOs

CMX Research Partner

PMG Research

CSSi Lifesciences

Consolidated Clinical Trials

• Work at a Clinical Research Organization (CRO)

A CRO provides clinical research services to sponsors. They are also known as Contract Research Organizations.

Today CROs are more popular than ever. Many Sponsor companies, large and small, don’t have the in-house clinical expertise to conduct a study. This is where a CRO comes into the picture.

A CRO provides the Sponsor the clinical resources i.e. people needed to execute on a clinical strategy. By hiring a CRO, the Sponsor isn’t stuck with permanent headcount, should they decide to abandon a medical product or terminate a clinical trial.

CRO size and specialty can vary. For instance, there are niche CROs that only serve certain therapies, regions, or types medical products such as a CRO specializing in medical device research.  

Pros/cons of working at a CRO

• More likely to hire individuals with little or no clinical research experience
• Opportunity to work on multiple therapeutic areas, medical products, and Sponsor companies
• Many CROs offer on the job training programs to help you with your professional development
• Service-based nature of CROs can lead to a stressful work environment when working with demanding Sponsors
• CRO personnel assignments are generally reviewed and approved by Sponsors. You may not get to work on your dream project if a Sponsor things you are not qualified, especially if you’re a newbie
• Pay for entry-level positions will likely be low. But if you truly care about CRA experience, the pay shouldn’t matter when you’re starting out. Build CRA relevant experience and then take on another opportunity within or outside the CRO
• Job descriptions may list a minimum two-year experience requirement, but I encourage you to apply to these junior level positions such as CRA assistant or clinical site coordinator/associate

Resources: How to find a Clinical Research Organizations?

Below are a few global CROs for you to consider:

PRA Health Sciences

Another option for finding CROs is First Clinical’s Supplier Directory , that lists several the companies that provide contract clinical research services.

• Intern at a Government (Regulatory) Agency

Government agencies play a crucial role in clinical research. They review and approve medical products. Their primary concern is patient safety.

Such organizations include the US Food and Drug Administration , competent authorities in the European Union such as Germany’s BfArM or China FDA .

Government laws and regulations form the foundation for any company wanting to obtain medical product approval for commercialization. The laws and regulations also apply to service-based companies such as CROs and SMOs and clinical trial sites conducting research.

Every clinical organization must follow the law and stay compliant. This is what makes working for government agencies exciting. You can learn things that truly matter when it comes to clinical research. You can then apply these learning as you advance in your clinical research career.

Pros/cons of an internship at a Government (Regulatory) Agency

• You’ll learn a lot about health care regulations, patient safety and how decisions are made inside government agencies. This is an incredibly valuable experience to have early on in your career
• Highly regarded among CRA hiring managers and recruiters
• Many opportunities will be unpaid or may come with a small stipend. If your primary objective is to gain valuable research experience, taking on volunteer opportunities within government organization is a great way to build your resume
• Certain organizations may require you to be a citizen of the country you’re interested in working for

Resources: Government (Regulatory) Agencies

Check your local country, state, county or city website to find out which department or division of the government is responsible for overseeing healthcare projects such as clinical trials.

Food and Drug Administration has an unpaid student volunteer program . I was pleasantly surprised to learn that this program is open for non-US citizens including permanent residents and visa holders.

You can also volunteer at FDA field offices, so you don’t need to relocate to Maryland. But if you can work at the FDA headquarters, that is probably the best as you’ll have access to more people and resources.

Other notable government or government-funded organizations are as follows:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a program for students and recent graduates
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an amazing program for students and college graduates
• U.S. National Library of Medicine has career opportunities for you to consider
• World Health Organization (WHO) , an agency part of the United Nation also has an internship program
• Work For A Nonprofit Focused On Healthcare Initiatives

Nonprofit organizations existing to fill gaps that the private and public sector do not or are unable to address. Nonprofits are mission-driven organizations.

There are thousands of nonprofits in the United States that are focused on healthcare initiatives and medical research. Such nonprofits include clinical research associations such as Association of Clinical Research Professionals , and American Heart Association .

Many people looking for CRA experienced are focused on CROs and Sponsor companies. But there are many lesser-known nonprofits that are looking for people like to you to work in the healthcare sector.

Your first job at these nonprofits will probably not a CRA position but you’ll gain valuable experience that will allow you to transition to a CRA position in the future.

Pros/cons of working at a nonprofit

• Nonprofits are generally looking for motivated individuals to support their mission
• Prior clinical research experience won’t be required in most organizations
• Excellent opportunity to take on meaningful work that isn’t focused on the financial bottom line. For-profit organizations are primarily driven by money and the work itself may not be as fulfilling
• A nonprofit may not be able to afford high salaries. You may be given a stipend or just enough money to survive

Resources: How to find Nonprofits with Healthcare Initiatives?

• First Clinical has one of the most comprehensive clinical research association directory listing . Many of these industry associations are probably nonprofits. Just start going through these associations one by one, reach out the Executive Director of each of these organizations and inquire about volunteering, full-time or part-time opportunities
• Guidestar is the world’s most comprehensive database for nonprofits. You can search for nonprofits in “Medical Research” or “Health” category and sort by “Gross Receipts”. If you start with organizations that have funding, they are more likely to hire you for a paid position
• Similar to Guidestar, there is Charity Navigator , where you can perform an Advanced Search for nonprofits in the Health → Medical Research category
• Health Finder , which was developed by the Department of Health and Human Services has a listing of nonprofit organizations in the healthcare field
• Invest In Your Learning

One of the best ways to get CRA experience is to invest in your learning. You can take on a certification program with organizations such as ACRP or SOCRA .

There are also paid and free online courses that you can take with ACRP , free GCP certification with NDAT CTN Training, or clinical research courses on Coursera .

However, knowledge through certifications or courses in and by itself is not sufficient to get a CRA role. You need to “learn” through practical experience.

You can also consider attending or volunteering at clinical research conferences hosted by companies such as ExL events , CBI events , ACRP or SOCRA . Such conferences allow you to network with like-minded people, which in turn creates opportunities for you and everyone else attending these events.

Finally, I would do a disservice to this article if I did not mention the important soft skills you need to master on your way to becoming a CRA. Some soft skills include negotiation, active listening, not complaining, empathy and self-awareness.

We’ve covered 9 different ways you can gain CRA experience. Pick 1-2 opportunities from this list, and pursue them with your full focus and energy.

Apply the foundational principles I share in the BEAVER Method – How to Get A Clinical Research Job and you’ll be on your way to getting your dream clinical research position in any organization.

What are you planning to do next? Let me know if the comments section below.

The World of Program Management with Stephen Smith

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Extreme Night Owl

Very good information. Thank you!

Kunal Sampat

Thank you@E@extremenightowl:disqus Let me know if you have any specific questions. Happy to help.

Gunturu .Neeharika

Hi kunal, I’ve been reading articles about volunteer research work online and I just got ended up here. Firstly, thanks for this simple and detailed information . I’m an ent surgeon from India but settled in Sydney as my husband is an Australian citizen. Im on my visitors visa now for next 5 months and I do want to utilize this time gaining experience in / learning research work while waiting for my medical registration here in Australia. I want to enrol as a volunteer in clinical trials or research work and I’m new to this area so, it would be great if you could help me with this ( any idea about opportunities in Sydney) .Thanks neeharika .

Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. Glad to hear you find the information useful. I’m happy to help you and will send you an email with details.

kunal i have questiion. I am base sas certified, currently living in atlanta. last ten years i was busy looking after my kids and family. now i want to work as clinical sas progrmmer. i want to know the job prospects especially in atlanta. can you help me.

Hi Asma, Have you tried to apply the BEAVER Method towards your job search efforts? https://clinicaltrialpodcast.com/get-a-clinical-research-job/ What is your #1 challenge with identifying potential opportunities? – Kunal

Hi Kunal, Thank you for your great information. I am a medical school applicant doing my msc in medical physics. I was thinking of part time joining a clinical research group as well. I also would love to publish some papers on clinical research area as well. I am very skilled in data analysis and working with people. My background is biophysics and math. Do you have any idea how I could go about that? Thank you,

Hi Adina, Thank you for reaching out. Yes, I think there are many ways for you publish papers in clinical research. One recommendation I have for you is that you reach out to some medical doctors that are actively conducting clinical trials at a teaching hospital near your home. You can then collaborate with them on a research project as volunteer. Since you’re proficient at data analysis, you can help the medical doctor collect and analyze clinical data. This can be retrospective data. The doctor will know where to publish etc. and he/she will add you as an author on the paper. This is how I got my very first paper in clinical research. Hope this helps. Let me know if I can answer any additional questions.

Hi Kunal, I am research professional with experience of 8 yrs in clinical trials in laboratory, quality assurance and recent role which was in data management /administration. (volunteer).Despite of such a strong professional experience can’t get a break through in the field. Because of recent volunteer role get some interview calls but don’t have ethics application experience holds me back. I am desperately looking and applying for clinical research assistant role but could not get it.Have a good references too but don’t know where I’m lagging behind as feedback of interviewers says they have more experienced candidates who has recently done the program or role. Kindly share some advice. Thanks . Pradeep

Hi Pradeep,

Have you checked out my other blog on “How to Get A Clinical Research Job” Here is the link to the blog post. https://clinicaltrialpodcast.com/get-a-clinical-research-job/

Please give this method a try and let me know if you have any additional questions.

Hi kunal, Thanks for these important tips. I am graduate as dentist from India and then i completed my post graduate diploma in clinical research from Institute of Clinical Research India. Post completion of this course, I had 6 months training as clinical research manager at a CRO and then worked as CRA at PGIMER, Chandigarh, India on an oncology trial for 6 months. Currently I am on visitor visa in Melbourne, Australia with my husband who is PR here. I want to utilize this time in some training or education for 3 months as i cant work on visitor visa. Kindly guide me with best of your knowledge and experience. Email is [email address removed]

Wasim Kamate

Hii Neha, we too have completed MDS and postgraduate diploma course in clinical research in Maharashtra India..Please guide me further as to what can I do to get experience in clinical research and post of clinical research manager in India, more comfortably in Maharashtra. Please guide us on email: [email protected]

Hi Kunal,,, Please guide me….I am Dr. Wasim Kamate, MDS with postgraduate diploma course in clinical research in Maharashtra India..Please guide me further as to what can I do to get experience in clinical research and post of clinical research manager in India, more comfortably in Maharashtra

thanks for sharing great article with us keep doing great work

Thank you, Preeti

Hi Kunal! Thank you for the valuable information.Prior to reading this article, I graduated with a bachelors degree in science and have been trying to get clinical research coordinator positions but to no avail. Hence I took up a clinical research internship with a Therapeutics company that focuses on immunotherapy for cancer.I figured getting experience from this internship would help me with attaining a CRC position in the future. I have thought long about whether what I did was right as I know I won’t be fully focusing on research after this internship. Your article has truly given me hope 🙂 Thank you!

Glad to hear Anisha. Don’t give up hope but take action towards your goal. Good luck and keep me posted on your progress.

Wow what an incredible resource and well written article. I thank you very much Kunal!

Hi Kunal, I am a Commerce graduate and I did MBA in Finance and Supply chain management in 2011. I have changed my area of expertise a couple of times ranging from Banking and Finance, Retail, HR (compliance) and then ventured into data science in 2016 with a certificate in Big Data. I have been literally struggling to get a break in clinical SAS programming since this is my area of interest for a Full-time career option. I don’t know where to start. I appeared for an interview at PPD in March but did not clear it. I am due to appear for Clinical SAS programmer exam in the month of November but I am finding it extremely difficult to study the subject matter. I want a break in a CRO asap but dunno how and where to start. PPD had said that they are going to come up with a fresher opening where adequate training would be given but there has been no response. Please guide me. Many thanks. KG

Thanks for reaching out. A couple of things to consider: 1. I would reach out to the hiring managers at the various companies and jobs you’re interested in and feel qualified. You’ll need to use LinkedIn to find hiring managers. It is important that you contact people who are responsible for making hiring decisions. Don’t contact recruiters. 2. Get super organized around your job search. Focus on 10 job openings at a given time. You should consider creating a spreadsheet that lists this jobs and the name and phone number of the hiring managers. Then call those hiring managers and let them know you want to work for them. Get their advice and listen to their feedback. If you hear “no’s” change your job search strategy based on the hiring manager’s feedback.

To summarize, you need to focus on 10 positions at a given time and talk to the hiring managers. Your goal should be to get a “Yes” or a “No” from them. Don’t rely on PPD only.

Koyel Ghosh

Hi Kunal, I am writing to you to inform you that I am struggling to get a break in CRO for the last six months. I am BCom graduate and I have done MBA in Finance. I have experience in varied fields ranging from Finance, Banking, Retail, and finally Data science. I worked as a data scientist in a startup for 3months and I decided to pursue Clinical SAS as a career option. I have taken various training online Edex and Course-Era. I also completed certificate training from NIH and secured 88%. I am due to appear for clinical SAS exam in November. I am finding it extremely hard to secure a job in clinical SAS given the fact that I don’t have a life sciences background. Getting an internship is also so difficult. Please guide me.

Hi Kunal, Thank you very much for this incredible article, I’m a Foreing Medical Doctor and I have more than 2 years working as a CRC, I want to became a monitor,what do you advise to me to do.??… I would appreciate it very much!!..

AbeerSarwar

Hi, This article is so well written , i am a foreign medical graduate in usa , and i tried many of the resources mentioned in this article , all the websites i went to mostly required enrolled students in usa universities, what would be the best bet in this scenario , i live in florida and i asked around in hospitals near me where i couldn’t find anyone to be in research. thank you

biospherecro

Thanks for sharing it

Hi Kunal, thanks a lot for the tips and Information. I am a German. I have a masters degree in pharmaceutical biotechnology in Germany. Had to stay at home after that because of my kids. Because I wanted to work on my career, I decided to do the CRA course in Germany which I comleted in June 2018 in addition to a GCP-ICH Training. I just moved to Canada last December. I don’t really know how to go about job search here in Canada in the CRA field. Will be grateful if you can be of help. Sincerely yours

Hi Kunal, Thanks for this informative article regarding clinical research industry. I’m an international medical graduate in Sydney and l’m looking for a clinical research experience so that i can make an entry into this field, can you please guide me the options i can avail here in Sydney? Thanks!

Hi, I Would like to thank you for useful information before addressing my questions. The information which was mentioned is really helpful and informative. Coming to my queries, I need a guidance for getting into the Clinical research training. I have visited the sites who are providing training but unfortunately few applications are closed for summer. I stay in USA , I have a Post Graduate Degree in Pharmaceutical’s and I have a 2 years experience in India. But when I’m looking for opportunities here, I’m unable to get into the right path. Please guide me in choosing a right platform. Thanks & Regards, Anu

SRILAXMI KADAMBALA

Hi Kunal, Thanks a lot for useful information. I have done Masters in organic chemistry from kakatiya University , India.Here in Texas ,have worked as research assistant at Texas University for very short period. Drug chemistry and clinical trials are main major subjects in my studies. I am looking for CRA position and also attended 2 interviews, but all are asking for experience with patients and doctors. This article is very helpful to me. I will try to follow this. Thank you. Regards, Srilaxmi.

Hi Srilaxmi – great! keep me posted on your progress. Thanks! Kunal

Hi Kunal, Great article. Can you let me know your thoughts on the CRA online training provided by ccrpcourse dot com/? I am a research scientist and my company is giving me the opportunity to work on our upcoming trials. They will pay for the training course and I am trying to find one that is most inclusive, instead of 7 or 8 courses that will give me the experience. Please let me know your thoughts!

It is great and excellent article by you now I’ll chose some tips n tricks from this article that will help me out to get a cra job in india. Thank you so much. I have some query see I’m in india right now and want to wark in UAE as clinical research (crc/cra) if you have any idea about that how i go there and get an opportunity in good cro smo or hospitals and any article related it please share by mail. Thank you so much

Priyanka Thalluri

Thank you so much kunal

Ashwin Krishnamoorthy

Hi I am a medical graduate from India. I am looking for a medical field related job while I’m studying for the USMLE. What are the possibilities?

Hi Ashwin, You have multiple options to choose from. Check out this blog on the various roles in clinical research https://clinicaltrialpodcast.com/clinical-research/ . Find companies/ organizations that are hiring for the role you’re most interested in and then apply for the jobs.

Purval Yele

Hi Kunal This is very nice article which would certainly help all the people out there. I am thankful to you for the guidance. I am pursuing 2nd year Msc Clinical Research. Pls guide me whether to go for Phd? Which University would be good?

I’m a CVICU RN with a BSN and 5 years experience in healthcare plus previous 8 years of accounting experience. What would you suggest as the best route to break into the CRA profession. Every position I’m seeing is requiring 2 years of experience which I don’t have. Thank you.

Hi Liz, Your experience in the CVICU is SUPER-VALUABLE! And knowing about accounting (finance) is an equally valuable skill in clinical research. My question to you, “Why do you want to be a CRA?” I would recommend other roles such as clinical educator at a sponsor company where you’ll explain how a medical product works, clinical research scientist, clinical safety associate. These would be relatively easier opportunities for you to get your foot in the door. Hope this helps. Kunal

I just want to know how to initiate a clinical research? I am not a doctor or nurse or have any desire to become one I just think I may have discovered something and know that it if I am correct in my theory would benefit countless scores of women! Is there any way for me to suggest something be conducted or can I just throw my idea out to social media and get ppl to volunteer that way? It can b done at home no need for any exams or preemptive measures just a commitment to make one simple lifestyle change.

Hi Kelly, Starting a research study is an involved process. At a minimum, you will need IRB approval at the medical center where you plan to conduct research. You will likely also need a medical doctor as a site investigator to ensure there is patient safety and adequate study oversight. You can read more about clinical trials at https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/clinical-trials-guidance-documents . Take care, Kunal

Denise A MarulloCook

Great informative article…I now have a place to begin for Clinical Research Assistant. I have 35 yrs experience as a Psychiatric Nurse ( LVN) and a Certified Nursing Assistant. My licences have since expired, but my background is still relevant. I have done research for doctors for many years. Do I need a certificate for this? Will my medical background help me up the ladder? My age (61) seems to be a deterrent as it’s always part of an application. I am very organized, great at details, love research and earned a BA degree in English; I am excelent at written tasks. I’m also a published author. I really want this career and know I’m perfect for it. I do live in a small town which is dominated by Military bases and affiliations. I live in NC, but it’s far from the more prominent towns where big hospitals and universities prevail. Any suggestions??

palak patel

Hi, I m doing a job as a clinical research coordinator from India’s reputed hospital now i will move in USA so what should i do ? kindly request you to guide me. in India i did my B.pham. so please guide me.

Hi Palak, I’ve just sent you an email. Talk soon!

Paradzai C Tirivashoma

Hi. This article was a true eye opener. I’m a 36 year old Zimbabwean trained physiotherapist living in South Africa. I have tried in vain to obtain registration as a physiotherapist. It is government policy here to exclude recruitment from developing countries. I have developed an interest in clinical research and my prospects look promising once I get my foot in the door. What is the best way available to me to enter into this field?

Paradzai Tirivashoma

Hi Paradzai – Just start implementing one or more strategies I share in this post.

Hi..This article is more informative for students who are looking career in Clinical Research Industry. Thank You!

You are welcome!

Hi Kunal, thank you for such detailed information. I am a dental graduate from India and have recently moved to Canada few months back. I am looking for a medical/dental field research related job while I’m studying for my equilvalency exams. If you could suggest some possibilities?

Dear Kunal, Thank you so much for a great and very helpful article. It is awesome! I have MS degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Saint-Petersburg State University, Russia. I have been in States since 2006 (I am a citizen). I worked as biochemist at university, QC technician and R&D scientist/supervisor for a small biotech company, my last job was R/D scientist in start up pharma company (unfortunately they ran out of money). I am really interested in becoming CRC or CRA. I always was inspired by this field. Should I join a training program first? I am just trying to do my research and find the best way to start my carrier in Clinical Research. Please advice. Thank you again and best regards, Anna

Hema Ramaswamy

Very informative! I need some advice / confirmation if I’m in the right path. I have done MS in (OB/GYN) from India and have close to 10 yrs break due to family commitments. I’m not interested in USMLE. I’m looking to restart my career. My plan is to do a certification in clinical research, followed by internship or volunteering, thereafter do a CRA certification course. Does this sound ok? Any advice would be great. Thanks

Mehar Sulthana

I am a physician from India,with MD anatomy post graduation.At present residing in USA for 4yrs.Due to family circumstances unable to pursue my career here.Now planning to do CRA certification course.Have you heard of fast track clinical research in Arizona.Through google I learnt about their course and contacted them.Is it reliable to join.Any adivce plz?

Dear Kunal, Very informative article. thank you for sharing all this information. I am Ph.D. in Organic chemistry from India and currently working as an Assistant professor of Chemistry at a US University, but interested in making a transition to full-time research jobs. Clinical research seems a very interesting research field, as I am doing computer-aided drug designing research, so transitioning from the preliminary step to the final step of the drug discovery spectrum is fascinating. After relocating to Pittsburgh, I was just searching for volunteer opportunities and came across your blog. Very helpful information. Any personal advice to step foot in with my background will be highly appreciated. Thank you!!

Hi Kunal , My name is Gabriel from Ghana. I have a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. I am very interested in becoming a clinical research professional. I read your article recently about CRA and I am very interested . I am currently unemployed. I would be very glad to know you more and to contact you. Kindly give me the opportunity to get in touch with you and learn more from you. I need information on clinical research and I have some pressing issues. I received an admission to enroll in a course, but I am still not very clear about it. Please help me 🙏. Thank you in advance for your kindness. I hope to hear from you soon.

Hi Gabby, What specific questions do you have for me?

Hi Kunal, This is a very thorough article and I tend to revisit it whenever I’m in doubt. However, I needed some more guidance/ expert opinion with respect to my career path ,It’d be great if we could get in touch to discuss this. On a side note, what do you think of Masters programs in Clinical Research ( e.g. Master of applied clinical research St.cloud state university) ? How effective are they (in the US/ worldwide) in terms of clinical research education and for a clinical research job profile (specifically CRA) ?

If you invest your hard earned cash on any program and put in the work, you’ll see the results.

Salunke Ganesh

Hi Kunal I m MBBS dch md in pediatric from Mumbai I m practicing since 2002 I want to make my own CRO how much investment I need where can get complete information in mumbai for making CRO I do ve investors too is it lucrative than making hospital set up of 50 beded in mumbai please guide me Thanking you

Hi, i am a psychology major who just graduated this august 2021. How do I get my foot in the door? this was very helpful but for someone like me what is my best bet?

Wow. This is most comprehensive, yet simplistic and very-well explained. I feel like I am in a unique position, but after reading this I have so much more confidence in going forward with my educational plans and pursuing my dream career. I am a student again, after receiving a long-awaited kidney transplant. I was asymptomatic when diagnosed so for this reason, over time, I became extremely interested in learning how kidney disease and other life-altering diseases are diagnosed and treated. The week following my transplant, I enrolled in a AS degreed program for Clinical Research Professional., which comes with a CRC certificate as well. I am nervous that I won’t start my career with a BS degree, but with so many contacts in healthcare, I am quite confident that between my physicians and The Nat’l Kidney Foundation, which I have been working with and for whom I have been fundraising over the last few years, will help me in the area of experience while volunteering. After years of working in Customer Service and management, I am so excited to finally find a career that is a true fit for me. My question is will I be able to eventually transition into a CRA position after a certain amount of years of experience, or do I absolutely need to go back to school for a BS? I am planning to get into as many Professional Associations as I can and get certified wherever possible as well. Again, I am saving this article and I am looking forward to reading all of your insight on Clinical Research Careers. Sincerely, K. Araya

Getting a bachelors degree in your safest bet to being able to considered for the CRA role. It will open up many opportunities for you. Just look through some of the open opportunities for CRA roles, I bet many require a Bachelors degree. If that is the case, consider getting a Bachelors degree sooner than later.

Nethia Mohana Kumaran

Hi Kunal, I am in Perth, Australia and eagerly looking for either CTA or CTC positions. I am also open to volunteering. Could you please help with any opportunities? Thank you

Thanks for this wonderful Article, I have read and expanded my learning skills, but still find it difficult to get a CRA job. I am open for volunteers. I live in Atlanta Georgia. I will be glad if you can be of help. Thanks

This is so helpful. I call this the ABC of entry level to any profession, Well appreciated

You’re welcome, Chris!

Thank you for this wonderful resource into the field of clinical research. Current MD candidate looking for CRC/CRA roles.

IS THERE ANY AGE LIMIT TO START A CAREERIN CLINICAL RESEARCH?

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Trends in Medicine

5 steps to a career in clinical research.

For many clinicians, research is considered primarily in the context of interpreting the medical literature for individual patient care. For others, the opportunity to design and implement studies that will answer important clinical questions represents an exciting and fulfilling career opportunity. Both pathways require foundational training in clinical research.

What are the steps to becoming a clinician-investigator?

Step 1 – Get as much research training as you can.

The more skills that you have, the more likely that you are going to be competitive in our current research environment. There are a lot of people going after a little bit of money. The better qualified you are, the more likely you are to succeed.

Step 2 – Try to find a good mentor.

Try to identify a research supervisor who is supportive, who is doing excellent research, and who is willing to put you in the spotlight and support your career. Speak with your colleagues to discover whom they have worked with that may be a good mentor in your institution or city.

Step 3 – Get protected time.

There are many countries where the notion of protected time for research does not exist. Clinicians are faced with the competing tasks of taking care of patients on the one hand and trying to do research on the other. You can only be successful if you have lots of time to pursue your research. Make sure you have at least 50 percent protected time away from clinical responsibilities. Time to think, time to derive testable hypotheses, time to think about how you can implement your research project.

Step 4 – Get funding for salary support.

You know you are a valuable commodity. You are well trained, went through medical school, took care of patients, and learned how to do clinical research. Now you are a person who is in short supply. Insist on not only protected time, but on salary support as well, at least at the beginning. This will help get your research career off to a good start.

Step 5 – Don't let them get you down.

You will encounter disappointment in your research career, especially early on. In many ways developing a research career is not much different from trying to become a successful artist – there is plenty of opportunity to fail, to get rejected. You have to keep your head up.

Remember, grants will be rejected. Many times the reviewers will tell you that you 'lack experience' – do not let that get you down. You will conduct your research, then write the paper, and the paper will get rejected. And you will scratch your head and say, ‘I spent three years working on this project and I have not been able to get it published'. Don't worry. Keep trying. Your paper, as long as it's good, will get published somewhere. The key is to keep pushing.

Rejections, unfortunately, will continue throughout your research career. You just have to get used to it. This is the natural history of a career in research. Rather than getting discouraged, think positively, get motivated, apply again, and make your proposal better. Try and identify what was wrong with your proposal. Why did it not get funded? Ask some friends, colleagues, and family members to read the proposal and tell you what they think about it. Was there a problem with flow? Was there a problem with the design? Now apply again and keep at it. The only way to succeed, whether it's in proposal writing, becoming a clinician investigator, or writing papers, is not to give up.

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Clinical Research Career Path: A Complete Guide

Clinical research offers a rewarding career path in the field of medicine, combining scientific inquiry with the goal of improving patient care and developing new therapies. This comprehensive guide provides valuable information on the diverse opportunities, progression paths, and necessary qualifications in the clinical research industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Clinical research involves evaluating the safety and efficacy of medical treatments on human volunteers through rigorous scientific trials.
• Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) are considered the gold standard for assessing the effectiveness of medical interventions by minimizing bias.
• Clinical Research Organizations (CROs) play a critical role in overseeing and managing clinical trials for pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
• Clinical research career options include roles such as Biostatistician, Clinical Research Associate (CRA), Clinical Trial Manager, and more.
• Progression in clinical research careers can lead to positions like Clinical Director or Vice President, requiring further experience and expertise.
• Networking and obtaining certifications from associations like ACRP, SoCRA, CCRA, and ICR can enhance career prospects in clinical research.
• The average salaries for clinical research professionals vary by country, with Australia and India offering competitive compensation packages.

By following this complete guide, individuals aspiring to pursue a career in clinical research can gain valuable insights into the industry, understand various career paths, and make informed decisions about their professional development. Unlock the world of clinical research and contribute to advancements in medical knowledge and patient outcomes.

The Importance of Clinical Research Careers

Clinical research careers play a vital role in the development of safe and effective treatments for patients. These careers are crucial in advancing medical science and improving healthcare outcomes.

With the ever-increasing demand for new therapies and medications, clinical research professionals are at the forefront of innovation and discovery. They contribute to the development of breakthrough products and treatments that address a wide range of conditions, including heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s, cancer, and even diseases like COVID-19.

Clinical research is responsible for the development of new medicines and vaccines that save lives and improve quality of life. It plays a vital role in combating antibiotic resistance, a pressing global health issue. Despite no new antibiotics being discovered since 1984, clinical research continues to explore new avenues and approaches to tackle this challenge.

Moreover, clinical research careers offer significant opportunities for development and advancement. Programs like the CRA Graduate Programme and the CRA Academy Programme provide structured pathways for new graduates and professionals with industry experience to excel in their careers.

For those interested in pursuing a career in clinical research, having a science degree, particularly in science, bio-medicine, nursing, or pharmacy, is highly valued. The dynamic and varied nature of clinical research involves activities such as setting up, monitoring, and closing clinical studies, traveling to different research areas, attending meetings, and collaborating with various stakeholders.

Career Opportunities and Salary

The clinical research industry offers diverse career opportunities with competitive salaries. According to statistics, the average salary for a Clinical Trial Assistant in 2020 was $63,000. Clinical Research Coordinators earned an average salary of $63,117, and Clinical Research Associates with one to two years of experience had an average salary of $72,358. With six years of experience, CRAs can earn up to $110,102 annually. Individual contractor CRAs even have the potential to earn up to $300,000 a year. Starting salaries in clinical research are considered relatively high, with ample room for progression towards high-paying positions.

Furthermore, the global market for clinical trials is projected to grow significantly, reaching $69.9 billion by 2027 and $84.43 billion by 2030. This growth indicates the increasing demand for clinical research professionals and the abundant opportunities for career development.

In addition to the competitive salaries, many companies in the industry offer attractive benefits such as private healthcare, dental care, and vision care. Job security in clinical research is robust due to ongoing pharmaceutical work, technological advancements, and the continuous need for new treatments.

In conclusion, clinical research careers are of utmost importance in the development of safe and effective treatments. These careers provide rewarding opportunities for professionals to make a positive impact on global healthcare while enjoying competitive salaries and extensive career progression.

Clinical Research Career Statistics

Clinical Research Career Options

When considering a career in clinical research, there are various options available for professionals with different skills and interests. These roles play an essential role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of new treatments for patients. Let’s explore ten common clinical research jobs:

• Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC): CRCs are entry-level roles responsible for assisting with patient recruitment, obtaining informed consent, collecting data, and ensuring protocol adherence. They work closely with patients and research teams to support the smooth implementation of clinical trials.
• Clinical Research Associate (CRA): CRAs also have entry-level positions and are responsible for monitoring clinical trial sites, verifying data, ensuring regulatory compliance, assessing the safety of study subjects, and maintaining study protocols. They play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and quality of clinical trial data.
• Clinical Trial Manager: As the name suggests, clinical trial managers oversee the operations of clinical trials from start to finish. They manage budgets, coordinate teams of CRAs, and ensure the successful execution of trials. Attention to detail and strong project management skills are essential for this role.
• Clinical Project Manager: Clinical project managers are responsible for managing multiple trials within a program. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage resources, align project phases with organizational goals, and ensure the smooth execution of clinical trials. Effective communication and leadership skills are critical in this role.
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Regulatory affairs specialists compile, submit, and maintain regulatory documents for approval. They must stay informed about changing regulations and liaise with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance. Attention to detail and an understanding of regulatory requirements are essential in this role.
• Data Manager: Data managers play a vital role in overseeing data collection, cleaning, and database management for clinical trial data. They ensure data quality and compliance with industry standards, contributing to the integrity and accuracy of clinical trial results.
• Clinical Research Scientist: Clinical research scientists design study protocols, analyze data, interpret results, and publish findings in scientific journals. They play a crucial role in advancing medical knowledge and contribute to evidence-based medicine through their research.
• Medical Monitor: Medical monitors focus on patient safety during clinical trials. They review adverse events, assess patient well-being, and recommend study adjustments based on their medical expertise. Their role is crucial in safeguarding the well-being of study participants.
• Clinical Quality Assurance Auditor: Clinical quality assurance auditors conduct inspections, identify non-compliance issues, and recommend corrective actions to ensure adherence to regulations and quality standards. They play an essential role in maintaining the integrity of clinical trial processes.
• Clinical Research Consultant: Clinical research consultants provide expert guidance on study design, regulatory strategies, and data analysis. They work independently or with organizations to solve complex problems and provide valuable insights in the field of clinical research.

These are just a few examples of the diverse career options available in clinical research. Professionals with qualifications or experience in the industry can explore these roles and find rewarding career opportunities in various sectors, including pharma, biotech, medical device companies, and contract research organizations (CROs).

As the statistics show, clinical research is a competitive and growing field within the life sciences industry. Professionals in this field can progress to senior roles such as Clinical Director or VP level, depending on their experience and expertise. With the constant demand for innovative treatments and therapies, there is a wealth of opportunities for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in healthcare through clinical research.

Progression in Clinical Research Careers

Progressing in clinical research careers offers exciting opportunities for professionals in the field. By combining experience, education, certifications, and networking, individuals can unlock new levels of career growth and success. Let’s explore some of the potential paths for career progression in clinical research.

1. Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC)

Starting as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) is a common entry point in the field. These professionals oversee the daily operations of clinical trials, ensuring adherence to protocols and regulations. Employers often prefer candidates with a graduate degree, which provides a competitive advantage in the job market. Average salaries for CRCs are around $56,504 per year, with senior positions earning over $89,000.

2. Clinical Research Associate (CRA)

Becoming a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is a natural career progression for experienced CRCs. CRAs monitor clinical trials, perform site visits, and ensure data integrity. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree, gaining work experience, pursuing a master’s degree or graduate certificate, and obtaining relevant certifications are key steps in advancing as a CRA. Salaries for CRAs vary based on experience levels, with typical ranges as follows:

The median salary for a clinical research associate is $83,797 per year, with entry-level positions starting around $48,533 and senior positions reaching approximately $134,940. Salary differences can also depend on the employer, with pharmaceutical companies typically offering higher compensation compared to federal government positions.

3. Specialized Roles and Career Advancement

As professionals gain experience and expertise, they can pursue specialized roles within clinical research. Some potential career paths include:

• Clinical Trial Manager
• Clinical Project Manager
• Director of Clinical Operations
• Regulatory Affairs Manager or Director
• Senior Data Manager or Clinical Data Scientist
• Senior Research Scientist or Director of Clinical Research
• Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
• Senior Auditor or Quality Assurance Manager

These positions often require additional education, such as a master’s degree or advanced certifications, and offer higher salaries and increased responsibilities.

By strategically planning their educational journey, gaining relevant experience, and obtaining certifications like the Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC), Clinical Research Associate (CCRA), or Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), professionals can enhance their employment opportunities, salary potential, and overall career prospects in the field.

Networking and staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements also play crucial roles in career progression. Building professional connections, attending conferences, and joining relevant associations like the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) and the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA) can provide valuable opportunities for growth and advancement.

Clinical research careers offer a wealth of possibilities for those passionate about advancing medical research and improving patient outcomes. With dedication, continuous learning, and a strategic approach to career development, professionals can make significant strides in their clinical research career progression.

Furthering Education and Certifications

Continuing education and obtaining certifications play a vital role in advancing your career in clinical research. With the field constantly evolving, staying updated with the latest knowledge and acquiring specialized skills can set you apart from the competition and open doors to new opportunities.

One avenue for furthering your education is pursuing advanced degrees in clinical research or related fields. A Master’s in Clinical Research or an MBA with a concentration in healthcare can deepen your understanding of research methodologies, regulations, and management principles. These advanced degrees can equip you with the necessary skills to take on leadership roles and contribute to the strategic direction of clinical research projects.

Benefits of Obtaining Certifications

In addition to advanced degrees, certifications can enhance your qualifications and increase your marketability in the clinical research industry. Certifications demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and validate your expertise in specific areas.

One prominent certification for Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) is the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) credential offered by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA). The CCRP certification requires a minimum of two years of full-time experience in clinical research and assesses professionals on their knowledge of research ethics, regulatory compliance, study operations, and data management.

For CRAs with at least one year of full-time experience, the International Academy of Clinical Research (IAoCR) offers the Certified Clinical Research Associate (CICRA) credential. This certification focuses on core competencies such as protocol adherence, data collection and analysis, and patient safety.

Impact on Career Advancement and Salaries

Furthering your education and obtaining certifications can significantly impact your career advancement and earning potential in clinical research. By acquiring advanced degrees and certifications, you position yourself for higher-level positions and greater responsibilities, which often come with increased earning potential.

According to statistics, entry-level Clinical Research Coordinators can expect an annual salary ranging from $45,000 to $60,000, while mid-level Coordinators typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year. Senior Coordinators with advanced skills and experience can command salaries exceeding $90,000 annually.

Moreover, geographical location can significantly impact compensation in the clinical research field. Metropolitan areas tend to offer higher salaries compared to rural regions due to factors such as larger research institutions, increased competition, and higher costs of living.

Exploring Certification Programs

When considering certification programs, it is essential to research reputable organizations that offer certifications relevant to your career path. Some well-known organizations in the clinical research industry providing certification programs for CRAs include the Clini Launch Research Institute (CLRI), SOCRA, and IAoCR.

These programs can provide you with the necessary knowledge and credibility to excel in your clinical research career. Additionally, certifications often require continuing education to stay current, enabling you to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Investing in your education and obtaining certifications in clinical research can open doors to new opportunities, increase your earning potential, and position you for success in this rapidly growing field. By staying committed to lifelong learning and professional development, you can secure a rewarding and fulfilling career in the diverse and exciting world of clinical research.

The Role of Networking in Career Progression

Networking plays a crucial role in career progression in the clinical research field. By actively building relationships with peers, mentors, and industry professionals, individuals can gain valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities for growth and advancement.

Studies indicate that networking is a powerful tool in the healthcare industry, with a LinkedIn survey estimating that 85% of all jobs are filled through networking. In healthcare, referrals are a key aspect of organizational recruitment strategies, and many hospitals offer robust referral programs with generous incentives designed to encourage employees to refer their contacts.

For professionals in nursing and clinical research, networking events play a crucial role in expanding their professional network and advancing their careers. Whether it’s attending convention center meetings, hospital or company-sponsored events, continuing education seminars, or conferences, these gatherings provide valuable opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.

Online networking platforms like LinkedIn also offer nurses and healthcare professionals the chance to connect with others in their field, expand their network, and stay updated on industry trends and opportunities. Being selective about networking sites for nursing or healthcare can enhance the online networking experience, ensuring professionals connect with the right people and engage in meaningful conversations.

Networking not only exposes individuals to different specialties and roles that they may not have previously considered but also helps build alliances for developing processes and policies that support better patient outcomes. By networking and building relationships throughout the healthcare industry, professionals can collaborate with others to create positive change within their field.

When attending networking events, it is essential to set goals beforehand to ensure specific objectives are met. Proper attire at networking events also sets a professional tone and boosts self-assurance, making individuals more approachable to potential connections.

Advancing in Clinical Research Careers through Networking

In the clinical research field, career progression often follows a well-defined path. Starting from entry-level roles like Clinical Trial Assistants (CTA) or Clinical Research Coordinators (CRC), professionals can advance to specialized positions such as Clinical Research Associates (CRA) or Study Start-Up Specialists (SSU) within 1-3 years on average.

Professionals with post-graduate STEM degrees may have the opportunity to skip entry-level positions and directly enter more advanced roles like CRA or SSU. Individuals with 2-5 years of experience in specialized roles can transition to senior positions such as Clinical Trial Managers or Team Leads.

Through specialized industry-bridging programs, graduates can achieve quicker promotions compared to the traditional career path, often in half the time required. After gaining expertise in specific areas like Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Operations, or Data Management for 3-5 years, professionals are typically ready for higher management roles as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) or Directors.

Senior professionals with seasoned experience may ascend to executive roles like Vice Presidents, Heads of Clinical Operations, or Chief Scientific Officers. Active engagement in industry associations, conferences, and networking events is emphasized to provide opportunities for career advancement and gain valuable industry insights.

Certifications and Leadership Development

In the clinical research field, certifications hold significant value and demonstrate expertise and commitment to professional development. Relevant certifications include Certified Clinical Research Professionals (CCRP), Certified Clinical Research Associates (CCRA), and Clinical Research Coordinator Certification (CRCC).

Additionally, professionals can enhance their career prospects by pursuing advanced degrees such as a master’s degree in clinical research, which can be beneficial for those looking to transition into management or executive-level roles.

Leadership opportunities within an organization also contribute to career growth. Showcasing leadership capabilities and taking on responsibilities can elevate one’s career prospects and open doors to higher-level positions.

Publishing research and pursuing training programs focused on leadership development can also enhance a professional’s value in the clinical research field, setting them apart from their peers and positioning them for future leadership roles.

By recognizing the importance of networking, certifications, and leadership development, clinical research professionals can actively shape their career paths and unlock opportunities for growth and advancement.

Clinical Research Career Progression Paths

In the evolving field of clinical research, professionals have various career progression paths to choose from. These paths are shaped by the individual’s interests, the organization they work for, and their areas of specialization. Over the years, the industry has witnessed a shift towards recognizing the importance of skill development and structured career growth opportunities.

One common career progression path starts with Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs) who often transition to industry roles such as Clinical Trial Associate (CTA) or Clinical Research Associate (CRA). From there, professionals can advance to senior roles within these positions, gaining more responsibility and leadership opportunities. Other paths include moving into roles such as Clinical Trial Manager, Director of Clinical Operations, Regulatory Affairs Manager, Senior Data Manager, Clinical Research Scientist, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), or Quality Assurance Manager.

Michigan Medicine, for instance, has implemented a career ladder for Clinical Research Coordinators. This ladder consists of market titles like Clinical Research Assistant, Clinical Research Technician, Clinical Research Coordinator Associate, Clinical Research Coordinator Intermediate, Clinical Research Coordinator Senior, Clinical Research Coordinator Lead, and Clinical Research Project Manager. The ladder provides a clear framework for growth and advancement within the organization.

To further enhance their career prospects, professionals in clinical research can pursue certifications such as ACRP CCRC, SoCRA CCRP, or their equivalents. These certifications are often required for positions at the CRC – Associate level or higher. New employees are typically given six months from their start date to acquire certification, and the expense is usually covered by the hiring individual or central unit.

The outlook for clinical research careers is promising, with an estimated growth rate of 9% per year. This positive trend indicates a growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry. The Joint Task Force Clinical Trial Competency Framework outlines eight distinct domains for acquiring basic competencies in clinical research, ensuring that professionals are well-rounded in their knowledge and skills.

Professionals in clinical research have the advantage of diverse career pathways and the flexibility to switch pathways to reach their ultimate destination. The industry offers various types of employers, including pharmaceutical sponsors, device companies, contract research organizations (CROs), technology and service vendors, regulatory authorities, site networks, and academic institutions. These opportunities provide a wide array of options for professionals to explore and grow in their careers.

The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) is a leading professional organization that provides training opportunities for individuals looking to enhance their clinical research skills. These training programs offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights to support professionals in their career development.

It’s important to note that job titles in the clinical research industry may vary across organizations, making it challenging to create a standardized pathway map. However, the dynamic landscape of the industry ensures that there are ample opportunities for growth and advancement for those willing to invest in their skills and knowledge.

Clinical Research Consulting Opportunities

For professionals in the clinical research field, there are numerous avenues to explore when it comes to career progression. One such avenue is clinical research consulting, which offers exciting opportunities to provide expert guidance and support to organizations and individuals involved in clinical research.

Clinical research consultants play a pivotal role in assisting with various aspects of the research process. They have extensive knowledge and experience in areas such as study design, regulatory strategies, data analysis, and more. Consulting allows these experts to utilize their skills and expertise to help clients navigate the complexities of clinical research.

As a clinical research consultant, professionals have the flexibility to work independently or collaborate with organizations like Clinical Research Organizations (CROs), Site Management Organizations (SMOs), or even pharmaceutical companies. This allows them to work in different settings and gain exposure to a variety of projects and therapeutic areas.

Clinical research consulting offers several benefits for professionals seeking career growth. By working as a consultant, individuals can broaden their skillset, expand their network, and enhance their industry knowledge. It also provides opportunities to work on innovative research projects and contribute to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care.

In addition to their clinical research expertise, consultants can also draw on their professional networks to provide value-added services to clients. Networking plays a vital role in consulting, as it allows consultants to connect with industry professionals, build relationships, and attract new opportunities. By collaborating with other experts, consultants can expand their reach and establish themselves as trusted advisors in the field.

To succeed as a clinical research consultant, professionals should consider obtaining advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Clinical Research or an MBA. These degrees can provide valuable knowledge and skills in business management, project management, and leadership, which are essential for consulting roles.

Certifications can also enhance career growth in clinical research consulting. Credentials like the Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) or Project Management Professional (PMP) demonstrate a consultant’s commitment to professional development and expertise in their respective fields.

Clinical Research Consulting Roles

Clinical research consulting offers a diverse range of roles for professionals to explore. Some potential roles in this field include:

• Clinical Research Consultant
• Regulatory Affairs Consultant
• Data Analysis Consultant
• Study Design Consultant
• Project Management Consultant

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available in clinical research consulting. Professionals can choose to specialize in specific areas or offer comprehensive consulting services, depending on their interests and expertise.

In the rapidly evolving field of clinical research, consulting offers an exciting and rewarding career path for professionals looking to make a significant impact. Whether working independently or collaborating with organizations, clinical research consultants play a vital role in ensuring the success of research projects and the advancement of medical knowledge.

Partnership with R&D Partners for Career Success

In the dynamic field of clinical research, partnering with the right organization can make all the difference in achieving career success. One such organization that can provide invaluable support and opportunities is R&D Partners, a leading clinical research staffing agency.

R&D Partners is dedicated to helping individuals excel in their clinical research careers by offering insights, strategies, guidance, and exclusive career opportunities. With their extensive industry knowledge and network, they can assist professionals at every stage of their career, from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles.

What sets R&D Partners apart is their strong focus on building partnerships and collaborations. They understand that in the fast-paced world of clinical research, collaboration is key to driving innovation and advancing medical breakthroughs.

With over 200 active collaborations globally, R&D Partners has established itself as a trusted partner in the industry. They engage in approximately 100 public-private partnerships through R&D across 76 countries, ensuring a global reach for their candidates.

More than 60% of Takeda’s pipeline, a renowned pharmaceutical company, is partnered, highlighting the significance of collaborating for success in the clinical research field. R&D Partners actively supports Takeda in their mission, working closely with their R&D Center for External Innovation (CEI).

The CEI aims to form innovative partnerships, driving external engagement opportunities from early academic research to late-stage clinical collaborations. This presents a wide range of possibilities for professionals looking to advance their careers in clinical research.

Additionally, R&D Partners aligns with Takeda’s focus on innovation by collaborating with Takeda Ventures, Inc., their corporate venture capital group. This strategic partnership allows R&D Partners to invest in innovative life science companies that are in line with Takeda’s R&D focus areas, further expanding career opportunities for their candidates.

Furthermore, R&D Partners recognizes the importance of digital capabilities in the healthcare industry. Through their partnership with Takeda Digital Ventures, they actively invest in companies that leverage digital innovation to improve patient outcomes and care delivery, creating a pathway for professionals to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in the field.

R&D Partners also plays a crucial role in supporting independent science studies through Takeda’s Investigator Initiated Research (IIR) program. This program allows researchers to conduct studies related to Takeda’s compounds and therapeutic areas of interest, further enhancing career opportunities for clinical research professionals.

In collaboration with Kyoto University’s CiRA, T-CiRA, a joint program, focuses on regenerative medicine and drug discovery, shaping the future of healthcare. Through these partnerships, R&D Partners provides professionals with unique opportunities to be at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation.

Roles and Opportunities in Clinical Research

Partnering with R&D Partners not only opens doors to exciting collaborations but also provides access to various roles and opportunities in the clinical research industry. Here are some roles that professionals can explore:

These are just a few examples of the diverse roles available in clinical research. R&D Partners can help professionals find the right fit based on their skills, experience, and career aspirations.

By partnering with R&D Partners, individuals can gain access to exclusive job opportunities, expert guidance, and a network of industry professionals. R&D Partners’ collaborative approach to career development can significantly contribute to the success and growth of clinical research professionals.

Clinical Research Career Paths Infographic

Proclinical Infographics offers a comprehensive visual representation of the diverse career paths in clinical research. This infographic highlights the various options available for professionals looking to enter or advance within the field.

With the growing demand for skilled clinical research professionals, it’s essential to understand the different roles and opportunities available. The infographic outlines the key positions and responsibilities within the clinical research industry, providing valuable insights into career progression.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the roles showcased in the infographic:

Clinical Trial Manager:

The Clinical Trial Manager plays a pivotal role in overseeing the budget of a clinical trial. They ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively, ultimately contributing to the success of the trial.

Senior Clinical Research Associate I-III:

Senior Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are responsible for monitoring study sites and activities. They ensure compliance with protocol, regulations, and ethical standards while maintaining data integrity and participant safety.

Clinical Research Associate I-III:

Clinical Research Associates evaluate and interpret collected study data, providing critical insights that contribute to the overall success of the research. They ensure that data is accurate, complete, and compliant with regulatory requirements.

Clinical Trial Assistant:

The Clinical Trial Assistant plays a crucial role in managing and developing clinical trial teams. They support the performance and development of the team, ensuring smooth operations and efficient execution of trials.

In addition to the roles mentioned above, the infographic highlights positions such as Director of Clinical Team Management, Director of Clinical Trial Management, Director of Clinical Trial Project Management, VP/Head of Clinical Operations, and Clinical Project Manager. These roles involve strategic planning, budget management, and overseeing the overall operations and success of clinical trials and research projects.

It’s important to note that the path to a successful clinical research career involves acquiring the necessary qualifications and skills. Companies may offer structured training programs or external courses to equip individuals with the knowledge and expertise required in the field.

Additionally, professionals in the clinical research industry have various opportunities for further education and certifications. Diplomas or graduate certificates in clinical research can enhance job prospects and open doors to advanced roles.

Stay informed about global trends in clinical research by actively engaging with industry publications, attending webinars, and participating in ongoing education programs. Building a strong professional network is also crucial for career progression and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

As the demand for clinical research professionals continues to rise, it’s important to highlight your relevant skills and experience when applying for job opportunities. Emphasizing your attention to detail, effective communication, ethical conduct, data management, and regulatory knowledge can make you stand out in the competitive field of clinical research.

With a solid foundation in life sciences or a relevant discipline, a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum requirement for entry-level positions in the clinical research field. However, pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. degree can unlock advanced roles and provide opportunities for career growth.

The infographic serves as a valuable resource for understanding the multifaceted career paths available in clinical research. Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking advancement, it’s essential to explore the various options and tailor your career path to your strengths and aspirations.

Becoming a Clinical Director or VP

With the right experience and qualifications, clinical professionals have the potential to progress to higher-level positions such as clinical director or even Vice President (VP). These roles offer significant opportunities for career growth and the chance to make a lasting impact on the field of clinical research.

To become a clinical director or VP, professionals often need a combination of relevant education, experience, and demonstrated leadership abilities. Common educational backgrounds for clinical directors include bachelor’s degrees (43.3%), master’s degrees (32.7%), and associate degrees (10.8%). Gaining advanced degrees in fields such as healthcare administration, clinical research, or related fields can enhance the skills and knowledge required for these roles.

Key competencies for clinical directors include a deep understanding of patients (21.01%), clinical trials (12.36%), oversight (6.82%), and regulatory guidelines such as FDA (6.08%) and GCP (6.06%). Strong communication, organization, multitasking, and critical thinking skills are also necessary to effectively lead and manage clinical research teams.

Transitioning to the role of clinical director or VP is often a result of progression within the field and gaining experience in roles such as staff nurse, therapist team lead, or registered nurse for about 4-6 years. This experience allows professionals to develop the necessary expertise and leadership skills required for higher-level positions.

As a clinical director or VP, professionals play a crucial role in overseeing and leading clinical research teams. They are responsible for making strategic decisions, ensuring compliance with regulations, managing budgets, and contributing to the overall success of research studies. Additionally, they may be involved in developing and implementing research strategies, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving innovation in the field of clinical research.

The average yearly salary for a clinical director is $96,497 or $46.39 hourly, making these positions highly rewarding both professionally and financially. Job satisfaction ratings for clinical directors vary, with many reporting positive experiences related to staff growth and department development.

Overall, becoming a clinical director or VP offers clinical professionals the opportunity to advance their careers, have a significant impact on the healthcare industry, and contribute to the development of new treatments and therapies. With the right combination of education, experience, and skills, individuals can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding journey in clinical research leadership.

Image related to the field of Clinical Research

Clinical trial management career path.

The clinical trial management career path offers a rewarding and dynamic opportunity for individuals interested in the field of clinical research. Clinical trial managers play a crucial role in managing, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of clinical trials.

With a bachelor’s degree being the most common qualification held by clinical trial managers, it is evident that education plays a significant role in this career path. Approximately 60.13% of clinical trial managers hold a bachelor’s degree, while 21.8% have a master’s degree and some hold a doctorate.

As a clinical trial manager, responsibilities encompass various areas, including patient-related tasks, clinical trial management, clinical operations, clinical research, and oversight. Patient-related tasks account for 7.63% of the clinical trial manager’s responsibilities, while clinical trial management itself comprises 6.83% of their duties. Clinical operations and clinical research account for 6.27% and 6.23%, respectively, while oversight tasks represent 5.99% of the job responsibilities.

One of the key factors that make the clinical trial management career path enticing is the average yearly salary. Clinical trial managers earn an average salary of $93,644, making it an attractive field for those seeking financial stability. Additionally, the job is highly regarded within the industry, with a general rating of 5 stars.

However, it is essential to consider the challenges associated with the role. A user review of a clinical trial manager noted high stress and a lack of people interaction as cons of the job. While the career path offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to be aware of the potential challenges and ensure personal suitability.

To further advance in the clinical trial management career path, professionals can pursue certifications provided by reputable organizations. The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) offers various certifications, including ACRP Certified Professional (ACRP-CP), Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC), Clinical Research Associate (CCRA), Principal Investigator (CPI), ACRP Medical Device Professional Subspecialty (ACRP-MDP), and ACRP Project Manager Subspecialty. The Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) also provides the Certified Clinical Research Professional credential.

In terms of career opportunities, clinical trial coordinators can find employment in a range of settings, such as health care organizations, pharmaceutical companies, research hospitals, and government and private companies. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is significant, and job prospects are promising.

While a bachelor’s degree is typically the minimum education requirement to work as a clinical trial manager, having a master’s degree or a graduate certificate can set candidates apart. Work experience in health care or clinical research is also crucial for most positions.

Individuals interested in pursuing a clinical trial management career path should consider obtaining relevant education in subjects such as clinical research administration, health sciences, public health, microbiology, clinical research management, and medical technology. These areas of study will provide a solid foundation for success in this field.

Overall, the clinical trial management career path offers a fulfilling and challenging journey for those passionate about clinical research. It provides opportunities for personal and professional growth, lucrative salaries, and the chance to contribute to advancements in medical science.

Clinical Trial Management Career Path Statistics

Clinical Team Management Career Path

Within the field of clinical research, the clinical team management career path offers a rewarding and dynamic opportunity for individuals to lead and support team members in the pursuit of innovative medical advancements. This career path focuses on managing the day-to-day operations of clinical trials and ensuring the smooth execution of research protocols.

Clinical team managers are responsible for acting as direct line managers to associates, providing guidance and mentorship, and ensuring effective training and development opportunities. They review business processes and implement improvements to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, they play a crucial role in planning and organizing professional development activities to foster growth within the team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading and managing team members involved in clinical research projects
• Ensuring effective training and development of team members
• Reviewing and optimizing business processes
• Planning and organizing professional development activities

A career in clinical team management allows individuals to cultivate and showcase their leadership skills. The ability to effectively manage teams, navigate complex protocols, and drive collaboration among various stakeholders is essential in this role.

By pursuing a clinical team management career path, individuals have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the advancement of healthcare. They contribute to the successful execution of clinical trials and play a vital role in bringing life-changing treatments to patients.

With the rapid growth of the clinical research market, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals in clinical team management. Organizations value individuals who possess a solid educational foundation, hands-on experience, and relevant certifications. Most positions in clinical development require at least a bachelor’s degree in fields such as life sciences, pharmacy, or nursing. Certain roles, such as clinical project managers, may necessitate a master’s degree or higher education.

Professional certifications from reputable organizations, such as the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), can enhance credibility in the job market and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

While specific licenses may be required for certain roles, gaining hands-on experience through internships, research assistant positions, or entry-level roles is crucial when pursuing a career in clinical team management. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights into the intricacies of clinical research and helps individuals develop the skills necessary for effective team management.

Key Roles in Clinical Team Management:

• Clinical Research Associate
• Clinical Data Manager
• Clinical Trials Manager

As the clinical research field continues to expand, the job market for clinical team management professionals remains strong. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 14% annual increase in Clinical Research Associate (CRA) positions from 2014 to 2024, indicating significant job opportunities.

It’s important to note that career progression and salary growth in clinical team management depend on factors such as experience, education level, certifications, and performance. Individuals who continuously pursue professional development and expand their skill set have greater opportunities for advancement in this field.

Boston Scientific, a renowned company in the healthcare industry, exhibits low turnover rates among CRAs, indicating job stability and satisfaction within the organization. This highlights the potential for long-term career growth and fulfilling opportunities in clinical team management.

Aspiring professionals in clinical team management can further their education by pursuing master’s degree programs in clinical research, offered by esteemed institutions like Eastern Michigan University. These programs provide additional training opportunities and specialized knowledge to individuals aiming to excel in their careers.

To enhance their qualifications and marketability, CRAs often pursue clinical research certifications such as SOCRA’s Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP®) or the Association of Clinical Research Professionals-Certified Professional (ACRP-CP). These certifications validate their expertise, demonstrate a commitment to best practices, and showcase their dedication to advancing the field of clinical research.

Travel and Demands:

It’s important to consider that individuals in clinical team management roles, such as CRAs, spend a significant amount of time traveling to various research sites, covering different regions and states. This aspect of the job may impact their personal lives and relationships. However, for those who enjoy a dynamic work environment and embrace the challenges of traveling, this career path offers unique experiences and the opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams and communities.

Companies like Boston Scientific recognize the significance of proper onboarding and training for new CRAs. Their comprehensive onboarding process involves four to six months of training, ensuring that new hires receive thorough preparation and are equipped with the necessary skills to excel in their roles.

The clinical team management career path offers professionals the chance to contribute to groundbreaking medical advancements, drive team success, and make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. With immense job opportunities, solid salary prospects, and avenues for professional growth, individuals passionate about clinical research and team management can embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career journey.

Clinical Project Management Career Path

The clinical project management career path offers a rewarding and dynamic role in the field of clinical research. With the increasing demand for qualified professionals in clinical trial management and clinical project management, this career path presents numerous opportunities for growth and advancement.

Clinical project managers play a crucial role in planning and directing clinical trials. They are responsible for evaluating clinical data, maintaining study records, ensuring activities are delivered on time and budget, and developing trial plans. Their expertise and leadership are essential in overseeing the beginning and end of clinical research studies.

To pursue a career in clinical project management, a Bachelor’s degree in medicine, science, or a relevant field is usually required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s level degree, as it can facilitate easier advancement in the field. Additionally, having five or more years of experience in a relevant field is typically necessary to secure a position as a clinical project manager.

The primary difference between a clinical trial manager and a clinical project manager lies in the scope of their responsibilities. Clinical trial managers focus primarily on managing specific elements of clinical trials, while clinical project managers oversee entire drug or medical device trials across all functions. As a clinical project manager, you will have a diverse range of responsibilities, including drafting and checking paperwork related to clinical projects, reporting and summarizing data for regulatory purposes, maintaining thorough trial records, and determining participant eligibility.

Alongside technical skills, certain soft skills are essential for success in the clinical project management career path. Effective communication skills, problem-solving abilities, interpersonal skills, adaptability, and time management are highly valued in this role. Staying updated with industry trends, possessing good presentation skills, cultural sensitivity, and a continuous enthusiasm for learning are also competencies that can set a clinical project manager apart from others in the field.

Obtaining relevant certifications can further enhance your career prospects and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. Some of the top certifications for clinical project managers include Project Manager Professional (PMP), Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), Certified Clinical Project Manager (CCPM), Certification in Clinical Research (CCR), and Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC).

The timeline to become a clinical project manager typically ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on individual qualifications and experience. Once the necessary experience is gained, building a strong portfolio and resume is crucial for applying to clinical project management positions.

Clinical Project Management Career Path: Key Highlights

In terms of salary, clinical project managers had a median annual salary of $92,000 in February 2021, with a salary range from $61,000 for the lowest earners to over $133,000 for the highest earners. Experienced clinical project managers earned about $125,500, showcasing the impact of experience on salary growth.

Moreover, the job outlook for clinical project managers is promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 32% job growth for medical and health services managers, including clinical project managers, between 2019 and 2029, surpassing the average job growth for all occupations during the same period.

Overall, the clinical project management career path offers a challenging and impactful role in the field of clinical research. With increasing demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth, it is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about managing clinical trials and making a difference in the healthcare industry.

In conclusion, a career in clinical research offers promising prospects for individuals interested in making a meaningful impact in the field of medicine. With the increasing demand for skilled clinical researchers in Alberta, Canada, and the conducive environment created by numerous pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and healthcare facilities in Calgary, there are ample opportunities for career growth and specialization.

Professionals in clinical research have the chance to work on international projects as clinical trials become more globalized. With diverse career paths available, including roles in clinical operations, regulatory affairs, data management, and medical writing, individuals can pursue their areas of interest and experience professional growth.

To excel in the field, acquiring certifications such as the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) and joining professional organizations like the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) can enhance networking opportunities and industry connections. Furthering education, such as pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Research or a related field, can also open doors to higher-level positions.

Overall, a successful clinical research career requires tenacity, industry experience, and preferably a PhD or a Life Sciences degree. By gaining experience across different types of organizations and specializing in specific fields such as oncology, cardiology, or neurology, individuals can progress and reach roles like Clinical Research Lead, Clinical Project Manager, Clinical Specialist, and even Director.

What career opportunities are available in clinical research?

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Welcome to this career-focused blog, a dedicated space for exploring the dynamic and evolving world of career industry. This platform delves into the intricacies of professional development, industry trends, and practical strategies for career advancement. This is a place for those who are passionate about their professional growth and eager to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.

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Clinical Research Positions

Clinical research trials require a variety of people working together to execute a proper trial. There are several different career paths in clinical research, from technical positions to administrative positions.

Clinical Research Associate (CRA), Field Monitor, Clinical Monitor or Trial Monitor

The clinical research associate supervisors and monitors are requested and paid by sponsors who hire them to help with the administrative parts of clinical trials. Their duties include the filing of data, reviewing of case reports, performing investigational product accountability, and making sure that all necessary items are properly filed and documented. They also assist with pharmaceutical research, devices research, and biologics research. They ensure that good clinical practices are followed and that protocols are observed. For those interested in becoming a Clinical Research Associate, detailed training can be found here .

Clinical Research Data Manager

Clinical research data managers are in charge of the systems that produce data. Data managers review the protocol for trials before they start. They go through all the data involved in clinical trials strategically and analytically. They also review regulations, prepare protocols, and help the senior manager to ensure that the clinical trials are carried on smoothly. They are in charge of the monitoring, documentation, and information of all research studies. Learn how to manage clinical research data with our Clinical Trials Assistant Training .

Clinical Research Scientist

The clinical research scientist conducts clinical research trial roles that require years of working on clinical trials and clinical trial sites. They conduct a scientific test and ensure that there is proper monitoring of clinical research . They are also familiar with submission processes of clinical research studies, drawing up regulation affairs frameworks, assessment of study, and so on. To dive deeper into this role, consider our Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification .

Biostatistician

The biostatistician operate when there is a compilation of clinical research data. The biostatistician sets up parameters for data collection clinical research products use to fulfill certain criteria. They also analyze all the clinical trial data and come up with a documented report that contains the results. Enhance your skills in biostatistics with our Medical Monitor Certification .

These clinical research positions above are regarded as some of the highest and high paying clinical research professionals positions in the world right now.

What are you waiting for? Register for courses get certified and start practicing.

Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.

Discover more from Clinical Research Training | Certified Clinical Research Professionals Course .

Everything You Need to Know About CROs

Why should you take clinical research training.

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Career opportunities in clinical research.

July 20, 2021

Field offers opportunities for professionals with health, science or technology background

Career opportunities in the clinical research field are many and varied, with employment settings ranging from pharmaceutical and biotechnology, to medical device companies, contract research organizations, hospitals, educational institutions, independent contractors and more.

Many professionals with a strong science or healthcare related background — such as nurses, pharmacists, medical technologists, physicians and more — are well-positioned to join the clinical research field. Here are 10 career paths in the field.

1.  Clinical research coordinator

Also called research nurses, site managers and clinical study coordinators , clinical research coordinators (CRCs) are responsible for the daily operations of clinical research studies at sites like hospitals, independent medical practices, universities, medical schools and other research companies and institutions. CRCs may provide direct care or treatment to patients participating in a study, work with the study’s principal investigators, recruit study subjects and more. The background of most CRCs is in nursing and other healthcare professions.

2. Clinical research associate

The clinical research associate or CRA, also called a clinical monitor or trial monitor , works with clinical trial sites to monitor studies and ensure that standard regulatory, operations and ethical standards are being followed. CRAs may be employed by pharmaceutical companies, government research agencies or medical research institutes, and often travel between study sites for monitoring visits, as well as conducting virtual visits. CRAs often obtain their clinical research experience through working several years as CRCs.

3. Clinical research data specialist

The importance of data management and analysis in clinical research cannot be overstated. This includes data from research studies and electronic medical records, as well as other data from disparate systems and sources. Opportunities around clinical research data include data analyst, data manager, data coordinator, data associate and more.

4. Clinical investigator or clinical researcher 5. Research pharmacist

Life scientists, physicians, pharmacists and other scientists are at the core of clinical research. Their work drives the innovations and breakthroughs that result in improved outcomes and treatments for current and future patients. Roles may include research scientist or investigator as part of a research team or as principal investigator, lead scientist, etc.

6. Clinical project manager

Clinical research is a complex enterprise with multiple stakeholders, teams, tasks and challenges. Clinical trials project managers must have an advanced understanding of project management techniques and methodologies and apply them to coordinate all aspects of a clinical study.

7. Clinical laboratory technologist or technician 8. Medical laboratory scientist

Medical laboratory technologists and scientists are directly involved in preparing and analyzing research specimens in the lab. They may be employed in hospital-based research labs, pharmaceutical and biomedical companies, or other research institutions. Medical laboratory technicians usually have an associate degree and advance to medical laboratory scientist with a bachelor’s degree and experience in the field.

9. Medical/scientific writer 10. Marketing and communications professional

Writing, marketing and communication professionals with a medical or scientific background play a vital role in research. They write materials for scientific publications and other documents such as abstracts, posters, manuscripts, scientific presentations. They may be involved in grant-writing, publicity campaigns, scientific documentation, patient and stakeholder communications, and more.

Do you have a passion for making a difference?

“Clinical research is a field for individuals who have a passion for leaving their footprint in research as well as seeing the impact their efforts make to humankind,” said Michele Welch, program director and lead faculty for the University of Delaware’s Clinical Trials Management Online Certificate Program .

“The University of Delaware’s Clinical Trials Management Certificate program has been designed to help individuals understand the challenges that the industry faces today and provides an overview of opportunities for career change,” explained Welch, a clinical research professional with over 20 years’ experience in global pharmaceutical drug development.

UD certificate program

UD’s Clinical Trials Management Certificate program is aimed at healthcare professionals who want to learn more about the clinical research and new product development process in today’s environment, which includes device, biologicals and drug research. Curriculum aligns with Association of Clinical Research Professionals certification exam. Generally offered three times a year with start dates in February, May and September, this online 14-week program covers the logistics of site management, including start up, maintenance, and close out, with the corresponding collection and management of data, as well as regulatory, privacy and compliance issues.

UD students and UD alumni are eligible for a discount when enrolling in this program. Discounts are also available for military personnel and veterans, and groups of two or more individuals from one business or organization. For more information including a detailed curriculum, or to register, visit the Clinical Trials Management Certificate or write to [email protected] .

Learn more or register now!

Career resources in clinical research

• Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) — Clinical Research Job Opportunities
• Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) — Career Opportunities
• Careers in Clinical Research

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Clinical Research

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We are taking clinical research to the next level. Leverage data, in-house technologies and analytics to enable evidenced-based solutions that will help reimagine clinical development and improve patient outcomes.

Joining IQVIA means unlocking access to supportive leadership, a wide variety of career opportunities and technology-enabled resources that make doing your job more efficient. Here, you'll gain a sense of pride that comes with being part of something bigger than you ever imagined.

Featured Clinical Research Areas

Monitoring careers.

Our clinical research associates play a vital role in driving the evolution of clinical development. They bring passion, ambition and a deep level of expertise that’s used to help solve complex clinical issues while ensuring adherence to regulations and sponsor requirements.

Clinical Operations Careers

From strategy development to trial execution to regulatory management, embark on a fulfilling career on IQVIA’s Clinical Operations team. Pair your drug development process expertise and our in-house technologies to deliver best-in-class customer and site experiences, and more notably, make a meaningful impact on improving patient lives.

Clinical Project Management & Leadership Careers

Play a pivotal role in driving clinical trial delivery through right first-time behavior and risk-based project management with a career in Clinical Project Management / Leadership at IQVIA. With a steadfast focus on quality, meticulous financial control and strong communication skills, you’ll serve as a trusted liaison between IQVIA and our customers. Spearhead medical breakthroughs that will leave a lasting impact on patients around the globe.

Clinical Data Management Careers

Transform clinical trial efficiency and deliver medical breakthroughs faster. Clinical Data Management oversees the acquisition, validation and analysis of complex clinical trial data, ensuring its accuracy and compliance with regulatory guidelines. Put your passions to work with a career contributing to life-changing research that positively impacts patient outcomes and shapes the future of healthcare.

Statistical Services Careers

A Statistical Services career means harnessing the power of diverse datasets and strategic methodologies to unlock new possibilities for clinical trials. Working cross-functionally with teams around the world, you’ll develop innovative statistical strategies and analytical solutions to support evidence-based decision-making and help customers navigate the complexities of drug development and regulatory submissions.

At IQVIA, I always value our ability to positively impact patient lives, the supportive leadership and the abundance of growth opportunities available. I know my goal of becoming a Regional Head or Alliance Lead is achievable here.

Christy Willetts

Associate Director, Clinical Operations

Not only does IQVIA provide us excellent with standard training, but we have resources to help us gain knowledge and soft skills as well as supportive colleagues to help problem solve and navigate the changing day-to-day responsibilities of a CRA. I also love our passion for continuous growth and the ample development opportunities that will enable me a successful future here.

Senior Clinical Research Associate

IQVIA invests in me, awakens my talent, and helps me develop skills for new opportunities. As a Project Leader, I’m building teams and processes to support all stages of the project lifecycle. What makes it all worth it? Everything I do contributes to the improvement of patients’ health and well-being.

Nadezhda Simeonova

Senior Clinical Project Manager

When I started my career at IQVIA, I was impressed by the in-house technology. Ten years later, I’m even more impressed. But for me, it’s the people. I’ve had the opportunity to mentor project leaders as well as be a mentee. Growing with my colleagues makes me feel closer and that we’re all empowering each other to be our best.

Julie Lightfoot

Clinical Project Management Director

What you can expect

Working in Clinical Research at IQVIA, regardless of your role, you will thrive within our dynamic culture and experience:

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Beyond the Lab: Data Science

Clinical Research Coordinator Associate

🔍 school of medicine, stanford, california, united states.

The Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, within Stanford University Department of Medicine, is a dynamic and innovative center dedicated to excellence in research, medical education, and clinical care. Our Division is driven by over 90 faculty members and a cadre of staff who are the pillar of strength in the Division's ongoing efforts into the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.

We are seeking a Clinical Research Coordinator Associate (CRCA) who is passionate about clinical research and wants to deliver results. The CRCA will have the opportunity to work with a robust clinical research team, hand in hand with the Principal Investigators, Clinical Research Manager and other associates in support of the Interventional Affinity Group and the Structural Heart Research Program.

The successful applicant will collaborate with external vendors, and enjoy working in a dynamic work environment. Exceptional diplomacy, interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is a high degree of integrity. Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously are also critical attributes.

If you are interested in supporting translational medicine and contributing to Stanford Medicine’s mission, we invite you to join our team.

Duties include:

• Serve as primary contact with research participants, sponsors, and regulatory agencies.  Coordinate studies from start-up through close-out.
• Determine eligibility of and gather consent from study participants according to protocol.  Assist in developing recruitment strategies.
• Coordinate collection of study specimens and processing.
• Collect and manage patient and laboratory data for clinical research projects.  Manage research project databases, develop flow sheets and other study related documents, and complete study documents/case report forms.
• Ensure compliance with research protocols, and review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents. Prepare regulatory submissions, and ensure Institutional Review Board renewals are completed.
• Assemble study kits for study visits, monitor scheduling of procedures and charges, coordinate documents, and attend monitoring meetings with sponsors, acting as primary contact.
• Monitor expenditures and adherence to study budgets and resolve billing issues in collaboration with finance and/or management staff.
• Interact with the principal investigator regularly, ensuring patient safety and adherence to proper study conduct.
• Ensure essential documentation and recording of patient and research data in appropriate files per institutional and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in monitor visits and regulatory audits.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Relevant graduate degree and 3 years of experience in clinical research preferred.
• Experience with research protocols and regulatory or governing bodies, which include HIPAA and FDA regulations, Institutional.
• Review Board requirements, and Good Clinical Practices.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Proven ability to work independently and take ownership of a project.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively in a team environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple projects and timelines.
• Detail oriented with excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Society of Clinical Research Associates or Association of Clinical.
• Research Professionals certification is preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
• Clinical research project management experience.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

• Two-year college degree and two years related work experience or a Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of related education and relevant experience.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

• Working toward certification(s) to perform basic patient measurements and tests, such as phlebotomy and EKG.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat and use fine light/fine grasping.
• Occasionally sit, reach above shoulders, perform desk based computer tasks, use a telephone and write by hand, lift, carry, push, and pull objects that weigh up to 40 pounds.
• Rarely kneel, crawl, climb ladders, grasp forcefully, sort and file paperwork or parts, rarely lift, carry, push, and pull objects that weigh 40 pounds or more.

  WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or exposure to chemicals, blood, body fluid or tissues and risk of exposure to contagious diseases and infections.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
• Occasional evening and weekend hours.  

WORKING STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu/ .  

The expected pay range for this position is $31.73 - $36.54 hourly. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Why Stanford is for You Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources at [email protected]. For all other inquiries, please submit a contact form .

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

• Schedule: Full-time
• Job Code: 1013
• Employee Status: Regular
• Requisition ID: 104418
• Work Arrangement : On Site

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Clinical Research Coordinator

Durham, NC, US, 27710

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

Occupational Summary

Provide leadership and coordination in the conduct of multiple, complex oncology clinical trials and research studies including Investigational Products [IP] for the Duke Cancer Institute’s [DCI] Brain Tumor Center. The Oncology Clinical Research Unit [CRU] oversees the conduct of research. 

Work Preformed

Operations, Study and Site Management – 45% Effort

Knowledgeable in regulatory and institutional policies and processes; applies appropriately in study documentation, and SOPs. May train others in these policies and processes. Prepares for and provides support for study audit visits, including support for the reviewer. Prepares for DCI routine Monitoring Visits (DCI MV) and serve as point of contact for the DCI Monitoring Team (MT) and Safety Oversight Committee’s (SOC’s) expectations. Addresses and corrects findings. 

Maintains participant level documentation for all assigned studies, and/or require access to the Duke EHR.  Follows SOPs and strategies to manage and retain research subjects. Recruits research participants according to study protocol. Screens participants for minimal risk studies.  Independently employs simple procedures for collecting, preparing, processing, shipping, and maintaining inventory of specimens.

Act as clinical liaison between Surgical, Biorepository and Clinical Research teams to coordinate tissue and biospecimen collection for IRB approved protocols within PRTBTC. Run reports to identify and prescreen eligible patients to be presented with a consent forms for tissue bank studies.  Build and maintain daily schedule to coordinate in-clinic or eConsent by data staff for the potential patients identified.  Track patients who consented across different platforms: Spreadsheets, Enrollment logs, REDCap or other platforms that may be established in future. 

Maintains spreadsheets and Enrollment logs for biospecimen collected for tissue banking studies for current IRB approved protocols and future research.  Employ strategies to maintain recruitment and retention rates and assist participants with individual needs.  Collect information to determine appropriate study feasibility, recruitment and retention strategies.  Evaluate processes to identify issues related to recruitment and retention rates; offer solutions.  Maintain study's compliance with institutional requirements and policies.  Maintain appropriate study-level documentation including regulatory binders, enrollment logs, and patient registration in the system of record.

Record adverse events [AE]and report promptly.  Oversee maintenance of Delegation of Authority Logs and training of key personnel on study specific duties. Assist with the development of Conflict of Interest [COI], Data Safety Monitoring Plans [DSMPs], and Research Data Security Plans [RDSPs].  Assist with the coordination of external monitoring boards. Follow procedures and documentation of study payment and participant care expenses in a timely fashion.  Monitor financial study milestones and report appropriately.  Coordinate with financial teams and participate in budget development.  Assist with study budgets and closeouts.

Employ strategies to maintain recruitment and retention rates and assist participants with individual needs.  Collect information to determine appropriate study feasibility, recruitment and retention strategies.  Evaluate processes to identify issues related to recruitment and retention rates; offer solutions. 

Coordinate study activities with teammates and colleagues to successfully implement and conduct the study.  Recognize and offer solutions to study problems. Escalate issues appropriately.  Take part in site initiation and closeout visits.  Assist in the development of new studies.

Communication – 20% Effort

Serve as primary liaison with sponsors, study personnel and PI for assigned studies.  Collaborate, and communicate with other study personnel as required.  Communicate concerns clearly in a professional manner.  Respond timely to emails, phone calls and questions.  Refer more complex questions and escalate issues to others as appropriate.  

Data – 10% Effort

Use Electronic Data Capture [EDC] systems and enter data accurately.  Detect issues related to data capture, collection or management and suggest solutions. Collaborate to develop REDCap database for data capture for minimal-risk studies. Reconcile spreadsheets with Oncore, REDCap and Master Biospecimen Trackers for all tissue banking studies.

Coordinate and implement procedures to collect IRB approved data from patient charts, medical records, archival records, interviews, questionnaires, and other sources; code, evaluate and interpret collected data and prepare appropriate documentation. Ensures compliance with protocol guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies; identifies problems and/or inconsistencies and monitor patients' progress. Enters and collects data. Develops data entry or collection SOPs or tools.

May provide oversight or training to study team members collecting or entering data. Independently corrects and documents incomplete, inaccurate or missing data for non-complex studies. Follows SOPs for quality assurance. Runs summaries and reports on existing data. Follows required processes, policies, and systems to ensure data security and provenance. Maps a protocol's data flow plan including data capture, storage, transfer, management, quality, and preparation for analysis (may include data from EDCs, EHR, mobile apps, etc.). Under supervision, develops validation and testing scripts for EDCs for new studies. Executes testing process after the completion of a build, or following any project changes or system upgrades.

Follows policy related to 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, and under supervision may conduct some testing and documentation for Part 11 projects. Provide data in response to “Data Pull requests” by clinicians/researchers for IRB approved protocols in a timely manner. Develops reports on study progress for the PI and other study team members and collaborators. Prepares data for deposit in repositories following publication or study closeout.

Prepares tables, data visualizations, and lay summaries to communicate study results with participants. Identifies data retention requirements that apply to the study from funders, data providers, and/or the institution. Follows applicable data retention and destruction requirements.

May train or oversee others. Creates clear visualizations to help communicate key information to stakeholders.

Under direct supervision from Biostatistician and PI may perform basic analyses on structured data. Under supervision, performs-identification on allowable data to Safe Harbor standards. Comply with required processes, policies, and systems to ensure data security and provenance.  Recognize and report vulnerabilities related to security of physical and electronic data.  Assist in investigating incomplete, inaccurate or missing data and documents to ensure accuracy and completeness of data.

Use Electronic Data Capture [EDC] systems and enter data accurately.  Detect issues related to data capture, collection or management and suggest solutions. 

Leadership – 10% Effort

Works with the manager to understand areas of opportunity and develop a training plan. Takes training courses and applies the knowledge and skills. May also train others in the skills learned.

Keeps current with research updates by attending key external offerings (i.e. Research Wednesday, RPN, events outside of Duke, etc.) and applies the learned material to the job. May disseminate information to others. Serves on committees and workgroups internal to Duke or externally in therapeutic area of research. Demonstrates interpersonal skills to get work done efficiently.

Recognizes and escalates organizational issues that could be optimized to improve research process. Demonstrates resilience and is adaptive to change. Uses advanced subject matter expertise in the therapeutic area or clinical research to solve problems. Communicates effectively with others, regardless of reporting relationship, to accomplish shared work objectives. Actively network. 

Ethics – 10% Effort

Communicate to study staff and research participants the difference between clinical and research activities, and the risks and benefits of study participations.  Recognize when staff and patients are having difficulty with the distinction and work hard to help them understand the differences.

Summarize and clarify for study teams, the professional guidelines and code of ethics related to the conduct of clinical research.

Follow SOPs to conduct and document consent for participants for minimal risk studies. Assists with the development of consent plans and documents for participants.

Communicates with the IRB staff and reviewers and handles issues appropriately. Prepares and submits documents needed for regulatory and safety reporting to sponsors and other agencies.

Other work as assigned. The intent of this job description is to provide a representative and level of the types of duties and responsibilities that will be required of positions given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the total of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Minimum Qualifications

Completion of an Associate's degree. Basic Life Saving [BLS] certification from the American Heart Association or Duke approved equivalent course is a requirement of this position.

Work requires a minimum of two years of relevant research experience. A Bachelor's degree may substitute for 2 years required experience. The preferred candidate will have oncology or research experience, training, education or clinical trials coordination experience.   

Job Code: 00001201 CLINICAL RESEARCH COORDINATOR Job Level: 52

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobsat Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Nearest Major Market: Durham Nearest Secondary Market: Raleigh

Duke is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual’s age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Read more about Duke’s commitment to affirmative action and nondiscrimination at hr.duke.edu/eeo.

Opening Eyes and Doors to New Career and Learning Opportunities in Clinical Research

Blog February 22, 2024

When the ACRP Certified Professional (ACRP-CP®) certification launched in 2017, it made available to the clinical research field a rigorously developed and validated test leading to a credential highlighting the skills of professionals whose job roles do not easily stay within the boundaries of traditional clinical research coordinators (CRCs), clinical research associates (CRAs), or principal investigators.  

Since then, more than 1,800 persons from all levels of experience in the profession have added the ACRP-CP designation to their signatures—alone or in tandem with other ACRP certifications. This blog begins a year-long series of visitations with some of the personalities behind all that “alphabet soup” of degrees and credentials one sees so often in the clinical research enterprise, in order to celebrate hard-earned achievements and highlight the benefits of certification to all stakeholders in the often-overlooked world of clinical trials.  

One person who had her eyes opened to clinical research not so long ago is Javanese Ling, SLPD, CCC, ACRP-CP, now a site manager and CRA with a major pharmaceutical firm. Still relatively new to the industry, she had earlier worked as a medical speech-language pathologist and as a teacher of neuroscience courses. Having already become involved with the Black Women in Clinical Research organization, her attention was turned even more toward the profession when she attended the ACRP 2023 conference in Dallas, Texas.  

“I found myself deeply inspired by clinical research professionals with whom I had the chance to network, as well as the wealth of learning opportunities available,” Ling says. “Through engaging with colleagues, I gained insights into their experiences with certification and the potential benefits it offers. I was inspired to pursue certification as a way to enhance my professional expertise and stay current in the rapidly evolving field. I believe that obtaining certification through ACRP, as I did last September, will not only validate my skills, but also contribute to the overall improvement and credibility of the clinical research community.”  

One of the earliest professionals to earn the ACRP-CP designation echoes those sentiments. Susmita Mullick, MS, ACRP-CP, President of the ACRP New Jersey Chapter, says, “ ACRP certification is recognized as a reputable and respectable program in the research industry. The certification program is well designed for clinical researchers who want to learn more about the intricacies of clinical trial operations, leverage the usage of ethical principles in human research, and implement robust methodology in trial designs. ACRP certification has paved the way for many opportunities and provided me with the strong foundation and confidence needed to work in clinical research.”  

Having started her career as a CRC at the site level before moving into a project manager role in a large pharmaceutical company, Mullick gained experience across a wide range of clinical operations duties for different therapeutic areas in just five years. Given the many complexities of the duties that might come her way on any given day, “I do recommend certification, as preparing to first earn it, and then to maintain it, provides valuable insights for streamlining trial processes, making more efficient use of technology platforms to  generate quality data, and  improving inspection readiness with performance metrics,” Mullick adds.  

Long-term professionals in the field have also seen the value of gaining the ACRP-CP designation. As the owner/employee of a site founded in 1999, and someone who has been in the industry since 1988, Matthew Bullock, ACRP-CP, President and Director of Operations for DiscoveResearch, Inc., became a CRC straight out of college, and held ACRP’s CCRC and CCRA certifications in earlier days of his career when they were the right options for him.  

“I was motivated by the credibility that certification provides for roles that were otherwise not recognized with a credential through my college degree and/or work experience alone in this field,” Bullock says. “To me, ACRP demonstrated the highest standards for certification offering the credentialing I was seeking.”  

As site owner, Bullock adds that he was not expecting workplace recognition/benefits from being ACRP certified. “However, I did (and still do) utilize ACRP certification to market myself for pursuing work and advancing my career in this field,” he notes. “I recommend ACRP certification for others, as well. Even after encouraging seasoned employees of mine to pursue ACRP certification for many years before some of them actually took the initiative, I was persistent and financially supported their ACRP memberships, certification fees, and maintenance fees, and that led to ACRP certification being obtained by some of these individuals.”  

Ling notes that she has experienced “significant workplace recognition and benefits” since becoming certified, and has joined ACRP’s Job Analysis Committee as a volunteer. “Certification has not only elevated my professional expertise and credibility in the field, but has also opened the door to new opportunities and increased responsibilities within my company. Furthermore, my company’s acknowledgment of the importance of certification and provision of expense reimbursement demonstrate its commitment to supporting continuous learning and the growth and development of its employees. I highly recommend certification for others in similar positions.”  

Obtaining certification not only validates one’s expertise, but also demonstrates a commitment to professional development and staying abreast of industry standards, Ling explains. “It can enhance credibility, open up new opportunities, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the field,” she says. “Certification serves as a valuable investment in both personal and career growth.”

Edited by Gary Cramer  

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Jobs in the acrp career center.

• Experienced CRC
• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Senior Clinical Research Coordinator