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5 Entry level jobs in clinical research to look for

Clinical research is the sunrise sector galloping fast towards achieving newer standards regularly. Hundreds of private companies apply for drug patents of drug research, drug trial and testing of a drug before it is put in the market. Besides public organizations like clinical research institutions, medical organizations carry out a number of research and trials of drugs in clinical research. Today this sector offers excellent job opportunities for talented and fresher.

Required academic qualifications

If you have academic expertise in the subject like biotechnology, microbiology, life sciences, chemical engineering, biochemistry, medicine, pharmacy or any other allied field, you can look forward for a lucrative career options in the booming sector of clinical research. There are a number of clinical research institutions which offer specific degree and diploma specifically in clinical trials and research. Besides, you can also register for a course in clinical data management. The level of study you choose determines the type of entry level you would be suitable for. Among the most popular entry level jobs in clinical research, drug research, co-ordination, data management, nursing and midwifery are there. Each of the roles however requires a knack and expertise to handle the research project.

Hot career options in clinical research

A number of specific jobs are available in clinical research. You can choose as per your interest and academic credential you posses. Read on to know the 5 entry level jobs in clinical research to look for when you choose to build excellent career in the clinical research industry.

Clinical research coordinator (CRCs)

Coordinators in clinical trials are responsible for coordinating besides preparing the outlay for conducting research and screening the qualified participants/patients who are suitable for drug trial. As a clinical research coordinator you are required to ensure that the report of a research case has been prepared accurately and correctly. Coordinators also ensure that the preset guidelines for a particular trial are complied with. Further you can choose the responsibilities in different settings like disease centers, physician offices, hospitals or biomedical companies.

A diploma from Association of Clinical-Research Professionals (ACRP) would enhance career prospects considerably. After initial stints in clinical trial coordinators, you can look forward to qualify for the positions like medical research, pharmaceuticals or nursing positions.

How to acquire ACRP certificate:

This certificate is being recognized by the clinical research companies globally. It is an online certificate exam. With this certificate, you get and edge over your peers. As of toady more than 16400 coordinators have acquired this certificate successfully. Fees for this certificate by ACRP has been set at $547 for standard program. You can look forward for the positions of project manger, senior clinical research professionals, etc.

Clinical research nursing (RN)

As a nurse in clinical research, you would be responsible for managing all nursing affairs which are conducted in all research ambiences. You work in tandem with the health professional where your profile relates with the treatment of a particular disease. Just like all other positions, you are required to have nursing background to build career in the nursing field. After entry level experience in the nursing, you may be appointed as the incharge of managing affairs of difficulties of patients, protocol for patients treatment.

A degree in nursing is a must to be a professional nurse in clinical research. You need to be a registered nurse (RN). Generally nursing degree can be completed in two or three years.

Clinical trial associates (CTA)/Clinical research associates (CRA)

A job in clinical research is considered to be the entry level opportunity to go in for research in clinical research. Associates are generally involved in the implementation, designing as well as monitoring of clinical drug trials. They have to handle complex drug trials. Further they have to ensure the good clinical trial practices are maintained. Associates are also bestowed with the responsibility of preparing presentations and specifying manuscripts for research meetings. There are many clinical research organizations which offer training programs you can apply for. After successful stint in entry level positions, you could rise to the level of research executive, research advisor, and group manager or operation director. You should have passion for clinical trails and research for carrying out trials of the drug to excel in the field.

Clinical research investigator

As an investigator, you are responsible for recruiting clinical trial staff members which are responsible for developing new drugs and trials. You are required to have thorough rules and regulations including GCP (Good clinical practices) guidelines. You can acquire GCP certificate from American Academy for Pharmaceutical-Physicians and Investigators. Exams are conducted twice a year.

Data management trainee

If you are good at calculating and analytical skills, you will surely find this profile matching with your interests.

What do you need

A degree in biomedical engineering, biostatistics or such other expertise would be the valuable tool in your hand to grab excellent opportunities in data management.


SCDM (Society-for-Clinical-Data-Management) certificate:

This certificate is the ticket to the excellent career in clinical data management. Once completed, this certificate is renewed for every three year. You can become member of the society by paying just $90 (USD).

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