How to Become a Clinical Research Associate
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Clinical Research Associate
What does a Clinical Research Associate do?
A Clinical Research Associate participates in the design, administration, and execution of clinical research trials. Conducts standard tests in accordance with established policies and procedures. Being a Clinical Research Associate analyzes and evaluates clinical data gathered during research. Ensures compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives. Additionally, Clinical Research Associate possesses knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) research standards, and JCAHO and International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Requires a bachelor's degree. May require ACRP or SOCRA certification. Typically reports to a manager. The Clinical Research Associate occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Clinical Research Associate typically requires 2-4 years of related experience.
A clinical research associate typically assists in designing the clinical trial and may be responsible for communicating the findings to the research communities.
CRAs typically make sure that the clinical trials are conducted according to government regulations and ethical standards, as well.
In addition to monitoring the trial, a clinical research associate may also be responsible for recruiting and screening people to take part in clinical trials.
Two years of experience in pharmaceutical research, medical research, or nursing may also be required.
The ability to convey information effectively when speaking to others, knowledge of mathematics and science, and the ability to teach others could also be helpful for a career as a clinical research associate.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Clinical Research Associate
Best tips for those who want to become a Clinical Research Associate
Here are some tips to become a Clinical Research Associate.
Through work experience and exposure to different companies to get experience in a variety of therapeutic areas and also through recruitment companies and by replying to job offers.
Just a small networking club held at university.
develop a competitive compensation package.
identify the top skills for clinical research associates.
write an eye-catching job description.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Clinical Research Associate
Best colleges and universities for Clinical Research Associate
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
- Rollins College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Clinical Research Associate
Is being a Clinical Research Associate Worth it?
Research shows ACRP results in higher enrollment rates, lower protocol deviations, fewer 483 Warning Letters, improved regulatory compliance, and better inspection performance.
You may see your interview for a clinical research associate position as a high-stress ordeal or daunting challenge.
Look at your prior and future research, weaving them together into a coherent story of your career to present during the interview.
Come to the interview prepared to discuss your role in current and future research.
Weave your past research into a coherent story that meshes with the clinical research you will be performing.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Clinical Research Associate
What skills do you need to be a Clinical Research Associate?
There are skills required to succeed in every role, and this one is no different. Strategic knowledge of the follow skills will be required: Clinical Data Analysis, Clinical Data Management, Clinical Research, Medical Writing, Microscopy, Research and Development, Research Design. For success, a grasp of the following is key: Clinical Trial Management Software. Your ability to stand out from the competition depends on these skills, as well as your resume, interview, and other factors.
Develop a comprehensive knowledge of clinical study protocol and other relevant documents.
Maintain required regulatory files for all clinical trials to ensure regulatory compliance.
Train study site personnel on the clinical protocol, study procedures, and electronic data capture as required.
Trained to administer ADOS for clinical practice and research reliability at University of Michigan Autism and Communications Disorders Center.
While each individual clinical research associate position will list a unique combination of desired skills and experiences, certain qualifications are fairly universal.
Step 6: View average salary for Clinical Research Associate
How much does a Clinical Research Associate make?
The average salary range for a Clinical Research Associate is from $69,718 to $91,283. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
-
View average salary for the United States
-
Adjust salary by state
Average salary for Clinical Research Associate jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Clinical Research Associate jobs, and apply.
Looking for Clinical Research Associate jobs?
Here are some Clinical Research Associate jobs in the United States.