5 Tips and Tricks to Working from Home in Clinical Research During a Pandemic…or remotely

The COVID-19 crisis has created a new normal in the workplace. Many companies have required their employees to work remotely as much as possible, and the clinical research field is no different. In this unprecedented time, the FDA has encouraged the use of technology, telehealth, and remote drug deliveries for conducting clinical trials. For many clinical research professionals, the shift to remote work can be challenging and difficult to navigate. However, experts believe that virtual clinical trials are going to be a huge part of the field’s future. To effectively manage these trials, consider the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification. This article has compiled some of the best tips and tricks to help you plan a productive and fulfilling workday at home.

Check Out Company Guidelines

Working in a pandemic is a special circumstance that deserves special considerations from employers. What a lot of people forget is that most companies have created HR guidelines for employees working during a time of crisis. Reviewing these guidelines can help you understand your company’s remote work policies, as well as procedures and expectations. For those looking to further understand and comply with regulatory standards, consider exploring the ICH-GCP course to deepen your knowledge on international guidelines. Additionally, the role of Pharmacovigilance Certification is crucial in ensuring drug safety, which is paramount during such trials.

Enhancing Team Coordination

Effective communication is key in remote work settings, especially when coordinating clinical trials. Clinical Trials Assistants play a vital role in this, and gaining specialized skills through the Clinical Trials Assistant Training can enhance your ability to manage projects efficiently. For Clinical Research Associates (CRAs), who ensure the smooth execution of these trials, the CRA certification can provide the necessary training to adapt to the evolving landscape.

Special Roles in Clinical Research

For advanced positions such as Medical Monitors and Principal Investigators, specific certifications like the Medical Monitor Certification and the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification are essential. These certifications prepare you for high-level oversight and critical decision-making roles necessary for the success of remote clinical trials.

Set physical and social boundaries

One of the chief complaints of working from home is being unable to focus. It is easy to get distracted when you are a few steps from the TV, or you are sharing the space with other people. To have a distraction-free workday, it is important to create a designated workspace that you feel comfortable working in. This way, as soon as you enter the room, your brain is ready to concentrate on the right thing. 

In addition, although it is important to socialize, set boundaries with those around you to make sure that you leave the socializing to after work is over. 

Get into a Routine

Even though you are working from home, it can be very helpful to a structured schedule. When creating a work routine, it is not only important to determine when you should start working, it is also important to determine when you should stop. This helps prevent burnout and allows you to focus on other important things in your life. 

Get the Right Tech

When you’re in clinical research, having reliable technology is vital to many positions. For example, it is important that your computer can run the programs and softwares you need for your job. Otherwise, you might have to consider getting an upgrade before going remote. Additionally, it is important that you understand how to use virtual communication programs like Zoom, so you can connect regularly and effectively with your boss and colleagues.

Over Communicate

Out of all of the tips discussed in the article, this one is the one that most experts agree on. As you begin working remotely, you will notice very quickly that it is harder and more important than ever to connect with your colleagues and managers. It is not only helpful to update your colleagues and bosses more frequently, it is also important to keep up social habits you had before the pandemic. If you always talked to a particular colleague before the weekly meeting, try giving them a call before the same virtual meeting. This way, you’ll be able to maintain your old routine and keep up with your office even when you’re working from home. 
Since the pandemic has drastically changed the way we work, here are some new ways to elevate your workday at home. As discussed in our other article, clinical research is developing a new perspective that generates new opportunities and to change the field. Virtual clinical trials (VCTs) are going to stay in the field, and the technical and self knowledge you gain working during this time will serve you well in future clinical research projects. If you want to learn more about the clinical research profession, please check out our specialized training programs and articles below to learn more about the clinical research job scene.

Learn more Work From Home Tips by Katie Holmes