Clinical Research Associate: A Full Guide on Becoming A CRA
Clinical Research Associate
A Complete Guide on How to Become a Clinical Research Associate
Over 1.9 million students receive a bachelors of science every year. While a few go on to PhD, Masters, and Medical programs; many are ready to start clinical research certification online to start a career in the frontiers of medical research and patient care.
As a new student applying to the science job market, you may only find internships or recognize that even entry-level science jobs requires 1-2 years of experience. More so, you may realize many of these jobs require intense labor in the lab or just did not meet your expectations for your science degree.
This is why a career as a CRA should be considered with clinical research coordinator training. We train over 500 students each month in clinical research coordinator training and clinical research associate training (depending on prior background).
For those who have always wanted a career in medicine or have a gap year before medical school; Clinical Research Training is the next step to getting a head start in your career.
Because the position is unlike actually working in the lab and more of a management role; you get 1-on-1 connections with physicians and medical staff that can lead to a better application for medical school and other medical careers later on.
Best of all; many of these positions accept remote staff (and some allow you to travel 45-75% with full expenses including travel, accommodation, meals, and other per-dime expenses covered).
Clinical Research Training can help you save money while also increasing your salary. CRA’s with our level of training can expect to make between $6,500-$12,000 a month with an estimated promotion rate of 33% a year: an amount that is uncommon in other science-degree careers.
CCRPS is one of the only major US-based ACCRE, ACCME, ANCC, ACPE, and Transcelerate Biopharma accredited CRA certification courses that accepts students with no prior background for certification. T
his is because our course is thorough and created by Senior CRAs who have been in the field for long enough to understand what you need to know to begin working and applying. The course can be completed in as little as 7 days with dedicated full-day study time.
Clinical Research Associate Certification Qualifications
Foreign Doctors Welcome: A Clinical Research Associate or Coordinator plays a vital role in directing and supervising clinical trials conducted by physicians, nurses, and other science professionals. This career path is particularly attractive to many foreign doctors with completed medical degrees (MBBS) who can utilize their expertise in the US healthcare system by pursuing a CRA career instead of taking the USMLE or repeating residency training. For those interested in coordinating aspects, consider the Clinical Research Coordinator course.
Distinct Skillset: Unlike the traditional medical field you may be familiar with after years of schooling, Clinical Research Associate training provides a distinct and valuable skillset. For comprehensive understanding of Good Clinical Practice, see the ICH-GCP course.
Most Extensive Online Course: Our program goes beyond basic introductions, offering a comprehensive curriculum with over 110 modules – the most extensive Clinical Research Associate course available online. This in-depth training ensures you're well-prepared to secure a coveted CRA position.
Superior Coursework: Securing a CRA role is a strategic career move compared to the limitations of many traditional medical positions. While generic courses abound, we've observed that graduates often struggle due to a lack of substantive content. Our Clinical Research Associate course addresses this gap by providing Senior Clinical Research Associate-level training through 110 intensive modules grounded in the latest scientific principles. For those looking to assist in clinical trials, the Clinical Trials Assistant Training may also be of interest.
Diverse Career Opportunities: This high-demand science-based medical field offers diverse opportunities:
Work in the Private Sector: Pursue a CRA career with renowned pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer. Enhance your skills with the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification.
Academic Opportunities: Work in the academic sphere at medical schools. Those aiming for higher responsibilities may consider the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification.
Unmatched Flexibility and Knowledge: In addition to our exceptional course content, we boast the largest number of clinical research courses available online, providing you with unmatched flexibility and knowledge. For those interested in safety monitoring of drugs, the Pharmacovigilance Certification and Medical Monitor Certification can enhance your capabilities in these critical areas.
Why Take A CRA Certification Course
The role of the clinical research associate is to ensure that medical devices, new treatments and new drugs are approved for patients' use.
This field is taken as a certificate program course in many schools. For example, you may find associate degree programs. These programs can be completed in two years and can be offered through both the online and the hybrid formats. Hybrid formats combine both online and on-campus courses together.
If you opt for a fully online program, you can still get an immersive education. Different platforms like emails and discussion boards are used to ensure and promote interaction between the students as well as the lecturers.
Online learning platforms are used to upload the syllabus, course materials, lectures and assignments. Some online programs include field work as part of their requirements, in order for students to gain first hand experience working with clinical trials and patients. Depending on the school, they may have a list of approved clinical research institutes and other facilities. Otherwise, you will have to find a facility for yourself and get the school's approval.
These certificate programs are generally designed for professionals that are already in the medical fields (like medical assistants or nurses) and are interested in moving to the field of clinical research.
They may therefore ask for a copy of your CV or resumé or they may ask for a letter from your employers to verify that you have the needed medical experience. Some programs may require just an undergraduate degree in a medical science or life science related field.
Clinical research associates are trained to assist clinical researchers and investigators in the coordination, administration and management of clinical trials.
During this training, different courses will be taught revolving around subjects like safety procedures, subject recruitment, regulatory requirements, drug development, accountability, trial management, medical terminology etc.
The importance of the role of the clinical research associate means that companies that conduct clinical trials are usually very selective. The need to comply with strict regulations often inform their decision when making a choice of their clinical research associate. It is therefore very difficult to get a job as a clinical research associate without previous experience in clinical trials.
Many companies require around at least two years experience in clinical monitoring as a clinical project assistant or clinical trial administrator before considering applicants for this important role.
In applying for the post of a clinical research associate, ensure that you read the job description and indicate or highlights the relevant experience on your curriculum vitae. Your cover letter should be specific to the company you're applying to.
Do not use a one-for-all cover letter. Personalize your cover letter to each company and highlight the skills that fit the specific requirements of the role. Not all companies advertise their vacancies, so you can try to find out about other unadvertised vacancies, you might increase your chances.
Further certification can enhance your resume such as the ACCRE accredited CRA program which contains 110 learning modules for Clinical Research Associate Training and Placement
The Best CRA Certification Course For Entry-Levels
There is a huge shortage of well-trained CRAs, but many companies are reluctant to hire untrained entry-level clinical monitors because of patient and trial safety. Because of this, even the beginner entry-level jobs require certification or training.
Our program is considered one of the top clinical research graduate programs online. Most courses provide very light training that may look good because of the company names, but alone is not sufficient to pass the interview rounds a company conducts.
Because our modules are prepared help even Senior Clinical Research Associates, we find more of our students with no background quickly passing their interview rounds.
CCRPS Course covers double to triple the amount of course content than other courses. While many courses are simply 5-20 simple interactive modules, our course covers 140 dense modules in thorough detail.
After each session, students can ask their questions privately with the course instructor, all of whom have 15+ years of CRA experience.
Currently, 82% of our students are hired within the first month of taking the course. Students with limited background or those looking to gain extra experience are offered a remote internship of up to 6 months during the time they are interviewing.
This advantage allows many students with limited experience to get hired with a higher paying job than previously offered.
While a majority of our students are physicians, a majority of the CRA workforce are Science Grads and Nurses. nonetheless, we train all students at a Senior CRA level regardless of background because clinical research monitoring is vastly different from any lab or science course you may have taken.
Clinical research associates are given the protocol of a study including all medical protocol that must be followed but because they do not diagnose or treat. Medical knowledge is supplemental but not sufficient in this career path.
This is the main reason why our Clinical Research Training includes all possible scenarios you may face at the protocol and guideline level in your future company.
How To Get Experience For Clinical Research Associate Jobs
CCRPS, like other educational institutes, is only associated with educating and certifying clinical research professionals so we do not provide job placement. We want to make sure you apply with your best foot forward. Below are links we readily refer to graduates who are looking for job support. Having a great CV and cover letter are essential to applying for jobs. Recruiters are paid by the company which hires you and thus are free for searching employees. Be realistic but also be driven. Make sure you get continue reaching out until you get a true rejection from any job you apply to as they may never have seen your application if you received no response.
Clinical Research Job Advising: Kunal at ClinicalTrialPodcast
Free Resume Review: TopCV TopCV provides a free review and feedback for your current resume.
Resume Distribution: ResumeRabbit Resume rabbit distributes your resume to 60 job posting sites.
Clinical Research Recruiters: I-Recruit I-Recruit distributes your resume to clinical research recruiters.
Clinical Research Job Bulletin: Indeed Indeed usually provides the most uptodate job bulletin for clinical research jobs
Always use a cover letter specific for the company and job when applying if you are not using a recruiter.
The ICH-GCP in Clinical Research
Regardless of the type of clinical research or function of an IP being tested, it is important that clinical research should meet two critical criteria:
The clinical research process should respect the rights, freedom and dignity of tested patients (human participants).
Data from the clinical research process should be accurately collected, safely stored, rigorously scrutinized and correctly interpreted.
One way to ensure that these requirements are met is to follow a set of internationally recognized and accepted standards for clinical research.
Most countries across the world today follow ICH-GCP, that is, International Committee for Harmonization of Good Clinical Practice guidelines in conducting clinical research on human participants7.
The ICH-GCP outlines procedures and precautions that are essential in order to protect the safety and wellbeing of human research participants during clinical research, and to ensure the integrity of data from clinical research studies.
In the USA, clinical studies are required to comply with the FDA Guidance for Good Clinical Practice, outlined in a document titled ‘E6(R2) Good Clinical Practice: Integrated Addendum to E6(R1)’8.
Regardless of the type of clinical research or function of an IP being tested, it is important that clinical research should meet two critical criteria:
The clinical research process should respect the rights, freedom and dignity of tested patients (human participants).
Data from the clinical research process should be accurately collected, safely stored, rigorously scrutinized and correctly interpreted.
One way to ensure that these requirements are met is to follow a set of internationally recognized and accepted standards for clinical research.
Most countries across the world today follow ICH-GCP, that is, International Committee for Harmonization of Good Clinical Practice guidelines in conducting clinical research on human participants7.
The ICH-GCP outlines procedures and precautions that are essential in order to protect the safety and wellbeing of human research participants during clinical research, and to ensure the integrity of data from clinical research studies.
In the USA, clinical studies are required to comply with the FDA Guidance for Good Clinical Practice, outlined in a document titled ‘E6(R2) Good Clinical Practice: Integrated Addendum to E6(R1)’8.z
Qualifications and Qualities of a CRA
According to the International Accrediting Organization for Clinical Research (IAOCR), candidates for CRA positions usually hold either a biological science degree, or one in medicine or nursing10.
The New Scientist recommends that aspiring CRAs should possess a good working knowledge of one or more of the following subjects – anatomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, immunology, microbiology, pharmacology, physiology or toxicology11.
In addition to a background in medical or life sciences, a CRA is required to have a good grasp of data management, including Electronic Data Capture (EDC), data analytics and reporting12.
Sketching the CRA work profile, the authors Diane St. Germain and Marjorie Good state that CRAs are the ones who scrutinize clinical study data most closely from start to finish—as a result, they are often the first to notice critical patterns and interesting trends, and to report these to the research team as well as to the CRO13.
Equally if not more importantly, a CRA must possess a high level of emotional and interpersonal savvy. This is a crucial area, since a CRA’s success hinges upon his/her ability to elicit the best from team members, in terms of both performance and probity.
Core Competency Framework for CRAs
To illustrate, the ACRP’s ‘Core Competency
Framework for Clinical Study Monitoring’
requires that a CRA should be able to identify
and correct compliance violations at a study
site. The CRA must not only bring such
violations to the attention of site staff, s/he
must induce them to take corrective action,
as well as reporting the matter and even
escalating it, where necessary14.
The table below summarizes the ideal
competencies of a CRA, and provides
insights on how each ability contributes to
the CRA’s performance.
CRA Career Path
In the past, CRA positions were often filled by individuals with medical or nursing backgrounds, with little thought given to their lack of research training15. As awareness grew about the importance of research experience for a CRA, employers began preferring those with years of experience in clinical research settings, such as Clinical Trials Assistants (CTAs) and Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs)16.
However, in recent years, the focus has shifted once again from a tenure-based mindset to a skills-based evaluation17. In part, this change has been brought about by the growth in professional courses and training programs in the field.
For instance, many leading US Universities today offer master’s programs in clinical research18. In addition, there are some widely recognized certification programs for clinical research associates, such as those offered by the ACRP19 and the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) 20.
Note: You must already be working as a CRA to qualify for the ACRP and SOCRA certification programs.
A Toe in the Door: CRA Certification for a Non-CRA
By this point, you might be wondering, “I have no research experience… I’ve never worked as a Clinical Trials Assistant (CTA) or as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC). Nor do I have a degree in Clinical Research. Can I still become a CRA?”
The simple answer is, yes, you can.
You might be a life sciences graduate looking for a lucrative career in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors. Or, you’re excited by a career in research, but unsure whether the drudgery of a Ph.D. is your thing.
Maybe you’re just looking for a job that represents a great option for someone with your combo of science background plus detail-orientedness.
Whichever of these descriptions best applies to you, a career as a Clinical Research Associate could be exactly right for you.
With the right training, you can be recruited directly to a Clinical Research Associate position, even without a background in clinical research.
So, what kind of training will help me break through the ‘experience’ barrier and land a job as a CRA?
As you’ve already gathered from the table, the skill-set required to be a successful CRA is pretty extensive.
Aside from an in-depth knowledge of scientific and medical concepts and principles, a CRA must have a sound grasp of medical research regulatory requirements, a penchant for being thorough and systematic, as well as a knack for coordinating and managing people with diverse skills, roles and backgrounds.
To our knowledge, CCRPC’s ‘Advanced Clinical Research Associate Certification’ (ACRAC) is one of a kind: The ACRAC is the only multi-accredited* certification program in the US that offers the kind of exhaustive as well as intensive training that equips candidates from a non-clinical background with the abilities and competencies that make a good CRA.
Best of all? The ACRAC is open to fresh graduates holding a B.S. degree in any of the life sciences, with no requirement for prior exposure or experience in clinical research.
*The ACRAC program offered by CCRPC is accredited to ACCRE (Accreditation Council for Clinical Research & Education), ACCME (Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education), ACPE (Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education), ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), as well as Transcelerate Biopharma.
Training to be a CRA through CCRPS ACRAC
The ACRAC program includes over 100 course modules that cover all the important knowledge domains and skill-sets required by a CRA.
Designed for a total study time of approximately 250 hours, this training program can be completed at your own pace, or, for those able to dedicate the whole day to study, in as little as two to three weeks.
Starting with a broad overview of clinical research jargon and terminology, the course walks students through the principles of Good Clinical Practice, familiarizing you with the relevant sections of the ICH-GCP and the FDA’s E6(R2).
The program places particular emphasis on ethical practices in research with vulnerable populations.
Students going through the ACRAC are trained in all major aspects of designing a Clinical Trial Protocol in keeping with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
They additionally learn the steps involved in the IRB/IEC approvals process and how to prepare required documents.
Finally, students become aware of the importance of pharmacovigilance and the regulatory process for new drug testing.
A major chunk of the ACRAC certification centers around equipping the CRA for day-to-day responsibilities, such as different types of site visits – preliminary (Site Qualification), preparatory (Site Initiation) and progress monitoring visits (Routine Monitoring).
Crucially, the ACRAC covers essential documentation such as the Case Report Form and Trial Master File, as well as electronic data capture (EDC) and remote monitoring systems.
A vital component of the training program involves empowering students to tackle challenging situations.
For a CRA, these include identifying protocol deviations and violations, and recognizing as well as reporting research fraud and ethical misconduct.
In addition to its comprehensive coverage, the ACRAC certification offers the great advantage of including 17.5 CME credits – that is, course credits that count towards ‘Continuing Medical Education’.
These credits can be used by individuals desiring to further their education and/or careers in healthcare-related fields, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy and research.
Get ahead in clinical research with advanced accredited online CRA certification for $450. Demo our on-demand course below.
Clinical Research Associate Certification
Advanced Clinical Research Associate Certification (ACRAC)
Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter orients you to the concept of Continuing Medical Education (CME) and outlines how the CCRPS CRA program contents meets AMA requirements for CME. Given that, across the US, physician practitioners are required to complete between 20 and 50 hours of CME credits yearly, the ACCME-accredited CCRPS CRA course can be used not only to build knowledge and skills in the field of clinical trial management, but also to further a successful medical career. Additionally, the introductory chapter introduces you to the clinical terminology and abbreviations commonly encountered in clinical research, for example, Investigational Product (IP), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Institutional Review Board (IRB) and so on.
Chapter 2: Roles and Relationships in Clinical Trials
The unit presents the foundational background to beginning and building a career as a clinical research associate (CRA). As you know, a CRA plays a critical role in setting up as well as monitoring the clinical trials process for an investigational product or IP – a medical drug or device under development. In this unit, you will learn how a CRA interacts with other stakeholders, including the Clinical Research Organization (CRO) or Sponsor of the clinical trials, the Principal Investigator (PI) as well as other research site staff, the trials monitoring team including the Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC),other CRAs and the Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), as well as the research ethics committee (Institutional Review Board or IRB).
Chapter 3: Sponsor and Investigator Roles
In this unit, you will gain insight into the ICH-GCP guidelines, particularly addendum E6, sections 2 through 5, which outline procedures and precautions essential for protecting the safety and wellbeing of human research participants during clinical research. These include guidelines for obtaining informed consent from human subjects, maintenance of trial records, reporting of compliance, safety and research progress, as well as procedures for suspension or termination of the trials process. The chapter familiarizes you with the critical importance of monitoring for Adverse Events (AEs), including types of AEs and regulations for documentation and reporting.
Chapter 4: Clinical Trial Design
In this chapter, you will acquire insight into the different phases of the clinical trials process, from the pre-clinical phase through Phases 0 to 4 of clinical testing. The unit will familiarize you with important concepts of clinical trials, such as the structure and goals of each phase of clinical trials, approaches to dosing, toxicology of pharmaceutical products, in vitro and in vivo testing, dose escalation and so on. Finally, the chapter reviews the FDA’s drug approval process.
Chapter 5: ICH-GCP – Overview
The chapter dives deep into GCP, including a review of the history of medical research leading up to the ICH-GCP. The unit covers all four QSEM categories of the guidelines for ensuring Quality, Safety and Efficacy of the IP, as well as Multidisciplinary guidelines (mainly pertaining to documentation and electronic data safety standards). In addition, the chapter includes an overview of MedDRA software that provides a standardized system of terminology and notation for documenting clinical research, as well as principles of budgeting for clinical trials.
Chapter 6: Ethical Research in Vulnerable Populations
The unit provides a detailed walk-through of the regulations and compliance requirements for conducting clinical trials with human subjects who meet the definition of a ‘vulnerable population’, including pregnant women and fetuses, children, mentally incapacitated individuals (those with cognitive functioning impaired by neurolopsychological conditions or chronic substance abuse), as well as prisoners. You will acquire familiarity with the challenges of research in such populations, including the requirement for parental consent, fair but not excessive incentive, justifiable deception or incomplete disclosure, coercive practices and so forth.
Chapter 7: Adverse Events
Through this module, you will gain a bird’s eye view of the protocol for documenting, reporting and responding to AEs or adverse events during the clinical trials process. The unit covers concepts such as expectedness, severity and seriousness of AEs, Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) as a sub-category of AEs, Investigational New Drug or IND reports, causality analysis for AEs and so on. In addition, the chapter reviews the responsibilities of both research sponsors as well as IRBs in sharing AE information with subjects.
Chapter 8: Clinical Trial Protocol
The chapter provides an in-depth tutorial on the structure and elements of a CTP or clinical trial protocol, as well as guidelines on writing a CTP. Important concepts reviewed include study Risk Benefit Analysis (RBA), study sample statistics (sample size, statistical power, plan for data analysis), risk management and study administration. Additionally, the module covers concepts central to study sample selection, addressing inclusion and exclusion criteria, especially safety and ethics considerations in sampling.
Chapter 9: Protocol Deviations and Violations
Through this unit, you will gain familiarity with the many potential causes of protocol deviations and violations, learning to distinguish between minor (deviations) and major departures or violations of protocol. Content provides understanding of the most commonly occurring violations, including both minor (off-schedule subject assessments, subjects’ use of prohibited drugs, and so on) as well as major violations (failure to obtain informed consent, failure to report AEs and so forth). Further, the chapter reviews principles for reporting protocol deviations, IRB approval for planned deviations and related concepts.
Chapter 10: IRB and DSMB
This chapter briefly reviews the history of IRBs and examines the principles guiding IRB decision-making. In addition, the unit discusses recent developments in compliance, including sIRB (single IRB) and SmartIRB for institutions that are part of the CTSA (Clinical and Translational Science Awards). The bulk of this module dives into the categories of IRB review, including full board and expedited review, examining criteria for review exemption such as educational or purely behavioral research, as well as studies collecting identifiable data, surveys and interviews.
Chapter 11: Review Questions
The module provides a self-assessment tool by including questions that review the content covered in previous chapters. The set of 71 questions examines all aspects of ICH-GCP previously discussed.
Chapter 12: Site Monitoring Visits
In this module, an overview is provided of the different types of site monitoring visits, including site selection or qualification visit, study initiation visit, routine or progress monitoring visit, as well as study termination or close-out visit. Important concepts discussed include pre-qualification preparations and site feasibility assessment as well as study monitoring criteria (data omission, incorrect entries, inaccurate calculations, documentation of corrections and so on). For each type of site monitoring visit, the chapter reviews relevant documentation.
Chapter 13: Site Qualification Visit (SQV)
The chapter gives an in-depth understanding of the stages and steps involved in selecting a study site. Elements reviewed within the module include the process of investigator selection and criteria for site evaluation (the four P’s: Patient, Protocol, Performance, Profit). Importantly, the module reviews the most common errors in feasibility assessment, including overestimation of sample availability at site, selection of site staff with low motivation, poor-performing sites owing to high competition for personnel and resources (for example, owing to multiple studies running on a single site), and so on.
Chapter 14: Site Initiation Visit (SIV)
The module dives into the details of an SIV or site initiation visit. You will review the procedure for pre-SIV preparation, including filing for IRB and other necessary approvals, permits and licenses. Additionally, the chapter examines elements of the SIV agenda, mainly orientation and training of site staff, creation of important study-related documents such as the Trial Master File (TMF) and post-SIV filing of compliance documents such as FDA form 1572 and Financial Disclosure Form (FDF) for relevant site personnel.
Chapter 15: Routine Monitoring Visit (RMV)
In this unit, the elements of a routine or periodic monitoring visit are discussed in detail. You will become familiar with the agenda of an RMV, which prioritizes receiving updates on AEs from site staff (incidence, documentation, seriousness and so on), as well as oversight of the overall progress of trials. The chapter covers different approaches to site monitoring, contrasting traditional (full-scale) monitoring with risk-based monitoring (RBM), as well as comparing on-site monitoring with remote monitoring. A crucial concept addressed by the unit is Source Data Verification (SDV), which is central to obtaining meaningful, high-quality data from clinical trials.
Chapter 16: Site Close-Out Visit (SCOV)
The module gives you a comprehensive overview of the protocol and procedures involved in terminating or closing out a trial site. Aspects covered in the chapter include pre-SCOV preparations such as IRB notification and schedule coordination among site staff (PI, other investigators, medical staff) and monitoring team (CRC, CRAs and so on), agenda for an SCOV – drug inventory management, database verification and lockdown, subject intimation and completion of all subject-related documents, staff-related documentation as well as other administrative tasks including close-out report compilation.
Chapter 17: Tools for Monitoring Visits
This unit outlines a host of tips and tools that can help a CRA in successfully tackling the complex process of monitoring clinical trials. The chapter lists numerous physical accessories you can use for effective monitoring, including scheduling and calculation aids, ready reckoners for drug information and medical terminology, as well as document templates to speed up the process of obtaining trial updates while also serving as checklists for the site visit agenda. Additionally, the unit highlights helpful strategies that a CRA can use to ensure that site visits go smoothly, from travel advice to team-building suggestions.
Chapter 18: Audit and Inspections
The module deals with one of the most crucial and often most feared aspects of a CRA’s career – audits and inspections by the CRO (sponsor), FDA or other regulatory authority. Starting from the basic distinction between an audit and an inspection, the chapter covers in detail the protocols for both audits and inspections. Crucially, the chapter will enable you to grasp the difference between a routine audit/ inspection and a ‘for-cause’ audit/ inspection. Further, it lays out the sequence of an FDA inspection in full (including a detailed walk-through of the FDA BIMO or Biomedical Research Monitoring Program inspection), and provides important guidelines on the do’s and dont’s for CRAs during an audit/ inspection, such as the critical ‘3 to 5 minute rule’. You will acquire familiarity with important audit and inspection-related documents such as FDA Form 482 (Notice of Inspection) and Form 483 (Notice of Observation) as well as the Establishment Inspection Report (EIR) prepared by the auditor/ inspector. Finally, you will gain insight into the classes of observations provided in an EIR, including NAI (no action indicated), VAI (voluntary action indicated) and OAI (official action indicated)—the last is commonly termed an ‘FDA warning letter’.
Chapter 19: Review Questions
The unit contains a self-assessment tool comprising 65 questions that review the content covered in previous chapters, as well as a 15-item quiz. Questions and quiz examine all aspects of clinical trial quality monitoring, including monitoring visits, tools as well as audits and inspections.
Chapter 20: SDV and Informed Consent
In this chapter, the ICH-GCP section 4.8 guidelines on obtaining informed consent from subjects are discussed in detail, highlighting the need for using non-technical language, transparent delineation of risks, consent without undue influence, obtaining consent (and assent) from minors and their Legally Acceptable Representatives (LARs), as well as consent from non-English speakers and sedated subjects. The chapter additionally covers important aspects of Source Data Verification (SDV) with respect to electronic as well as paper-based medical records, and highlights the central goal of SDV, which is to conform to ICH-GCP requirements that subject trial data (as recorded in Case Report Forms or CRFs) must correspond to source data (previous medical records).
Chapter 21: Case Report Form
The module provides an in-depth tutorial on the structure and elements of a Case Report Form or CRF, including the different forms for PI verification, subject enrollment, eligibility and randomization, medical history, physical examination and laboratory data, compliance, adverse events and so on. In addition, the chapter outlines important data notation rules, such as the use of accepted acronyms (‘ND’ for missing data and ‘UNK’ for unknown information, MM-DD-YY format, time-stamp data and so forth), as well as guidelines for the design of CRFs (such as consistency of notation, avoidance of data fields that can be computed and of duplicate data fields and so on).
Chapter 22: Quality Control and Safety
Within this unit, you will learn the central concepts of Quality Control (QC) in the context of clinical trials, including definitions of QC and its relationship with the complementary process of Quality Assurance (QA), the use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in QC, need for a Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) plan and so on. Additionally, the module examines the QA process, focusing on the central role of RBM or risk-based monitoring in present-day QA as well as providing guidelines on Quality Metrics (QMs) for evaluating the trials process. The chapter also reviews ICH-GCP guidelines on subject safety, underlining risk-benefit assessment, stoppage rules (for instance, in case of SAEs) and reporting responsibilities. Finally, it introduces the FDA’s Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) as a platform that provides training and support for personnel involved in clinical trials.
Chapter 23: Technology in Trials
In this chapter, an in-depth tutorial is provided of the systems used in modern clinical trials for Electronic Data Capture (EDC) and database management. Systems such as Interactive Response Technologies (IRTs) including IVRS and IWRS (Interactive Voice and Web Response Systems, respectively) as well as RTSM systems for Randomization and Trial Supply Management are examined. The unit reviews the benefits of standardized data management and data sharing, approaches to database management and the concept of an Independent Data Monitoring Committee (IDMC). Critical elements of data integrity, such as proper anonymisation and coding, completeness of data, data safety precautions and logging of site visits and other progress reports are highlighted. The unit further examines the essential features of a good Clinical Data Management (CDM) system that complies with FDA CFR Title 21 and HIPAA regulations, such as setting access privileges, tracking changes and updates, data security and locking, flagging and reconciliation of AEs and so forth. Finally, the chapter looks at CTMSs (Clinical Trial Management Systems) in depth, covering the aspects that allow management of day-to-day trials in multi-site studies.
Chapter 24: Modernized Monitoring (Remote, Risk-based, Centralized)
This chapter offers a detailed walk-through of modern, remote monitoring of clinical trials, which evolved into a full-fledged system in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Important concepts discussed include the critical site initiation process, Electronic Source Data Verification (ESDV) and FDA regulatory guidance for remote monitoring of clinical trials. In this module, you will learn how FDA’s ALCOA (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original and Accurate) criteria for data quality have been adapted to remote monitoring. Further, the unit discusses how HIPAA compliance in remote monitoring is achieved by using limited data sets (wherein sensitive individual information is concealed through anonymous subject codes) regulated by data use agreements. Finally, the unit examines how risk-based monitoring approaches have allowed centralized monitoring to evolve into a cost-effective and safe method for clinical trial monitoring.
Chapter 25: Pharmacovigilance and Regulatory Affairs
Through this unit, you will gain insight into the process and rationale behind pharmacovigilance (PV) and its central role in the clinical trials process. The chapter reviews the statistics on AEs, distinguishes between Type A and Type B AEs, and profiles seriousness of ADRs or Adverse Drug Reactions as well as the iGuard Drug Risk Rating System. Importantly, the unit covers ADR causality assessment in detail, including both severity and probability assessment. An important element of PV addressed in this module is the Individual Case Safety Report (ICSR), its structure, content and role in trial monitoring. Other concepts discussed include types of PV inspections (routine vs. ‘for cause’), PSURs or Periodic Safety Update Reports and study criteria for instituting DSMBs (Data Safety Management Boards). Finally, the module also reviews the domain of Regulatory Affairs (RA) as a function of PV, outlining roles and responsibilities of RA personnel as well as the importance of RA in streamlining the process of drug development by ensuring compliance throughout manufacturing, clinical trials, marketing and advertising.
Chapter 26: Investigational Product
In this chapter, an in-depth review is provided of the protocol for receiving, storing and dispensing the IP or investigational product. At every stage, guidelines lay down strategies for ensuring verifiability, accountability and safety of both study subjects and staff. Thus, IP handling precautions include the need for logging date of manufacture, temperature throughout transit, as well as batch number and individual unit numbers (such as bottle or tube identifiers) carefully and accurately, as well as recording shipping details and filing shipping receipts. Additionally, the unit addresses the need for IP dispensing precautions, such as limiting dispensation to authorized personnel only, as well as maintaining individual subject IP logs.
Chapter 27: Local and Central Labs
The module profiles the evolution of lab testing in clinical trials, from error-prone localized laboratory testing to centralized testing that allows homogeneity of testing procedures and measurements, thus minimizing errors and improving outcomes. The chapter reviews standards for clinical trial laboratories as per the GLCP (Good Clinical Laboratory Practice) and CLIA norms (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments), as well as providing guidelines for lab audits, including fire safety, protective gear, staff training and so forth.
Chapter 28: Review Questions
The unit contains a self-assessment tool comprising 65 questions that review the content covered in previous chapters, as well as a 15-item quiz. Questions and quiz examine all aspects of trial documentation (SDV, CRF, ICSR), quality control, pharmacovigilance, as well as IP and lab guidelines.
Chapter 29: Regulatory Documents in Clinical Trials
The chapter reviews essential documentation to be created and maintained throughout the course of the clinical trials, including the Trial Master File (TMF), FDA forms 1571, 1572, 3674, 3454/3455 and CFR Title 21 Form 312, besides ethics approval documents such as the IRB-approved protocol, informed consent form, subject education and study advertising materials. You will acquire in-depth familiarity with each of these forms, and learn the importance of maintaining and updating records, for example by incorporating IRB revisions and amendments, periodic renewals of permissions and licenses and copies of submitted reports. In addition, the unit summarizes the need for filing documents outlining study- and site-specific procedures, including SOP (Standard Operating Procedure), MOP (Manual of Procedures), Investigator Brochure (IB), Delegation of Authority Log (DOAL), site staff CVs, SAE notifications, logs of subject screening and enrollment, IP storage (temperature, humidity, etc.) and all relevant study parameters.
Chapter 30: CFR Title 21 Part 11 – Electronic Signatures
This unit gives you an overview of Title 21 of the FDA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), including Chapter 1 sections on informed consent (Section 50), IRB approval (Section 56) and so on, Series on food (100), pharmaceuticals (200 and 300) and so on, as well as FDA Drug Schedules. The major part of the module focuses on Part 11 which deals with Electronic Records and Electronic Signatures (ERES), laying down the criteria for determining safety and reliability (trustworthiness) of electronic data and signatures.
Chapter 31: New Drug Application
Through this module, you will gain knowledge of the FDA process for evaluating a drug under development, and the role of a CRA in streamlining this process. An important distinction covered here is the difference between an IND (Investigational New Drug) and an NDA (New Drug Application). The chapter discusses in-depth the criteria used in evaluating an IND, including toxicology and pharmacokinetics data, as well as requirements for different drug classes (oncology vs. non-oncology). Additionally, the unit covers FDA requirements for AE reporting, including assessment of seriousness, expectedness and format for expedited reporting of life-threatening SARs, as well as safety reporting requirements for investigators.
Chapter 32: Trial Master File
The unit provides a detailed breakdown of the organization of a TMF or Trial Master File, listing the various binders that should be included within the TMF, as well as their contents. Thus, the TMF should contain binders pertaining to the study protocol and IRB, investigator qualifications, FDA forms and correspondence, FDFs or Financial Disclosure Forms, communications with the CRO, and other relevant trial aspects. A helpful templatic guide to creating a TMF is also provided in this chapter, as well as a self-assessment quiz of 10 items on important sections of a TMF.
Chapter 33: Disclosures and Payments for PI, Site, Patients
In this chapter, FDA guidelines regulating financial disclosure are discussed in-depth, covering the definition of ‘conflict of interest’ and the stipulations of Title 21 Section 54 on disclosure requirements. The unit helpfully contrasts FDA requirements with Canadian and UK/EU policies. You will study real life case examples of conflict of interest, as well as lawsuits pertaining to financial disclosure disputes to help gain a better understanding of the potential problems arising from failure to disclose financial interests in clinical trials. Another important dimension covered in the module is the regulation of payments to PIs and other investigators as well as patient payments, which must comply with CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services) policy on ‘fair market value’ as well as the Federal ‘Anti-Kickback Statute’. The unit contains guidelines on clinical trial budgeting and subject payments. Finally, the chapter reviews IRB guidelines on advertising to recruit human participants for clinical trials, including stipulations against misleading and coercive language, as well as excessive incentives.
Chapter 34: Patient Recruitment, Retention and Compliance
The unit provides an overview of the process of patient (subject) recruitment in clinical trials, from population research to identify motives for participation, to media support for building up public awareness and interest, to community and physician outreach for referrals and enrollment. Additionally, the chapter identifies common barriers to meeting recruitment goals and outlines strategies for maximizing recruitment, such as relaxing overly stringent criteria, offering reasonable incentives such as travel reimbursement and highlighting benefits of participation. Similarly, the unit covers common causes of patient drop-out as well as strategies for minimizing drop-outs, such as improving patient experience (increased attention and listening to patients, flexible scheduling of visits to suit patients’ convenience and so on). Finally, the unit discusses novel strategies to increase patient retention and improve compliance in clinical trials; these techniques harness technology to yield better outcomes, for example, simplifying form completion through digitized forms with auto-fill features, gamifying elements of compliance reporting, and so forth.
Chapter 35: Misconduct and Fraud
This module discusses the various motives for committing scientific fraud and the fallout of fraudulent practices in clinical trials. A scale for classifying errors in clinical trial data is presented, with ‘honest, isolated mistake’ at one end of the spectrum and ‘deliberate data falsification with malicious intent’ at the other. Types of clinical data that may be falsified, methods used in falsification (fabrication, substitution, omission), as well as scenarios in clinical trials where falsification may be occurring are presented. Through this chapter, you will gain familiarity with the signs to watch out for during the actual clinical trials process.
Chapter 36: Review Questions
The unit contains a self-assessment tool comprising 65 questions that review the content covered in previous chapters, including questions on all aspects of regulatory documents, site documents (TMF and contents), trial budgeting and payments, patient recruitment and scientific fraud.
Chapter 37: Site Visit Templates
This module contains a set of templates that you can use for documenting the details of site monitoring as a CRA, either in their current form, or in a form adapted to the needs of your own study. The templates included in this unit include:
Site Qualification Visit (SQV) – checklist for preparations, questionnaire for assessing the site prior to the actual visit, assessment form and follow-up letter
Site Initiation Visit (SIV) – agenda for visit, confirmation letter to request PI attendance during SIV, report following SIV
Routine Monitoring Visit (RMV) – confirmation letter to request PI attendance, report following RMV, follow-up letter
Site Close-Out Visit (SCOV) – confirmation letter to request PI attendance, agenda for SCOV, report following SCOV, follow-up letter
CRA transition letter – document notifying site PI of appointment of new monitor (yourself as CRA)
Chapter 38: Interviewing and Career
In this unit, you will find suggestions and recommendations for making a positive impact in interviews for CRA positions, as well as tips and strategies for making rapid progress in a clinical research career.
Chapter 39: Final Examination
This module comprises a comprehensive 51-item, self-paced quiz to assess your competency in the skills and knowledge required for a Clinical Research Associate position.
References
https://www.beroeinc.com/category-intelligence/clinical-research-organizations-market/
https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/dmid-investigational-product
Dixon JR. 1999. The international conference on harmonization good clinical practice guideline. Quality Assurance. 6(2): 65-74. DOI: 10.1080/105294199277860
https://jobs.newscientist.com/en-au/article/a-career-in-clinical-research/
St. Germain DC, Good MJ. 2017. Data management in clinical trials. In: Gallin JI, Ognibene FP, Lee Johnson L, editors. Principles and practice of clinical research. San Diego: Academic Press. p. 531-545. ISBN 978-0-12-849905-4
https://www.proclinical.com/blogs/2021-9/how-to-get-a-job-as-a-clinical-research-associate-cra
https://acrpnet.org/2018/06/11/5-clinical-research-trends-emerge-at-acrp-2018/
https://www.collegechoice.net/sciences/clinical-research/best-masters-degrees/
Clinical Research Associates and Monitors | Latest FDA Guidelines 2024
Clinical Research Associates and Monitors | Latest FDA Guidelines 2024
Here are some resources to help CRAs and Monitors navigate the ever-changing regulatory landscape:
FDA Website: The FDA website is a treasure trove of information, including the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21, which outlines good clinical practice (GCP) regulations.
FDA Guidance Documents: The FDA publishes guidance documents that provide specific recommendations on various aspects of clinical trials. Regularly checking for updates is recommended.
Industry Associations: Professional organizations like the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) offer educational resources, conferences, and workshops to help CRAs and Monitors stay current on regulations.
Clinical Research Coordinator Course: Aspiring CRAs can start with the Clinical Research Coordinator certification, which provides foundational knowledge in clinical trial management.
Pharmacovigilance Certification: For those focused on drug safety, the Pharmacovigilance Certification course is invaluable.
CRA Certification Course: Enhance your expertise and understanding of regulatory requirements by enrolling in the CRA certification course.
ICH-GCP Course: Deepen your knowledge of good clinical practice by taking the ICH-GCP certification course, essential for every monitor involved in clinical trials.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
By staying informed about the latest FDA guidelines, CRAs and Monitors can ensure they are conducting research ethically and efficiently. This not only protects participants but also contributes to the development of safe and effective treatments. Continuous learning is key, and furthering your education through courses such as the Clinical Trials Assistant Training can provide essential skills for new entrants into the field.
Common Clinical Trial Guidelines for Monitors
Independent Monitoring: One important guideline is that the monitor must be independent from both the sponsor and investigator. The monitor should have no interest in or influence on the study's outcome, and must have complete access to any documents or records related to conducting the trial.
Compliance with GCP: Additionally, monitors must act in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines established by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). GCP outlines procedures for clinical trials involving human subjects so that ethical practices can be maintained throughout a study. It covers many topics including informed consent, protocol review, quality assurance/monitoring, investigator qualification requirements, patient safety procedures, and data verification methods.
Advanced Certifications for Monitors: For those looking to advance their careers, consider the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification and the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification. These courses provide in-depth training for high-level roles in clinical research, ensuring you are well-equipped to oversee complex studies.
Clinical research monitors are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants in clinical trials and the accuracy of data collected. In 2023, there have been several updates to guidelines for clinical research monitors that they should be aware of.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released Clinical Trials Guidance Documents that provide advice on the conduct of clinical trials, good clinical practice, and human subject protection. These documents outline the standards that must be met in order to ensure a safe and ethical trial environment.
Clinical research associates (CRAs) play a key role in medical research, ensuring that clinical trials are conducted according to the highest standards of quality, safety and ethics. In light of this importance, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently released new guidelines for CRAs conducting clinical trials. These guidelines provide an important framework to ensure that all research is conducted responsibly and ethically while protecting participants’ rights and safety. The FDA’s new guidelines focus on three main areas: data security, participant monitoring protocol, and communication with sponsors.
First, the FDA has established stringent data security measures to protect trial participants’ information during all stages of the trial process. This includes measures such as encryption of sensitive data, physical access control systems for secure areas where information is stored or processed, and regular backups of critical data sets to prevent any potential losses due to cyber-attacks or system malfunctions.
Second, the FDA requires that participation by CRAs in clinical trials include appropriate monitoring protocols designed to minimize risks associated with various trial procedures. This may include frequent communication with study sponsors about changes in protocol or patient status; close observation of trial participants; review and approval of all research documents before their use; scheduling regular safety assessments; and maintaining accurate records of all activities associated with each trial phase.
Finally, CRAs must maintain open communication channels with sponsors throughout the duration of a clinical trial in order to promptly report any changes in protocol or patient status that may require further review or approval from sponsors. Additionally, CRAs need to be trained on how to effectively communicate any necessary updates or potential issues related to regulatory compliance so they can ensure effective oversight over the entire course of a study period.
The FDA's new clinical trial guidelines provide an essential reference point for CRAs responsible for conducting medical research safely and ethically while protecting participants' rights and well-being. With these comprehensive guidelines in place, CRAs now have an even greater responsibility than ever when it comes to ensuring the success of health-related studies around the world.
Clinical Investigator Administrative Actions — Disqualification 12/01/2022
Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Developing Drugs and Biological Products for Treatment 10/17/2022
Tissue Agnostic Drug Development in Oncology 10/17/2022
Ethical Considerations for Clinical Investigations of Medical Products Involving Children 09/23/2022
We must always review the Handbook for Good Clinical Research Practice (GCP), which provides guidance on implementation of GCP standards. Additionally, the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) has published Efficacy Guidelines which address design, conduct, safety and reporting of clinical trials.
2024 Good Clinical Practice Guidelines for Clinical Research Associates:
Clinical research associates must stay up-to-date on the latest clinical research regulations, guidance documents, and technology advancements in order to ensure ethical and compliant clinical trial management.
Clinical research associates must establish effective communication with all members of the research team to facilitate the exchange of information regarding study updates, timelines, and protocols.
Clinical research associates are responsible for performing accurate data entry into relevant databases or case report forms (CRFs) as part of their role in documenting results from clinical trials.
Clinical research associates must ensure that informed consent is obtained from all participants in accordance with local regulations and international ethical standards.
Clinical research associates must be knowledgeable about relevant In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) device regulations and requirements for providing evidence of conformity, accuracy, and effectiveness prior to use in a study.
Clinical research associates should create detailed visit plans for each participant in order to maximize the efficiency of visits to investigator sites during a study without compromising data quality or patient safety.
Clinical research associates should conduct regular quality assurance (QA) activities such as source document verification (SDV), query resolution, audit trails, monitoring reports review, reconciliation activities etc., ensuring data accuracy throughout the course of a study period.
During audits or inspections conducted by regulatory authorities or ethics committees, clinical research associates must be prepared to present comprehensive documentation demonstrating compliance with GCP principles and local regulations governing clinical trial conduct.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has also released a Clinical Trials Regulation which harmonises processes for assessment and supervision of clinical trials throughout the EU. This regulation outlines requirements to ensure patient safety during a trial as well as evaluation procedures for new drugs or treatments being tested in a trial setting. Finally, The EQUATOR Network provides study protocols such as SPIRIT and PRISMA-P; diagnostic/prognostic studies such as STARD and TRIPOD; case reports such as CARE; extensions; clinical practice guidelines such as AGREE; all aimed at enhancing quality and transparency in health research publications.
In 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released new clinical trial guidelines that emphasize patient safety. The guidelines mandate that all clinical trials must adhere to a rigorous set of standards in order to ensure patient safety and efficacy.
The new guidelines require research teams to obtain written informed consent from participants prior to initiating any study activity. Abuse of animals is prohibited, and investigators are expected to use only those treatments that have shown potential benefit in animal studies. Additionally, researchers must report any adverse events or reactions during the course of the trial and ensure proper follow up care for affected individuals.
Furthermore, the FDA requires that research teams perform rigorous safety monitoring throughout the course of the trial. Regular data analyses and reviews must be conducted to identify potential risks and unexpected results, which must be reported in real time. Additionally, the FDA requires research teams to implement a system for tracking participant adherence to protocols, including collecting data on missed doses, changes in medication regimens, and other protocol violations.
The FDA also mandates more frequent reporting of results throughout the course of clinical trials. They require researchers to share interim results with stakeholders every six months or whenever significant changes occur in study design or purpose. These reports should include key findings as well as basic information about participant demographics and outcomes associated with each treatment arm.
Finally, the FDA has increased their emphasis on transparency by requiring researchers to disclose detailed information regarding sponsoring organizations and conflicts of interest associated with each study before it begins. This includes information related to payments made by sponsors as well as nonmonetary benefits received by investigators or other individuals associated with the trial.
By 2023, additional provisions will be added to these regulations including enhanced requirements related to diversity among participants; strengthened criteria for evaluating ethical considerations such as protection from harm; expanded definitions related to economic conflict-of-interest disclosure; greater emphasis on appropriate risk/benefit ratios; improved reporting of results utilizing standardized metrics; increased focus on study protocol adherence; enhanced data sharing practices; clear criteria for determining when further review is needed due health concerns; specified mechanisms for measuring patient quality-of-life outcomes; increased accountability through stronger recordkeeping systems; enhanced guidance around informed consent forms; improved methods for monitoring compliance; greater attention paid towards reviewing unpublished manuscripts related to clinical trials; expansion of proposed preventative measures targeting financial misconduct issues such as fraud detection systems; improved oversight mechanisms using Artificial Intelligence technologies such as natural language processing (NLP); and additional efforts aimed at improving public understanding around clinical trials through better communication strategies between sponsors and patients alike.
Stay up to date on clinical trials and your annual ICH GCP certification through one of the most comprehensive courses in the industry.
A Comprehensive Guide to Clinical Research Careers in Switzerland
High-Paying Career with Travel Opportunities Awaits!
The world of clinical research offers a wealth of exciting career paths, and one of the most sought-after roles is the Clinical Research Associate (CRA). CRAs play a critical role in ensuring research is conducted smoothly and ethically, overseeing lab activities and research procedures. Not only does this career offer financial stability, but it can also open doors to travel-based work experiences.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about becoming a CRA in Switzerland in 2024.
How Much Can You Earn?
Switzerland offers competitive salaries for CRAs. According to SalaryExpert: the average CRA salary in Switzerland was CHF 149,000 in 2020. This can vary depending on your experience and location, with a range of CHF 68,700 to CHF 237,000.
Entry-level CRAs (less than 2 years of experience) typically earn around CHF 78,000 annually.
With 2-5 years of experience, salaries jump significantly by 34% to an average of CHF 104,000 per year.
CRAs with 5-10 years of experience see another increase of 48%, reaching an average annual salary of CHF 154,000.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
In Switzerland, a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement to become a CRA. However, a master's degree can significantly boost your qualifications and earning potential. SalaryExpert data shows that CRAs with a master's degree earn an average 93% more than those with only a bachelor's degree.
Standing Out in the Swiss Market
Clinical research is a global field, but job requirements and compensation can differ by region. This guide provides insights specifically for the Swiss market.
Ready to Launch Your CRA Career?
If you're passionate about clinical research and interested in becoming a CRA, explore our CRA training program to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Additionally, check out our courses on Clinical Research Coordinator, Pharmacovigilance Certification, and ICH-GCP to further enhance your qualifications.
Serbia Clinical Research Career Guide
Serbia Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research is a field with a lot of career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Serbia.
1. Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salary
Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salary
Average Monthly Salary (2024) According to SalaryExplorer: As of 2024, the average monthly salary for a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Serbia is 156,000 RSD. Depending on your experience and location, you can expect to earn anything from 81,200 RSD per month to 239,000 RSD per month.
Experience-Based Trends:
Less Than 2 Years of Experience: CRAs with less than 2 years of experience earn an average of 92,200 RSD per month.
2-5 Years of Experience: After 2-5 years of experience, salaries increase significantly by 32%, reaching an average of 124,000 RSD per month.
5-10 Years of Experience: With 5-10 years of experience, CRAs see another substantial increase of 36%, bringing their average salary to 161,000 RSD per month.
2. Education and Earning Power
Minimum Requirement: To work as a CRA in Serbia, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement.
Master’s Degree Advantage: Investing in a master’s degree can significantly boost your qualifications and earning potential. CRAs with a master’s degree earn an average salary 39% higher than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Relevant Courses: If you're considering advancing your career in clinical research, you may find these courses beneficial:
Clinical Research Coordinator: Course Link
CRA: Course Link
ICH-GCP: Course Link
3. Serbia’s Evolving Research Landscape
Recent Salary Changes: In January 2024, Serbia increased the salaries of its top 10% of scientists. While this specific data doesn’t directly apply to CRAs, it reflects the country’s commitment to supporting research professionals.
Requirements to Work:
The minimum education requirement to work as a CRA in Serbia is a bachelor’s degree. However, investing in a master’s degree will increase your qualifications and earning power. SalaryExplorer has shown that CRAs with a master’s degree have a 39% higher average salary than CRAs with just a bachelor’s degree.
Further Learning Opportunities: If you're interested in advancing your knowledge and skills in clinical research, consider exploring our additional courses:
Pharmacovigilance Certification: Course Link
Clinical Trials Assistant Training: Course Link
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: Course Link
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: Course Link
Medical Monitor Certification: Course Link
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in Serbia. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our CRA training program and our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
Norway Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research is a field with a lot of career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Norway.
1. Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salary
Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salary
Average Monthly Salary (2020): As of 2024, the average monthly salary for a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Norway is 684,000 NOK. Depending on your experience and location, you can expect to earn anything from 314,000 NOK per month to 1,090,000 NOK per month.
Experience-Based Trends:
Less Than 2 Years of Experience: CRAs with less than 2 years of experience earn an average of 357,000 NOK per year.
2-5 Years of Experience: After 2-5 years of experience, salaries increase significantly by 34%, reaching an average of 477,000 NOK per year.
5-10 Years of Experience: With 5-10 years of experience, CRAs see another substantial increase of 48%, bringing their average salary to 705,000 NOK per year.
Link Integration: No specific section for course links. However, considering the emphasis on the role of a Clinical Research Associate, we can integrate relevant course links here.
You may want to enhance your skills and qualifications for a successful career as a Clinical Research Associate. Check out our CRA course to gain comprehensive training in this field.
Education and Earning Power
Minimum Requirement: To work as a CRA in Norway, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement.
Master’s Degree Advantage: Investing in a master’s degree can significantly boost your qualifications and earning potential. CRAs with a master’s degree earn an average salary 39% higher than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Link Integration: We can integrate the course links here to emphasize the importance of education and training for career advancement.
Considering the significance of education in enhancing your career prospects, explore our courses such as Clinical Research Coordinator and Pharmacovigilance Certification to broaden your knowledge and skills in clinical research.
Conclusion
A clinical research career in Norway offers exciting prospects. Combine education, practical experience, and a passion for advancing medical science to contribute significantly to patient outcomes. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, Norway’s clinical research field awaits your expertise! 🌟
Link Integration: Let's reinforce the importance of education and training in clinical research by adding relevant course links here.
To embark on a successful journey in clinical research, consider enrolling in courses like ICH-GCP and Clinical Trials Assistant Training to equip yourself with essential knowledge and skills.
Macedonia Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research is a field with a lot of career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in North Macedonia.
Salary:
Based on the latest 2024 data, the average salary for a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in North Macedonia has likely changed since 2020. While specific updated figures for CRAs are not provided, the overall average salary in Macedonia is reported to be 1,360,113 MKD per year1. This suggests that there might have been an increase in the average salaries across different professions, including CRAs.
Given the general salary growth, CRAs in North Macedonia with less than 2 years of experience, who previously earned an average of 32,000 MKD a month, may now earn more. Similarly, the salary increments after 2 years of experience and again after 5-10 years of experience would also have likely increased proportionally.
For the most accurate and updated figures for CRA salaries in North Macedonia, it’s best to consult the latest reports or salary surveys that are specific to the field of clinical research. These resources will provide current information, taking into account factors such as experience, location, and education level.
Here’s an updated summary based on the 2024 data:
The average annual salary in Macedonia is 1,360,113 MKD.
Salaries vary between genders, with men receiving an average of 1,451,025 MKD and women 1,177,563 MKD.
The highest-paid careers are Engineers & Technicians III and Architect Constructions, with average incomes of 7,065,379 MKD and 3,270,389 MKD, respectively.
Education impacts earnings, with those holding a Master’s Degree earning an average of 1,746,811 MKD and those with a Doctorate Degree 1,674,260 MKD.
Experience also affects salaries, with individuals having 20+ years of experience earning 2,182,119 MKD, and those with 16-20 years of experience 1,981,208 MKD.
For a detailed update on CRA salaries, please refer to the latest specialized salary surveys for clinical research professionals.
Requirements to Work:
The minimum education requirement to work as a CRA in North Macedonia is a bachelor’s degree. However, investing in a master’s degree will increase your qualifications and earning power. SalaryExplorer has shown that CRAs with a master’s degree have a 39% higher average salary than CRAs with just a bachelor’s degree.
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in North Macedonia. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our CRA training program and our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
Explore Our Comprehensive CRA Training Program for Career Advancement in Clinical Research
Course Links:
Clinical Research Coordinator: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Research-Coordinator
Pharmacovigilance Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/pharmacovigilance-certification
Clinical Trials Assistant Training: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Trials-Assistant-Training
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Clinical-Research-Project-Manager-Certification
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Principal-Investigator-Physician-Certification
Medical Monitor Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/medial-monitor-certification
Explore our comprehensive CRA training program to take your career in clinical research to new heights. Our courses cover essential topics and provide practical skills to excel in the field of clinical research. Whether you're starting your journey as a Clinical Research Associate or looking to advance your career, our specialized training programs cater to professionals at every level. Enroll today and unlock exciting opportunities in the dynamic field of clinical research!
CROs:
Bosnia and Herzegovina Clinical Research Career Guide
Bosnia and Herzegovina Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research is a field with a lot of career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Salary:
According to SalaryExplorer, the average monthly salary of a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Bosnia and Herzegovina is between 1,154 BAM and 2,835 BAM in 2024. Here’s a breakdown based on experience:
Less than 2 years of experience: On average, CRAs with less than 2 years of experience earn around 1,420 BAM per month.
2-5 years of experience: After gaining 2-5 years of experience, a CRA’s salary increases significantly by 33%, reaching an average of 1,890 BAM per month.
5-10 years of experience: With 5-10 years of experience, CRAs see another substantial increase of 48%, bringing their average monthly salary to 2,790 BAM.
Keep in mind that actual salaries may vary based on your specific experience, location, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to research local market trends and negotiate your compensation accordingly.
Elevate Your Career in Clinical Research with Our CRA Training Program
Clinical Research Coordinator: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Research-Coordinator
Pharmacovigilance Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/pharmacovigilance-certification
Clinical Trials Assistant Training: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Trials-Assistant-Training
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Clinical-Research-Project-Manager-Certification
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Principal-Investigator-Physician-Certification
Medical Monitor Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/medial-monitor-certification
Requirements to Work:
The minimum education requirement to work as a CRA in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a bachelor’s degree. However, investing in a master’s degree will increase your qualifications and earning power. SalaryExplorer has shown that CRAs with a master’s degree have a 93% higher average salary than CRAs with just a bachelor’s degree.
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our CRA training program and our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
Albania Clinical Research Work Guide
Clinical research is a field with great career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Albania.
Salary:
According to SalaryExplorer, the average monthly salary of a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Albania in 2024 is between 47,420 ALL and 131,405 ALL1. Let’s break it down based on experience:
Less than 2 years of experience: On average, CRAs with less than 2 years of experience earn around 60,000 ALL per month.
2-5 years of experience: After gaining 2-5 years of experience, a CRA’s average salary increases by 34%, reaching an average of 80,100 ALL per month.
5-10 years of experience: With 5-10 years of experience, CRAs see another substantial increase of 48%, bringing their average monthly salary to 118,000 ALL.
Remember that actual salaries may vary based on your specific experience, location, and other factors. It’s always wise to research local market trends and negotiate your compensation accordingly. 🌟
For more detailed information, you can explore the SalaryExplorer page for Clinical Research Associates in Albania.
Requirements to Work:
The minimum education requirement to work as a CRA in Albania is a bachelor’s degree. However, investing in a master’s degree and furthering your education increases your qualifications and earning power. For example, SalaryExplorer has shown that CRAs with a master’s degree have a 93% higher average salary than CRAs with just a bachelor’s degree.
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in Albania. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our CRA training program and our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
Explore Courses for Clinical Research Careers in Albania
Courses Available:
Montenegro Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research is a field with great career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought-after positions in the field. CRAs monitor labs and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Montenegro.
Salary:
The average salary for a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Montenegro in 2024, as per data from SalaryExplorer, is 3,090 EUR per month. However, this figure can vary depending on factors such as experience and location.
For those with less than 2 years of experience, the average monthly salary stands at 1,610 EUR. After gaining 2 years of experience, there is a notable increase of 33%, bringing the average salary to 2,150 EUR per month. With 5-10 years of experience, CRAs can expect a further increase of 48%, resulting in an average salary of 3,180 EUR per month.
Overall, salaries for CRAs in Montenegro can range from 1,420 EUR to 4,910 EUR per month, contingent upon individual circumstances.
Requirements to Work:
The minimum education requirement to work as a CRA in Montenegro is a bachelor’s degree. However, investing in a master’s degree will increase your qualifications and earning power. SalaryExplorer has shown that CRAs with a master’s degree have a 93% higher average salary than CRAs with just a bachelor’s degree.
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in Montenegro. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our CRA training program and our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
Explore Courses for Clinical Research Careers in Montenegro
Courses Available:
CRO in Montenegro
Offices in Montenegro:
E-mail: info@clinres-farmacija.hr
Web: http://www.clinres-farmacija.hr
Clinres farmacija,Bul. Svetoga Petra Cetinjskog 114/I,81000 Podgorica,Crna Gora
Europe Clinical Research Career Guide
Europe Clinical Research Career Guide
Clinical research remains a field with significant career potential worldwide. Clinical research associates (CRAs) continue to be highly sought after, overseeing lab and research processes. This role offers financial security and the possibility of frequent work travel. This guide provides an updated overview of becoming a CRA in the EU.
Salary:
EU CRA salaries still vary considerably. While Payscale may cite older data for the Netherlands (€42,874), consult recent job postings and salary comparison websites for the most accurate figures. Glassdoor (https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm) or Indeed (https://www.indeed.jobs/) can be helpful resources. Germany, for instance, might show a higher average closer to Salaryexpert's €59,969 estimate (though this could also fluctuate). Researching your specific country's CRA salary range is crucial.
Requirements to Work:
Successful CRAs come from diverse backgrounds, but the minimum education requirement in most EU postings remains a Bachelor's degree with a strong science focus. Many companies still seek candidates with 1-2 years of relevant experience. Be aware that some companies may prioritize experience within the country they operate in. Bilingualism remains important – fluency in English and the country's official language is generally expected.
Additional Considerations:
Clinical Trial Regulations: The EU has its own set of clinical trial regulations (GCP). Consider familiarizing yourself with these for a competitive edge. You can find information on the EU GCP guidelines on the European Commission website (https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/research-and-development/compliance-research-and-development/good-clinical-practice).
Continuing Education: Staying updated on the latest advancements in clinical research through conferences or online courses can enhance your skillset.
CROs vs. Pharma: Research opportunities exist with both Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and pharmaceutical companies. Explore which environment best suits your career goals.
Conclusion:
While clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ across the EU. This guide aims to provide a starting point. Consider further research tailored to your specific country and desired career path within clinical research.
Explore Courses for Clinical Research Careers:
Clinical Research Careers in India
Clinical Research Courses in India - US Certification
Your Fast Track to a Rewarding Career as a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in India
The world of clinical research is booming, and India is a hotspot for exciting opportunities. If you're looking for a career that combines science, travel, and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives, then becoming a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) might be the perfect fit!
Why be a CRA in India?
Financial Security: The average salary for a CRA in India is ₹342,978, with experienced CRAs earning significantly more (Salary reference: Glassdoor https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/clinical-research-associate-salary-SRCH_KO0,27.htm). Entry-level CRAs can expect to start around ₹298,118, and experienced CRAs can reach an average of ₹696,343.
Travel Perks: CRAs often travel to different research sites, offering a chance to experience new places and cultures.
Global Impact: Your work contributes to the development of new medications and treatments, impacting lives worldwide.
Becoming a CRA in India: A Step-by-Step Guide
Education: A Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in a science field like biology, chemistry, or pharmacy is the minimum requirement. However, a Master's degree (M.Sc., M.Pharma, or Ph.D.) will make you a more competitive candidate.
Experience: While not always mandatory, 1-2 years of experience in research or healthcare will give you a head start. Consider internships or volunteering opportunities to gain relevant skills.
Certification: Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification demonstrates your understanding of ethical research practices and is highly valued by employers.
Additional Tips:
Network: Attend industry events and connect with professionals on LinkedIn to learn more about the field and find potential opportunities.
Highlight Your Skills: Develop strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail is crucial for CRAs.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Explore our website for resources on becoming a CRA, including articles on the international job market. We can also help you find India-specific CRA training programs at competitive prices.
Clinical Research Coordinator: Interested in managing and overseeing clinical trials? Consider becoming a Clinical Research Coordinator: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Research-Coordinator.
Pharmacovigilance Certification: Specialize in monitoring the safety of pharmaceuticals by exploring the Pharmacovigilance Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/pharmacovigilance-certification.
Clinical Research Associate (CRA): Learn to monitor clinical trials effectively and ensure compliance with regulations by becoming a Clinical Research Associate (CRA): https://app.ccrps.org/courses/cra.
ICH-GCP (International Conference on Harmonisation - Good Clinical Practice): Gain an understanding of the ethical and quality standards in clinical research through the ICH-GCP course: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/ich-gcp.
Getting Started in Clinical Trials
Clinical Trials Assistant Training: Starting your career in clinical trials? Consider the Clinical Trials Assistant Training: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Clinical-Trials-Assistant-Training to get foundational skills.
Advanced Clinical Research Careers
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: Aiming to lead clinical research projects? The Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Clinical-Research-Project-Manager-Certification might be the next step.
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: Aspire to lead clinical trials? Consider obtaining the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/Advanced-Principal-Investigator-Physician-Certification.
Medical Monitor Certification: Specialize in monitoring the medical aspects of clinical trials with the Medical Monitor Certification: https://app.ccrps.org/courses/medial-monitor-certification.
Email us for more information on finding the perfect program to launch your exciting career in Clinical Research!
Becoming a CRA in Canada Work Guides
Clinical research is a field with a lot of career potential all over the world. Clinical research associates, or CRAs, are one of the most sought after positions in the field. CRAs monitor lab and research processes. It is a position that offers financial security and many traveling opportunities for work. In this article, we have put together a short work guide on becoming a CRA in Canada.
Salary:
According to the Payscale, the average salary of a CRA in Canada is C$62,082. Entry level CRAs can expect to make an average of C$54,185. Late career CRAs make an average of C$107,500.
Requirements to Work:
Successful CRAs come from all kinds of backgrounds, but the minimal education requirement for a CRA in Canada is a B.A. or a B.S. with a strong focus in science. Many companies look for candidates with 1-2 years of work or monitoring experience. Since Canada’s 2 official languages are French and English, it will be important for candidates to be fluent in both languages
The Clinical Research Association of Canada (CRAC) offers a certification program for clinical research professionals to be recognized as a Clinical Research Professional of Canada (CRPC). The exam requires that you have either 2 years of clinical research experience within the last 5 years, 3,500 hrs of part time experience with at least 1 year of Canadian experience within the last 5 years, or a post-graduate certificate in clinical research and at least 1 years’ experience over the past 2 years in clinical research, where you must have at least 1 year of Canadian experience.
The certification helps already experienced professionals stand out in their fields and access better opportunities. At CCRPS, we offer a training program especially designed to help you ace the Canadian certification exam.
Launch Your Clinical Research Career in Canada: A Guide to Becoming a CRA
List of Courses:
Although clinical research is a global field, job requirements and salaries can differ from place to place. After reading this guide, we hope that you have a better understanding of what it is like to work in Canada. If you want to learn more about clinical research and becoming a CRA, please check out our website or some of our articles below to learn more about the international job scene.
What Is a Clinical Research Associate?
Clinical Research Associates are those responsible for the planning, setting up, and coordinating of clinical trials. They provide technical assistance for experiments, make sure that the scientists that are involved in the clinical research trials comply with regulatory standards, and also collect results during the clinical trials. When the trials are over they are also to be involved in the presentation of the results to the public in a manner that is useful and understandable.
Clinical research associates are those responsible for the planning, setting up, and coordinating of clinical trials. They provide technical assistance for experiments, make sure that the scientists involved in the clinical research trials comply with regulatory standards such as ICH-GCP, and also collect results during the clinical trials. When the trials are over, they are also involved in the public results presentation.
The amazing part about being a clinical research associate is that jobs are available for them in both the laboratory and office settings.
SPECIALIZATIONS
They focus on the following:
Designing and implementing clinical research trials
Training staff, which could be enhanced by taking the Clinical Trials Assistant Training course.
Monitoring progress
Screening test subjects
Presenting findings
Helping maintain the database of all clinical research trainees
SKILLS
As a clinical research associate, you should have the following skills:
Communication skills
Science knowledge
Strong mathematics knowledge base
These core skills are what you need in the clinical research profession.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
As a clinical research associate, you should have one of the following:
High school diploma and 6,000 hours of experience.
An associate degree in clinical research fields and 4,500 hours of experience.
A Bachelor's, Master's, or Registered Nurse degree and 3,000 hours of clinical research experience.
You can come from a variety of medical sciences or health-related fields, or from a nursing background as an RN. Courses offered in hospital and clinical related ethics, team management, and research methodologies will be valuable to your education. Consider advancing your career with certifications like the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification or the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification.
SALARY
The median salary of a clinical research associate boasts of $90,310 annually and it is always on the rise. Plus, there is always a ready market for clinical research professionals.
Explore more about this field with specific courses like the Clinical Research Coordinator training, Pharmacovigilance Certification, or the CRA course. These certifications will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this growing industry.
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
7 Reasons Why You Should Get into Clinical Research
Have you ever thought that there’s a perfect job out there for you, but you just haven’t found it yet? If you are motivated, informed, and interested in a science and medical career, you might have just found your answer. The future in clinical research is bright, and it is one that you will want to be a part of.
The clinical research industry is a highly lucrative and expanding field. The global clinical trials market has been estimated at $80.7 billion in 2024. As the push for new vaccines and therapeutics climbs, the field value is expected to grow even more. Experts predict that the global market will hit $123.5 Billion By 2030.
Contrary to popular belief, working in clinical research doesn’t have to mean you have to stay in a lab. There are demands and opportunities for every skill set, if you know how to find them. Below, I have put together an in-depth guide on why you should get into clinical research.
You like to a job that’s flexible
Don’t like working in a cubical? How about heading to the airport every morning instead? If you like a job that keeps you moving, then becoming a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) might be the right move for you.
CRAs, contrary to what most believe, don’t collect data or interact with patients. A CRA’s job is to travel between different research sites and verify data transcription. They are called “monitors” because it is their job to ensure that every site is following proper compliance and protocols.
There are two types of CRAs: home base and in-house. Home base CRAs work remotely. That means they work and travel from home. If you get tired of working from home, you can become an in-house CRA. In-house CRAs stay in one site and work together with a home base CRA to keep each other updated with what is happening at their site.
You like working with people
Have you ever been told that you are a people person? If talking to new people everyday sounds like something you’d enjoy, you should definitely look into becoming a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC).
CRCs are the backbones to every project. They conduct patient visits, input source documents into the electronic data capture (EDC), and ensure that every trial is following compliance. They are also responsible for handling regulatory documents and updating the Principal Investigator (PI) with trial results.
CRCs conduct a variety of tasks, all of which impact the progress and development of the trial. Every successful clinical trials team needs a good CRC. So, if you have strong interpersonal skills and know how to stay organized, you will be indispensable.
You are tech-savvy
Are you a self-proclaimed techie? Perhaps you’ve dabbled in coding, pick up computer programs easily, and maybe even have a background in IT. Technology is the future. If you think you have a knack for organizing data, you should look into becoming a Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA).
CTAs, also known as Clinical Research Assistants, manage the Trial Master File (TMF). They file, archive, and maintain trial documents and study files. They are also responsible for closing inquiries from the CRA, as well as providing administrative support to the research team. Every important step in clinical research, pre-clinical research, study startup, site management, needs a dependable CTA.
While most jobs in clinical research require some understanding of technology, it is especially important for the CTA to know what they are doing when it comes to managing trial documents and study files. In addition, it is equally important that the CTA is organized and pays attention to detail.
You like a good salary with room for promotion
Current Salary Data (USA, 2024):
CTAs:
Average salary: Update to $66,007 (according to Salary.com)
Salary range: Update to $57,991 - $73,867 (according to Salary.com)
CRAs:
The salary progression for CRAs with experience (one to two years - $72,358, seasoned - $110,102) and individual contractor CRAs (up to $300,000) can stay as is.
General salary comparison: The point about the average US base salary being $40,000 and CTA/CRC salaries being good for entry-level positions remains valid.
salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and specific employers.
You don’t want to go back to school
In clinical research, experience is often valued over degrees. Rather what you didn’t study in college, hiring managers are more interested in what you have done in the past and how they can integrate you into their company. While graduate programs can help point you in the right direction, you don’t need a master’s degree to succeed in clinical research. In fact, certain positions don’t even require a bachelor’s or associate’s degree.
Applying to CRC and CTA positions are one of the most common segways into higher positions in clinical research. CRCs don’t need a bachelor’s or associate’s degree to get their foot in the door. While both CTA and CRA positions require a bachelor’s degree, they don’t have to be in the life sciences.
One of the best ways to gain experience and stand out from the crowd is to have on-site experience. If you need advice on how, Dan Sfera, the CEO of DSCS CRO Clinical Research Services, recommends getting started by interning or volunteering at clinics and research sites to build connections and experience. Sometimes, the easiest way to get involved is to offer services like patient recruitment and social media management in exchange for opportunities to build your CV. By appealing to a site’s needs, this will help you get your foot in the door and build the connections and resume you need.
Another great way of adding experience to your resume is by training through certification courses. When employers see that you have taken the time and effort to understand how to be the best in their field, they are more far likely to hire you. At CCRPS.org, we offer seven courses and certification trainings to give you an advantage. 82% of our students are hired within the first month of taking the course. We are accredited by the Accreditation Council For Clinical Research & Education (ACCRE) and tailor our course to you. For example we offer special courses for nurses and an accelerated certification + internship opportunity for anyone with minimal or no clinical experience.
You come from a different field
Switching career fields can be nerve wracking. However, it is also an opportunity for you to be a unique candidate. Whether you come from a closely-related background, like medicine or nursing, or something completely different, there are ways you can advocate for yourself in front of employers.
If you already have a background in medicine, your knowledge of healthcare and your passion for patient health will make for a smooth translation into clinical research. In addition, your RN or MD degrees will help you gain a competitive edge and allow you to climb higher positions, such as the PI, who is the primary researcher of an operation.
On the other hand, if you come from a less relevant field, you can still leverage yourself to be exactly what the clinical research field needs. For example, if you are a teacher, your communication and interpersonal skills will be your keys to success. If you are a lawyer, your ability to draft and read papers will far surpass the average candidate. If you studied mathematics, you are a skilled problem solver. If you are a translator, your language skills are valuable and will help you get into roles that require it. In short, whatever skills helped you succeed in your previous positions, you can bring it with you to clinical research.
You want to make a difference in the world
There are two types of people in the world: ones who accept the world as it is, and ones who strive to change it. In the last 50 years, science and medicine have gone through a series of drastic changes. However, anyone who works behind the scenes will tell you that medical breakthroughs are not miracles. Clinical research is the culmination of human effort and intelligence. The fruits and labor of the ever-expanding industry are proof that if enough people care about the world, then they can change it. While there are many good reasons to work in clinical research, if you want the privilege to enrich the lives of others, there is a place for you in this field.
If you want to take a sneak peak at employers and opportunities near you, jobs sites like Indeed are a great resource.
Here are links for aspiring CRAs, for CRCs, and for CTAs. (Note: CTAs are often referred to Clinical Research Assistants, not to be confused for Clinical Research Associates)
Unlocking Your Future in Clinical Research: Discover the Perfect Career Path for You
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
How Clinical Research Certification Could Help You Land a Job
Clinical research courses are very important for a variety of clinical research positions that require different skill sets. To find the right job opportunity, there are a number of key factors which you should consider while finding a training course.
As a clinical researcher, you should know your long-term and short-term goals. Then, you should develop the skill sets and gain the experience to reach them. For example, if your goal is to move in from a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) to a Clinical Research Associate (CRA), you should start building skills that a regional associate or a monitoring role would find valuable. Sometimes that can be as easy as taking on more diverse tasks at your current position, or taking an online CRA course.
Benefits of holding clinical research certification
According to the clinical association research profession, the evidence indicated to the regulatory bodies that certification reduces the risk factor to work in a research subjects.
It has been shown that trials have fewer errors, lower costs or more rapid turnaround, and higher safety in clinical trials when certified professional trainees are involved.
Certifications can help demonstrate to employers your confidence and abilities, as well as your long-term and short-term goals and how they might benefit the company. For CROs, employees with certifications will improve their company’s marketability and standards. Certification in areas like Pharmacovigilance or ICH-GCP can be particularly valuable.
Certification will make you more competitive in the industry to allow you to stand out.
If a company interviews you and another candidate with equal experience and education, their manager will be more likely to hire the candidate who has a certification.
If you have a certification, you can negotiate for higher salary. Getting certified, especially in specialized roles such as Clinical Trials Assistant Training, Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification, or Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification, will open more opportunities to you, where you can be hired for more senior and better paid positions within the company.
Even though there are enormous job vacancies in this field, employers will only hire skilled applicants that can do the job. A certification is a formal recognition for your skills, experience and performance. It will help validate your resume, especially when they are compared to other applicants’.
There are lots of clinical research online certification courses where you can study under best universities. To understand more, you can visit ccrps.org to understand their online certification course work, as well as any questions about the clinical research exam. Below, we have complied some helpful articles to help you excel in the field.
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
The Smart Way to Become a Pharmaceutical Research Associate
Many people are interested in working in the pharmaceutical sector. To break into the field, it is critical to look for relevant courses offered by reliable institutes. The search for the latest updates of top programs can help you make use of every chance to be successful in your career.
Pharmaceutical research associates around the world have a commitment to provide the best support and services. It is important for newcomers to understand the nature of their job and the importance of utilizing every opportunity to improve their expertise.
Focus on the Clinical Research Programs Online
Recently, many professionals in the medical sector join online programs to improve their professional expertise. In these programs, they network with other certified clinical research professionals and listen to courses designed for pharmaceutical research associates. In these online programs, you learn not only the fundamentals, but also the latest updates in the field. Online courses are valuable for newcomers who want to stand out from the crowd, as well as busy professionals who need their education at their own pace. Those interested in specific roles may consider the Clinical Research Coordinator course, the Pharmacovigilance Certification, or the CRA certification.
Join the Right Program
To find the right program, you can listen to clinical research program demos and compare them based on some significant factors like the course type, cost, benefits, and drawbacks. The best courses are accredited by reliable institutions and designed to fit your goals and lifestyle. At CCRPS, we offer ACCRE accredited courses that are designed by real field professionals. Additionally, our courses are quick and cost-effective. For those looking to expand their expertise further, consider our ICH-GCP course, Clinical Trials Assistant Training, Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification, or the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification. For a specialized path, explore our Medical Monitor Certification.
Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.
This integration adds the provided links at natural points in the existing content, where readers might be looking for specific courses or further details about opportunities in clinical research, without altering the original meaning or removing any existing links.
What is the Best CRA Training Program for You?
To any CRA, proper training and certification is critical. After all, employers want to hire applicants that are proficient and knowledgeable. At CCRPS, we can help jump start your career with our flexible, ACCRE accredited program. In addition, check out some of our other CRA articles below to learn more about the field and position.
Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.
Enhance Your Skills with Specialized Training:
If you're looking to specialize in specific areas within clinical research or further develop your expertise, consider enrolling in our comprehensive courses:
Clinical Research Coordinator: Dive deep into the responsibilities and intricacies of coordinating clinical trials. Enroll here.
Pharmacovigilance Certification: Master the principles and practices of drug safety monitoring. Enroll here.
CRA (Clinical Research Associate): Hone your skills as a CRA and excel in managing clinical trial conduct. Enroll here.
ICH-GCP (International Conference on Harmonisation - Good Clinical Practice): Understand the global standards for conducting clinical trials. Enroll here.
Clinical Trials Assistant Training: Learn the essentials of supporting clinical trial operations effectively. Enroll here.
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification: Elevate your career with advanced project management skills tailored to clinical research. Enroll here.
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification: Equip yourself with the expertise needed to lead clinical trials as a principal investigator. Enroll here.
Medical Monitor Certification: Gain the necessary skills to oversee clinical trial safety and medical aspects effectively. Enroll here.
Discover more from Clinical Research Training | Certified Clinical Research Professionals Course
Clinical Research Associate Job Description
Read more about the Clinical Research Associate Jobs descriptions and skills that require in Clinical Research Associate post. Visit us now!
Clinical research associates (CRAs) are responsible for organizing and administering clinical research trials for new or current drugs so that they may assess the risks and benefits of using them. The major responsibilities of clinical research associate jobs are:
They write out the procedures for administering drug trials.
They identify and brief appropriate trial investigators.
They make use of their knowledge of the basics of clinical research to collect and analyze and record data.
They design trail materials and supply the research study centers with the quantities that they need.
They monitor the process of the trial from the start to the finish.
Clinical research associates are always present in the institute of clinical research because of the essential duties that they perform. However, the position is very competitive according to various job websites. As competitive as it is, it is also lucrative. Clinical research associate can work in government clinical research institute, pharmaceutical companies, private owned clinical research institute, etc. Their salaries may differ based on how much the individual companies or employees offer at their different choice of work place. But on the average, clinical research associates are paid around $65,000 per year. This leaves the pay at about $24 - $25 per hour.
There are various factors that can affect how much a clinical research associate (CRA) goes home with at the end of the month or cumulatively at the end of the year. These factors can be the location of the company, that is, the economic strength of the country or city where they are working, the degree or certificate or the level of education and exposure that the CRA has, the number of years if working experience that they have accumulated. These factors work together to determine how much they take home.
You can boost your chances of getting a higher pay, in the region of $85,000 to $90,000 or even more by getting the necessary education and certification. For example, experienced contract CRAs can earn up to $300k.
Skills required to be successful as a clinical research associates include:
A logical and inquisitive mindset with quick thinking.
Good organizational abilities.
Excellent communication skills. Both written and verbal are important.
Commercial awareness.
Confidence
The basic requirement to be a clinical research associate is an undergraduate degree or a postgraduate degree in related life sciences fields (like biology, toxicology, microbiology, pharmacology, biochemistry), nursing, or medical sciences (like immunology, pharmacy, anatomy, physiology, or medicine). Due to the competitive nature of the job, some people go ahead and obtain a doctorate degree in any of the above mentioned fields. This gives them a better chance of getting a senior level job and increase their promotion prospect.
Beyond academic degrees, you need to be certified to become a clinical research associate. You need certification from organizations like ACRP (association of clinical research professionals) or SOCRA (society of clinical research associates). You will need to obtain certification course and pass the exams to become certified. At ccrps.org, we offer ACCRE accredited courses and insider information on everything you need to know for a career in clinical research. You can click here to see the offers for the courses available.
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
How to Become a CRA and Succeed
The Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is one of the most popular entry-level job in the clinical research sector. It is also one of the most competitive and lucrative positions for new hires. How do you stand out from hundreds of other applicants? You need to build field intelligence and experience.
Knowledge is power in the clinical research industry. For example, did you know that there are loads of differences between the clinical trial and clinical research? If you pay attention to learning the critical details of the field, employers will see and appreciate the effort you put into understanding the field.
There are many institutions that provide clinical research courses for aspiring professionals. However, CCRPS' reputation for the best-in-class programs is offered at the competitive prices is unbeatable. Our world-class facilities is known for teaching both basic and advanced lessons that help professionals in clinical research.
Improve your Clinical research job qualifications
To become a CRA, you’ll need an undergraduate degree in medical science, life science, biotech or nursing and a certification. Alternatively, you can use your diploma from a clinical research program from a reputable institution. If you have a graduate degree in the clinical research, then you are eligible for senior level positions and a higher pay grade.
In addition to your degree, individual should demonstrate their interest by joining a clinical research associate program from a trustworthy institution, such as our CRA certification. There are many specific skills required to become a qualified clinical research associate, and they aren’t always taught in every programs. You must understand the healthcare system, clinical research, healthcare regulation and procedures and other things for successfully regulating the growth of the healthcare products.
Presently, individuals who want to become a CRA should be capable of preparing a clinical development plan and ensuring the clinical trial data. They should have the overall understanding of the liabilities and responsibilities of performing the study with human subjects. They have to know all the challenges and restrictions of implementing and retaining databases.
At CCRPS, our program will walk you through what you need to know to become a CRA. Our AACRE accredited program is curated by real life professionals with years of direct experience in clinical research. Best of all, you can learn at your own pace. With our flexible online learning model, you can take your education anywhere you do. Enroll and start working toward your dream career through our online CRA certification program today. If you’d like to learn more, check out some of our other CRA articles below or explore additional programs like our ICH-GCP course, Clinical Research Coordinator course, and the Pharmacovigilance Certification.
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
Job Training for High School Graduates Using a Clinical Research Institute for Online Clinical Research Certification (CTA, CRA, CRC)
Choosing the right job course online is a challenging task for almost everyone new to certification programs. There are so many different attention-grabbing packages of affordable clinical research programs, how do you know which one is for you? People who focus on the successful institution specializing in the clinical research programs are most likely to find a program they can truly learn and benefit from. Visit CCRPS, a major AACRE accredited U.S Organization, and find courses provided by the certified clinical research professionals. You will get guidance about the programs in the clinical research that goes beyond your expectations. Their education will help you make a better-informed decision to choose and join in one of the best programs without complexity in any aspect.
Job training for high school graduates
Future professionals with an ambition to choose and join the best courses should consider important things like the overall value of the course and how they contribute to career development. At CCRPS, we not only offer a description of what to expect in the field, we also offer real life suggestions from experts already working in clinical research.
Once you have joined our program, you can learn more than a few important things and enhance your career profile. You will get different career options and make positive changes in your career life. You will be satisfied with the successful method to prefer and join in the suitable job after a comprehensive analysis of an array of important things.
Here are some courses you might consider:
Clinical Research Coordinator Certification - Ideal for those looking to coordinate clinical trial activities.
Pharmacovigilance Certification - Focuses on drug safety and adverse effects management.
CRA Certification - Prepares you for the role of Clinical Research Associate.
ICH-GCP Certification - Essential for professionals needing to understand Good Clinical Practice guidelines.
Clinical Trials Assistant Training - Provides foundational knowledge for those starting in clinical trials.
Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification - For experienced professionals aiming for project management roles.
Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification - Tailored for physicians leading clinical trials.
Medical Monitor Certification - Designed for those overseeing the medical aspects of clinical trials.
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
