How to Become a Clinical Research Assistant: A Complete Guide to Becoming A CTA with No Experience on Resume
How To Become A Clinical Research Assistant
A Complete Guide To Becoming A Clinical Trial Assistant With No Experience On Resume
Clinical Research Assistant
The work of a clinical trial/research assistant (CTA) in clinical research can never be overstated. It is an important career that requires a lot of interest and dedication in order to be successful. If you have developed interest in becoming a CTA, there are certain questions that you must ask yourself. Are you really cut out for this career path? Are you eager to take up more responsibilities in a work place? Can you monitor the trial subject and ensure that the trial is conducted in a safe and ethical manner? If your answers to this questions are yes, then you might just be cut out for the job of a clinical trial assistant.
CCRPS offers the only accredited 5-day, on-demand advanced clinical research assistant certification (ACRAC) course available to help your learn and apply knowledge and increase your chances of 1) getting a job 2) being efficient and successful in your career.
Responsibilities of a Clinical Research Assistant
A clinical trial assistant have a lot of responsibilities and roles to fulfill within a clinical research institute to ensure the success of a project. Some of these responsibilities include:
Maintaining the standard operating procedures (SOP).
Provide regular report updates of the progress of clinical studies to the appropriate personnel.
Planning and conducting of pre-study site evaluation.
Conduct clinical site feasibility and are as well involved in study visibility.
Assess the study subjects to ensure that the appropriate clinical protocols are observed and the trial is in sync with laid down regulations.
Research Assistant Job Description
Participate in the design, administration and monitoring of clinical trials. Analyze and evaluate clinical data gathered during research. Ensure compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives.
May require a BS, RN, or BSN degree or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements is required. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures within a particular field. Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Work under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Minimum Education Requirements For Clinical Trial Assistant
Requirements:
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis
High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred
The educational requirement for a clinical research assistant is at the very least a high school diploma or associate degree in a health science. That's the least requirement, although more employers now prefer a B.Sc degree. Even if you don’t have a health science degree. if you took sciences related courses like nursing, life sciences, medical science, biotechnology, you should absolutely let the companies you are applying to know.
Another avenue you can become a clinical trial assistant is through certification. This is possible and is most common for people without formal education in the fields mentioned. Certification can be very demanding as it requires a lot of administrative knowledge in the area of clinical research. Many CTAs move on to become CRCs, CRAs, and administrators.
Skills You Need To Show On Your Research Assistant Resume
To be successful as a clinical research assistant, there are certain skill sets that are required.
A knowledge of the challenges and restrictions involved in the implementation and retention of databases.
A complete understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities involved in the use of humans for trial tests.
An ability to make excellent clinical development plan.
Must be able to ensure that data gotten from clinical trials are accurate and reliable and the legal rights and privacy of the subjects are protected.
Having these above listed skills and being efficient in them make the job of a clinical trial assistant easier and more interesting.
Responsibilities:
Conduct literature reviews
Collect and analyze data
Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies and foundations
Prepare interview questions
Recruit and/or interview subjects
Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects, as necessary
Summarize interviews
Provide ready access to all experimental data for the faculty researcher and/or supervisor
Request or acquire equipment or supplies necessary for the project
Manage and respond to project related email
Prepare, maintain and update website materials
Supervise undergraduate students working on the research project (maintaining records on assignment completion, acting as liaison/mediator between the undergraduate students and the faculty researcher)
Attend project meetings
Attend area seminars and other meetings as necessary
Summarize project results
Prepare progress reports
Prepare other articles, reports and presentations
Monitor the project budget
Travel to field sites to collect and record data and/or samples as appropriate to the specific objectives of the study
As appropriate to the specified position, code and verify data in accordance with specified research protocol and coding procedures and enter data into a computer database and/or spreadsheet application for subsequent analysis
Develop or assist in the development of interview schedules; contact potential subjects to introduce and explain study objectives and protocol and to arrange interviews, either in person or by telephone
Identify and compile lists of potential research subjects in accordance with study objectives and parameters, as appropriate to the individual position
Conduct and record face-to-face and/or telephone interviews with subjects, in accordance with predetermined interview protocol, data collection procedures and documentation standards
Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information; follow up with subjects to resolve problems or clarify data collected
May set up, calibrate and maintain laboratory and/or field research equipment, as specified by the requirements of the study
May lead or guide the work of student employees
Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned
Prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management
Write and contribute to publications
Develop research protocols
Track progress over time
Assist with preparation of all educational and training workshops and evaluation strategies
Engage clinical and community partners in research
Market training and technical assistance resources to clinical partners and academic investigators
Develop assessment and evaluation tools
Compile data for progress reports
Where To Reach Out For Trial Assistant Experiences And Internships
Landing that first trial assistant experience or internship can be a stepping stone to a rewarding career in clinical research. In this blog, we'll explore various avenues to find these valuable opportunities and launch your journey in this dynamic field.
Education and Certification:
While not always mandatory, a degree in a life sciences field like biology, health sciences, or nursing can be beneficial. However, even without a degree, you can break into the field. Consider pursuing a certification program offered by organizations like the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment.
Finding Trial Assistant Opportunities:
Industry-Specific Platforms: Leverage job boards frequented by the clinical research community. Look for platforms like Society for Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) or ACRP job boards. These boards often list internship and entry-level positions specifically for Clinical Trial Assistants (CTAs).
General Job Boards: Don't neglect popular job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn. Utilize relevant keywords like "clinical trial assistant internship" or "research assistant" to filter your search and uncover a wider range of opportunities.
University Resources:
Career Services Departments: Many universities have dedicated career centers that assist students in finding internships. Connect with your career advisor to discuss your interest in clinical research and explore internship opportunities within the university or with partnering institutions.
Research Departments: Universities often conduct their own clinical trials. Reach out to professors or research departments to inquire about potential research assistant positions. This can provide valuable hands-on experience.
Government Websites:
Regulatory Agencies: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers student volunteer programs ([resources for getting experience in clinical research]).
Networking:
Professional Associations: Join associations like ACRP or SOCRA. Attend industry conferences or webinars to connect with professionals, learn about the field, and discover potential internship or job openings.
LinkedIn: Build your professional profile on LinkedIn and connect with individuals working in clinical research. Reach out to them politely and express your interest in gaining experience. Show genuine curiosity and highlight your transferable skills.
Local Directories:
CTAs can leverage online directories to target their search. After obtaining your certification, reach out to request experiences or internships at:
Clinical research organizations (CROs)
Pharmaceutical companies
Biotechnology companies
These directories can be found through professional association websites or a simple online search using terms like "USA clinical trial directory" or "USA CRO directory". Here are some examples:
ClinicalTrials.gov (a comprehensive listing of clinical trials registered in the US)
CRO Directory (searchable directory of contract research organizations)
BioPharmCatalyst (industry resource with listings of clinical trials and CROs)
Volunteering:
Hospitals and Research Institutions: Volunteer at hospitals or research institutions involved in clinical trials. This can provide valuable firsthand experience and build connections with professionals in the field.
Additional Tips:
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight relevant coursework, volunteer experiences, and any transferable skills that demonstrate your aptitude for the role. Research the specific company or institution you're applying to and tailor your application to their needs.
Be Proactive: Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Research companies conducting trials in your area and directly contact their clinical research departments. Express your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
By exploring these avenues and demonstrating your enthusiasm, you'll increase your chances of landing a trial assistant experience or internship and taking that crucial first step towards a fulfilling career in clinical research.
Clinical Trial Assistant Training
Unlike the hundreds of CTAs who apply to a position, you can give your resume and interview a huge advantage by having certification. CCRPS' offers complete clinical trial assistant training and certification by the ACCRE through our clinical trial assistant training course. Certification as a CTA can help you show competency to work and apply for roles; many students use the course as a way to update their resume and land the interview at the site they desire. If you plan to continue a career in clinical research, ask our 24/7 chat and phone advisors for partial scholarships. We also offer up to 4 month payment plans ($100 per month).
Advanced Clinical Trial Assistant Training: CTA Syllabus CCRPS
Introduction
Accreditation Council For Clinical Research & Education for CCRPS
Fundamentals Of Clinical Research
An Introduction to Clinical Research
An Overview of ICH GCP
Code of Federal Regulations
CFR 21 Part 11
Clinical Trial Roles And Responsibilities
Sponsor/CRO Responsibilities
13 Principles, IRB, & Investigator Roles
Informed Consent & Patient Safety
Informed Consent FREE PREVIEW
Safety of Human Subjects in Clinical Research FREE PREVIEW
Adverse Event Reporting & Responsibilities
Reporting Responsibilities of the Investigators
Adverse Events
Ethical Research In Vulnerable Populations
Ethics of Research Involving Children
Ethics of Research Involving Mentally Incapacitated FREE PREVIEW
Ethics of Research Involving Pregnant Women and Fetuses
Ethics of Research Involving Prisoners
Trial Management, Data Handling, And Record Retention
Trial Management – Data Handling and Record Retention
a) Common Terminology Used In Clinical Research
b) Commonly Used Abbreviations and Terms in Clinical Research
Clinical Trials - Advanced Review
Advanced Designs of Clinical Trials
Advanced Review of Phases of Clinical Trials (Preclinical & Phase 0-4)
FREE PREVIEW
Subject Recruitment, Retention, And Compliance
Patient Recruitment in Clinical Trials
Patient Engagement and Retention in Clinical Trials
Patient Adherence and Compliance in Clinical Trials
Misconduct And Fraud
Scientific Misconduct and Fraud
Detecting Falsification
Clinical Trial Assistant Certification Exam
ICH GCP Clinical Trials Assistant Exam (30 Questions)
What To Know For Clinical Trial Assistant Interview Questions
The work of a clinical research assistant is one of extreme importance to the clinical research institute, and employers will to testing to see if you understand what position entails.
Clinical research assistants is to test new medications, therapies and types of treatment and new medical devices to be sure of the safety of their use and the efficacy or efficiency of their work. These clinical trials are very much regulated and seriously monitored to ensure that they comply with the laid down regulations. The need to keep various records, in order to meet up with compliance requirements can be a burden. That is where clinical research assistants come in.
Clinical research assistant are responsible for performing the different safety and quality checks within their unit. Some of these checks are routinely carried out daily, weekly or monthly. The daily checks are usually the first thing they carry out on resuming to work everyday. This is to ensure the safety of all the staffs and volunteers within the clinical research institute and as well improve the quality of the data collected and the results.
The job of a clinical research assistant is to help in finding subjects that can be used for clinical trials, they are responsible for collecting and analyzing the data gotten from clinical tests and trials and they also evaluate the result. They are the ones that keep all the record of activities in the clinical research institute for the purpose of references. They practically ensure that the clinical trial activities are in line with laid down regulations. The amount of data to be collected, evaluated and stored form the trials make this job an important one. That means it is a job in high demand.
Their importance means that there are a variety of places where they can work. Clinical research assistants can work at clinical research institutes, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies and a whole host of other medically and clinically inclined organizations.
The standard equipment like freezers and fridges are checked at least twice daily. This is important because they are used for storing specific research samples and other medications that needs to be kept in controlled temperature and a slight deviation from that can affect the validity of the result and the research. The emergency equipment are also checked regularly on a daily basis.
Part of a clinical research assistant's job is to assist all members of the team and deal with different queries from members of the public. It is also their duty to control all medical stock used in their unit, prepare materials for screening visits, prepare consent forms, questionnaires and information sheets and keeping study files while archiving the files for completed studies.
In the midst of these many duties, it is very important that the clinical research assistant is very capable of multitasking. A good communication skill (both written and verbal) is very important to do this work successfully. One thing that is a must for anyone aspiring to take up this job is to have a keen eye for details. It is also important to be able to ask the right question and develop your knowledge base as much as possible. If you can demonstrate that you have these skills in your interview, you should be all set to go.
Clinical Research Assistant Salary
Per Payscale
The salary of a clinical research assistant can vary depending on different factors like location, institution or employer etc. However, the average yearly salary is $41,000 at an hourly average of $17. It can rise as high as $55,000 or as low as $32,000.
If you'll like to apply for the post of a clinical research assistant, it makes it easier for you if you have B.Sc in life science or social science related courses. If you don't, go enroll for a bachelor's degree and get experiences by volunteering in clinical trials
The purpose of clinical research is to test new medications, therapies, and new medical devices to be sure of the safety of their use and their efficiency. These clinical trials are very much regulated and seriously monitored to ensure that they comply with the laid down regulations. The need to keep various records, in order to meet up with compliance requirements can be a burden.
That is where clinical research assistants come in….
CTA Salary Prediction Provided by Payscale
CCRPS offers the only clinical research assistant certification (ACRAC) course available
The job of a clinical research assistant is to help in finding subjects that can be used for clinical trials, collecting and analyzing the data from clinical tests, and they also evaluate the result.
They are the ones who keep all the record of activities in the clinical research institute for future references. They practically ensure that the clinical trial activities are in line with laid down regulations. The amount of data to be collected, evaluated and stored form the trials make this job an important one. That means it is a job in high demand.
Their importance means that there are a variety of places where they can work. Clinical research assistants can work at clinical research institutes, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies and a whole host of other medically and clinically inclined organizations.
The educational requirements required to work as a clinical research assistant includes a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or a doctorate degree in life sciences or other medical related sciences.
These are just basic educational requirements, if you are interested in getting into clinical research, you need more than just degrees in life science. Not because they are not important but because they do not offer you the core knowledge and experience needed to be successful in this career. Based on your chosen discipline in clinical research, you can choose to offer courses related to your discipline and you will be taught by seasoned and experience lecturers in the industry keen to pass on their knowledge and experience. You can also register to be a member of clinical research based associations at CCRPS and find more expert information on the clinical research field. All you need to have a rapid career is right here.
CCRPS offers the only accredited 5-day, on-demand clinical research assistant certification (ACRAC) course available to help your learn and apply knowledge and increase your chances of 1) getting a job 2) being efficient and successful in your career.
Fundamentals of Clinical Trials and Phases of Clinical Trials
A Blueprint for Reliable Research
Fundamentals of Clinical Trials :
Most errors in clinical trials are a result of poor planning. Careful planning with proper foresight is crucial. The objective of clinical trials is to establish the effect of the intervention. The key features of clinical trials to meet these objectives are randomization, blinding, prospective evaluation, and a control group. Many issues have to consider when designing clinical trials. Fundamental issues include:
Fig 1: Clinical Trial ICH GCP
• Clearly defining the research question
• Minimizing variation
• Randomization
• Stratification
• Selection of the population for trial
• placebo
• The selection of endpoint
• Sample size
• Planning of internment analysis
Phases of Clinical Trials
Fig 2: Fundamentals of clinical trials
The design of every clinical trial starts with basic research questions. These research questions must be clear enough to help a vague concept to a particular hypothesis that we can test. There are two strategies to design research questions. One strategy is hypothesis testing, where research presents a thanks hypothesis. Then it outlines questions to disapprove it. There is an alternative hypothesis having questions that support it. The second strategy is estimation. For example, a trial must be planned to estimate the difference between two therapies with appropriate precision. (Scott R. Evans, 2011)
What is a randomized clinical trial?
Randomization is a powerful tool that helps control for bias in clinical trials. In randomized clinical trials, subjects were assigned randomly to one or more than two therapies and then treated in an identic identically potential visible. Randomized control trials are the most critical way of determining whether a cause-effect relationship exists between treatment and outcome and for accessing the cost-effectiveness of treatment.
Clinical trials are divided into phases based on the object of the trial. There are four phases of clinical trials that are as follows.
1-Phase 1 clinical trial
2- Phase 2 clinical trial
3- Phase 3 clinical trial
4- Phase 4 clinical trial
What is a phase 1 clinical trial?
Phase 1 trial, known as drug escalation in human pharmacology, is the first instance when new investigational agents are studied on humans. These experiments are usually performed in a small number of healthy as well as diseased individuals. Phase 1 studies are to find how many doses of a drug can be administered safely trial tout causing any toxicity in individuals.
What is a phase 2 clinical trial?
Phase 2 trial, known as therapeutic exploratory, is usually larger than phase 1 trial and is conducted in small numbers to a volunteer who has the disease of interest. Phase 2 trial determines the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of the drug. It is also essential to get answers to questions that are essential for planning phase 3 trials.
What is a phase 3 clinical trial?
A phase 3 clinical trial, known as therapeutic confirmatory, is conduct over a more diverse group of individuals to demonstrate and check the efficacy of drugs. It is also necessary to estimate the incidence of common side effects.
What is a phase 4 clinical trial?
Phase 4 trials know as therapeutic use, are observational studies performed on FDA-approved drugs. Identify less common adverse effects and check the efficacy and effectiveness of the drug.
Fig 3: Phases of Clinical Trials
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3083073/ - Fundamentals of clinical trial design
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3272827/ - Key Concepts of Clinical Trials: A Narrative Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5989153/ - Clinical trial design and dissemination: comprehensive analysis of clinicaltrials.gov and PubMed data since 2005
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1884542/ - What is a clinical trial?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6662388/ - Regulatory Affairs 101: Introduction to Investigational New Drug Applications and Clinical Trial Applications
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
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
Clinical Research Courses for CTA and CRA
Clinical research courses are necessary to ensure that there are enough competent, responsible, and efficient clinical research professionals in the clinical research field. In this article, we'll be paying attention to the clinical research courses for Clinical Trial Assistants (CTAs), and Junior or Senior Clinical Research Associates (CRAs).
CTA
CTAs are one of the crucial role players in the clinical research process. They maintain the project's records, files, documentation and store them. They also assist with the review of clinical project records for accuracy and make them complete and ready for audit.
The CTA course offered at CCRPS are for those who are new to the job and want to cover the basics and principles of clinical research.
The program will highlight ICH GCP as the clinical research basis to introduce the new CTAs to drug development and to be familiar with the rules. It covers clinical studies operations, data management, and informatics, investigational product development and regulation, etc.
CRA
Junior Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are introduced to Clinical Research, the life cycle of a clinical trial, how to monitor the clinical trial activities at different stages, clinical data monitoring, and management. It helps student become more familiar with the job of a CRA from the start of a clinical trial to its end. The course offered are similar to as those of a CTA’s.
Senior Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are given opportunities to face more complex clinical trials and site management issues. The program will highlight the importance of international research as well as the role of the ICH GCP process. It also gives updates on the overview of current legislative requirements including:
guidance on substantial trial modifications,
improving the recruitment process of subjects and site staff
how to prioritize and upgrade clinical trial monitoring tasks and activities
accurate monitoring and reporting, dealings with non-compliance
efficient tracking and coaching and mentoring junior CRAs
The courses offered will expand the knowledge and improve the monitoring skills to help take and make the right actions and decisions to resolve site issues.
Each of the courses is designed to produce competent clinical research professionals.
Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become Clinical Trial Assistants, and Junior and Senior Clinical Research Associates.
Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.
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.
Discover more from Clinical Research Training | Certified Clinical Research Professionals Course
What You Need to Know About Being a CTA (Clinical Trial/Research Assistant)
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The work of a CTA (clinical trial/research assistant) is one of extreme importance to the clinical research institute. CTAs work in a very busy department. To succeed, they needs to have a keen eye for details and an open mind to learn. They need to be able to ask the right question and find the right solutions.
DUTIES
The CTA helps in the collection and organization of data that is procured from studies. A typical day of a CTA is spent observing and communicating with the volunteers who are recruited to handle these kinds of studies. They are then responsible for analyzing and interpreting the statistics, which helps researchers realize their conclusions and results.
One of the critical tasks of a CTA is performing the different safety and quality checks within their unit. These checks are routinely carried out daily, weekly, or monthly. For example, standard equipment such as freezers and fridges are checked at least twice daily. This is important because they are used for storing samples and medications that needs to be kept in controlled temperature. Even a slight deviation from the controlled temperature can impact the validity of the result and the research.
Additionally, emergency equipment is checked on a daily basis. This ensures the safety of all the staffs and volunteers within the clinical research institute.
Another part of a CTA's job is to assist members of the team and deal with queries from members of the public. A CTA has to work in an administrative capacity and help with research paperwork. There are others who may have to perform some basic medical responsibilities like administering the medication for trials and even drawing blood.
In the midst of these many duties, it is very important that the CTA is good at multitasking. A good communication skill (both written and verbal) is also very important in this line of work.
EDUCATION
Most of the jobs in this area need a person to have a bachelor’s degree within the life sciences. However, there are some employers who require an advanced graduate degree, like a BMSc.
It is important for the clinical research assistants have a strong educational background in the administration of clinical trials. This means that you may have the kind of skills that help in organization. Having an interest in statistics and math can be an added advantage.
If you don’t have a degree in the science field and don’t want to go back to school, finding training and real experiences in clinical trials is going to help you hand a CTA position. At CCRPS, we offer effective courses and experiences you need to get your foot in the door. We have a CTA course and a free ICH GCP certification course, which teaches important skills that will help you succeed in clinical research. If you are looking to advance further, consider our Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification or the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification. For those interested in the crucial aspects of drug safety, our Pharmacovigilance Certification might be the right fit. Explore these to gain deeper insights and practical knowledge.
Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.
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Clinical Research Career Salaries (CRA, CTA, CRC, ect)
CCRP Course Provides Certification to work in the following roles
Senior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) 200 profiles
$101,978 $74K-$121K
Clinical Research Associate (CRA) 198 profiles
$67,532 $44K-$106K
Clinical Trial Manager 56 profiles
$102,283 $69K-$139K
Clinical Project Manager40 profiles
$111,006 $73K-$136K
Clinical Operations Manager 7 profiles
$116,859 $108K-$125K
Clinical Research Manager 6 profiles
$108,250 $98K-$119K
Associate Clinical Research Director 5 profiles
$136,950 $116K-$148K
The tuition fee is $1,795 ($18 per module) is offered over a 4-month payment plan in this link. The online training can be completed within 1-4 months time and can start within 24 hours of tuition payment.
Are you looking to work in the clinical research field? CCRP Courses provides certification to work in the following roles:
Senior Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
$101,978 on average, from $74K-$121K.
Enhance your expertise as a Senior CRA
with our CRA Certification Course.
Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
$67,532 on average, from $44K-$106K.
Start your career with our CRA Certification Course.
Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC)
$50,451 on average, from $38K-$68K.
Learn more about becoming a CRC with our
Clinical Research Coordinator Course.
Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA)
$45,412 on average, from $31K-$66K.
Explore how to become a CTA with our
Clinical Trials Assistant Training.
$102,283 on average, from $69K-$139K.
Advance your career with our Advanced
Clinical Research Project Manager Certification.
$111,006 on average, from $73K-$136K.
Further your skills with our Advanced Clinical
Research Project Manager Certification.
$116,859 on average, from $108K-$125K.
Deepen your expertise with our Advanced
Clinical Research Project Manager Certification.
$108,250 on average, from $98K-$119K.
Our Clinical Research Coordinator Course
can help you excel in this role.
Associate Clinical Research Director
$136,950 on average, from $116K-$148K.
Develop your leadership skills with our Advanced
Principal Investigator Physician Certification.
The tuition fee is $1,795 ($18 per module) is offered over a 4-month payment plan in this link. The online training can be completed within 1-4 months time and can start within 24 hours of tuition payment. Our courses are ACCRE accredited and curated by field professionals that know what they are doing. Click below to learn more about clinical research positions.
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
CCRPS Clinical Research Certificate Program Overview
This program enables you to master practical aspects of clinical trial conduct and management. For more info read our blog.
The First Step to Clinical Research Certificate Program
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CCRP CRRA Certified Clinical Researcher Associate
This program requires only a medical sciences education background such as FMGs, BSNs, and Bachelors graduates. Clinical Research Associate Training Course is a 110 module course led by Senior CRA and Physician of 25 Years, Dr.Kamal. This course provides the training, experience, interviewing, letter of references, and connections you need to get a job supervising clinical research efforts. We offer clinical research associate training and placement for nurses, science bachelor graduates, and international medical graduates.
For those interested in expanding their knowledge and skills, consider enrolling in the CRA or the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification courses for further specialization.
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SCDM CCDM Certified Clinical Data Manager
Eligibility Requirements
APPLICANTS FOR THE CERTIFIED CLINICAL DATA MANAGER (CCDM™) PROGRAM MUST MEET ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA
Bachelor’s degree or higher and minimum two years full-time CDM experience
Associate’s degree and minimum three years full-time CDM experience
Four or more years full-time CDM experience
Part-time work experience equal to or surpassing full-time equivalent in criteria above
ACRP CCRA Certified Clinical Research Associate
The CCRA® eligibility criteria define the minimum experience required before a CRA can apply for the program. It is important to compare the CRA eligibility criteria with your career and educational experiences to self-determine your eligibility before submitting an application and payment. All applications must undergo a formal review process to determine an applicant’s eligibility to sit for the exam.
CRA Certification Eligibility Requirements
In order to be deemed eligible to take the CCRA® exam, applicants for the CCRA® credential must be able to provide evidence through a job description, detailed CV, or other documentation that they:
Work independently of the investigative staff conducting the research at the site or institution. This means they do not report to the PI or site manager and that they do not have the ability to change or manipulate data, and;
Work on behalf of the sponsor. This means that they are contracted by the “sponsor” to perform an independent monitoring function. The “sponsor” can be a pharmaceutical or device company, a granting agency, a university department, a physician, etc., and;
Perform all of the CCRA® essential duties as detailed below for a required minimum number of hours. Hours performing the CRA essential duties can include hoursdocumented up to the date of the exam and/or through previous employment. The required number of hours is dependent upon one’s educational background.
The CRA Certification Handbook has complete information on eligibility requirements.
ACRP CCRC Certified Clinical Research Coordinator
CRC Certification Eligibility Requirements
In order to be deemed Eligible to take the CCRC® exam, applicants for the CCRC® credential must be able to provide evidence through a job description, detailed CV or other documentation that they:
Perform all of the CRC essential duties as detailed below for a required minimum number of hours.
Hours performing the CRC essential duties can include hours documented up to the date of the exam and/or through previous employment. The required number of hours is dependent upon one’s educational background.
For those pursuing a career as a Clinical Research Coordinator, the Clinical Research Coordinator course provides essential training and certification.
SoCRA CCRP Certified Clinical Research Professional
The applicant must be working with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines under IRB/IEC/REB-approved (or specifically exempted) protocols.
The applicant must meet one of the following Eligibility Criteria noted below. Please note that most candidates will be eligible under Category 1.
For purposes of eligibility, please view SOCRA's definition of a Clinical Research Professional.
If you have a question about Candidate Eligibility please email SOCRA at certification@socra.org
Consider enhancing your understanding of GCP with the ICH-GCP course.
Category 1
Applicant must have (and be able to document) ALL of the following qualifications:
Have two years of experience as a full-time Clinical Research Professional (or have 3,500 hours part-time) during the last five years
Please note: If you have completed two (2) years of full-time employment as a clinical research professional in the past five years, you will NOT need to provide supporting documentation for your educational experience.
Category 2
Applicant must have (and be able to document) ALL of the following qualifications:
Hold a degree in "Clinical Research" from an Associate, Undergraduate, or Graduate Degree Program AND
Have completed a minimum of one year of full-time experience (or 1,750 hours part-time) during the past two years as a Clinical Research Professional
Category 3
Applicant must have (and be able to document) ALL of the following qualifications:
Hold an Undergraduate or Graduate Certificate in “Clinical Research” with a curriculum of no less than 12 semester (credit) hours or totaling a minimum of 144 credit hours from an academic institution of higher learning (community college, college or university) AND
Hold an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in a science, health science, pharmacy or related field AND
Have completed a minimum of one year of full-time experience (or 1750 hours part-time) during the past two years as a Clinical Research Professional.
ACRP CCTI Certified ClinicPrincipal Investigator
The CPI® eligibility criteria define the minimum experience required before a PI can apply for the program. It is important to compare the CPI® eligibility criteria with your experience to self-determine your eligibility before submitting an application and payment. All applications must undergo a formal review process to determine an applicant’s eligibility to sit for the exam.
PI Certification Eligibility Requirements
In order to be deemed eligible to take the CPI® exam, applicants for the CPI® credential must be able to provide evidence through a job description, detailed CV or other documentation that they:
Have a doctorate level degree and;
Have proof of employment as a PI during at least two (2) of the most recent five (5) years and;
Perform all of the essential duties as detailed below.
The PI Certification Handbook has complete employment definitions.
Update: The CPI Exam is the first exam being offered to all investigators with a doctoral-level degree. A license to practice medicine is no longer required.
NAIM CIM Certified IRB Manager
To qualify for the Certified IRB Manager Examination, you must meet the following
requirements:
• Applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years of relevant IRB
Management experience within the last 5 years.
OR
• An Associates Degree from a two year college or technical school and 2 years
of relevant IRB Management experience within the last 5 years.
CCIP CIP Certified IRB Professional
Eligibility Requirements
This certification program is for individuals whose primary job responsibilities include substantial participation in overseeing, administering or performing the daily activities of an IRB as part of a HRPP. Individuals involved in IRB activities who meet the following eligibility requirements are eligible to take the examination:
A Bachelor's degree plus two years of relevant HRPP experience, completed on or before the first day of your chosen testing period (see front cover)
or
Three years of relevant HRPP experience, completed on or before the first day of your chosen testing period
or
Current certification as a CIP
RACC CRA Certified Research Administrator
Bachelor’s Degree and three (3) years of professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization;
OR
An Associate’s Degree and five (5) years of professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization;
OR
No degree and six (6) years of professional experience in research or sponsored programs administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization. *
MAGI CRCP Certified Research Contract Professional
People often ask how to prepare for the exam. Two years of experience with a variety of negotiation partners may be sufficient to pass the exam. A careful reading of MAGI's Model CTA, Clinical Trial Agreement Handbook (Original), and Model CDA is helpful. There are numerous relevant articles in the Journal of Clinical Research Best Practices. Attending MAGI's Clinical Research Conference is good preparation, provided you attend sessions and workshops that address relevant topics where you need more knowledge. Sample questions, study guides, or other study materials are not available. However, imagine an exam for professional chefs. One question might be, "Describe the process of making an omelette." Another might be, "List five spices used in Chinese cuisine." Another might be, "What are the pros and cons of gas vs. electric stoves?"
RAPS RAC Regulatory Affairs Certification
The RAC is the only credential for regulatory professionals in the healthcare product sector. The RAC demonstrates to employers, clients and colleagues essential knowledge, critical thinking abilities and a commitment to continuing professional development. It is designed for working regulatory professionals, with at least three to five years of regulatory experience. There are six different RAC exams. The US, EU and Canada exams test regional regulations and involvement with regulatory bodies. The global exam focuses on international standards and guidelines. The devices and drugs exams have a global focus yet aligns to a specific sector of regulation knowledge. All six exams test for regulatory knowledge, critical thinking and analysis throughout the lifecycle of a product.
SQA RQAP Registered Quality Assurance Professional
The Society of Quality Assurance is proud to offer the professional credential Registered Quality Assurance Professional (RQAP) for professionals working in Good Laboratory Practices as well as for professionals working in Good Clinical Practices. Registration is a recognized standard of experience and knowledge throughout the QA industry, in the US and around the world.
What the credential demonstrates
Proof of your knowledge of the regulations/guidelines and how they are applied
Commitment to a high quality standard in the QA industry
Personal professional growth and achievement
How it Works
Professionals must pass an examination in either Good Laboratory Practices or Good Clinical Practices to receive the RQAP credential.
Registered professionals must re-register every three years by submitting documentation of ongoing professional activities. These activities include, but are not limited to:
Attending the SQA Annual Meeting and/or Quality College
Attending events of SQA Regional Chapters
Attending events of relevant professional associations/societies, e.g. JSQA, RQA, RAPS, DIA, ACS, ACRP, NAICC, AALAS, etc. (See our MOU Organizations and Liaison Organizations.)
Completing courses in the SQA Online Learning Center
Attending SQA webinars or webinars offered by relevant professional organizations
Studying the SQA Annual Meeting Online Library
Participating in the SQA Mentoring Program
Writing test items for an RQAP exam
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