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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