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Clinical Research Associate Salary - What's the pay for a clinic research associate?

Here's What You Need to Know to Get a Clinical Research Associate Job

What's the pay for a Clinical Research Associate?: $61-$110K

What's the pay for a Clinical Research Associate?: $61-$110K
A Clinical Research Associate (or Monitor) is hired either in-house (“the trial site”) or externally (by the sponsor or CRO) to review clinical trial data and ensure that investigational therapies are tested ethically and scientifically through performing site visits that review files like patient medical notes in order to ensure quality of trial data. The catch 22 of clinical research associate jobs is that the ICH GCP guidelines require both education AND experience in order to work in this role, so getting your foot in the door is tough. Once you get experience, your education (i.e., certifications or degrees showing understanding of additional responsibilities) can help promotes you quickly through the CRA career ladder. For those looking to understand more about these guidelines, the ICH-GCP course might be a crucial step.

How to become or get promoted as a clinical research associate?

Having a certification through CCRPS’s accredited Advanced Clinical Research Associate Certification (CRA) course can help professionals 1) get promoted 2) get a raise 3) improve efficiency 4) get hired as a Clinical Research Associate. Additionally, those interested in broader roles in clinical research may consider the Clinical Research Coordinator course, the Pharmacovigilance Certification, or the Clinical Trials Assistant Training.

How much does a Clinical Research Associate make in the United States?

The average Clinical Research Associate salary in the United States is $61-110K. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. For those looking at a leadership role, the Advanced Clinical Research Project Manager Certification or the Advanced Principal Investigator Physician Certification could be relevant. Furthermore, the Medical Monitor Certification can enhance skills for those specifically interested in medical monitoring aspects.

Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salary

Per Payscale “An entry-level Clinical Research Associate (CRA) with less than 1 year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $55,588 based on 203 salaries. An early career Clinical Research Associate (CRA) with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $66,245 based on 1,118 salaries. A mid-career Clinical Research Associate (CRA) with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $76,086 based on 294 salaries. An experienced Clinical Research Associate (CRA) with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $81,540 based on 157 salaries. In their late career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of $83,342.”

Determine CRA Salary by location using Payscale

CRA Career Progression - Indeed

CRA Career Progression - Indeed

Salary: Clinical Research Associate

Research Associate Salary resource: Click here to see the CRA Salary Range from 1,800+ employers

Clinical Research Associates Pay: Clinical Research Associate Salary in United States (by city)

  1. Durham, NC - $97K

  2. New York, NY, Irvine, CA, Houston, TX - $95K

  3. Philadelphia, PA - $92K

  4. Atlanta, GA - $84K

  5. Raleigh, NC - $82K

  6. Chicago, IL - $79K

Payscale: CRA Career Pathway

Payscale: CRA Career Pathway

Senior Clinical Research Associate Salary

The average salary of a Senior Senior Clinical Research Associate is ~105K per year ($54/hour, $2k/week, $9k/month). This can range from $81k to $139k.

Glassdoor Salary range for Senior CRAs

Glassdoor Salary range for Senior CRAs

Starting Salary of a Clinical Research Associate Position is between $60,000 and $65,000

Some employers may prefer hiring entry-level clinical research associates with less experience in clinical research so they can learn their job functions by training under Senior CRAs or CRA IIs.

Clinical Research Associate II Salary is $86,677 / yr

CRA II @ PPD: $84,733/yr

CRA II @ PRA Health Sciences: $96,017/yr

CRA II @ IQVIA: $79,412/yr

CRA II @ ICON: $100,000/yr

Comment below how much you get paid and what helped you get promoted!

Having a certification through CCRPS’s accredited Advanced Clinical Research Associate Certification course can help professionals 1) get promoted 2) get a raise 3) improve efficiency 4) get hired as a Clinical Research Associate.

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CRA, International Guest User CRA, International Guest User

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

Getting Started in Clinical Trials

Advanced Clinical Research Careers

Email us for more information on finding the perfect program to launch your exciting career in Clinical Research!

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