What Is a Clinical Research Associate?
A clinical research associate performs many activities related to medical research, particularly clinical trials. Clinical research associates work for many different types of companies, organizations and agencies. There are several education requirements to become a clinical research associate, and the career requires that you have a wide range of skills. There are many considerations if you would like to become a clinical research associate.
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Function
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A clinical research associate's primary function is to monitor all kinds of clinical trials. Clinical research associates can work directly with a sponsoring company, as independent contractors (freelancers) or for contract research organizations. A clinical research associate makes on-site visits, views case report forms, communicates with clinical research investigators, checks clinical site activities and makes sure clinical trials comply with the standard trial procedures.
Types
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Clinical research associates can work for biotechnology firms, medical research universities, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations and government agencies. Larger organizations have different levels of clinical research associate positions that range from entry level to management roles.
Education
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A clinical research associate typically has a bachelor's or master's degree in the health or life sciences field. Some clinical research associates have RN (registered nurse) degrees. At least two years of experience in nursing, medical or pharmaceutical research is required to become a clinical research associate. Most associates are officially certified by a society for clinical research associates.
Skills
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A clinical research associate must understand arithmetic, geometry, algebra, statistics and calculus, as well as how to apply these subjects. You must be able to use scientific methods and rules to solve problems. An awareness and understanding of the implications of the latest scientific information for current and future clinical work is essential for all clinical research associates. Clinical research associates must also be able to read, speak and teach others effectively.
Considerations
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If you are interested in becoming a clinical research associate, consider joining a society for clinical research associates. Membership in a society will enable you to network and understand the roles of clinical research. You can attend educational programs, including introductory workshops for those new to the field. Subscribe to an online clinical trials magazine or journal to learn more about the field, including possible career opportunities. If you have completed the educational requirements for a clinical research associate, take a certification exam to qualify for more jobs.
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