The Life of a Clinical Research Associate

A clinical research associate works in the pharmaceutical or medical industry. This professional oversees research studies and trials related to drug development and medical research to ensure the studies adhere to strict policies and regulations of federal agencies.

Geography

In most cases, a clinical research associate spends the majority of time traveling to each medical facility participating in studies or trials to monitor their activities. Many of these professionals travel 50 to 90 percent of the time to oversee studies and trials.

Documentation and Correspondence

These professionals maintain required clinical documentation, compile reports and prepare correspondence and recruitment information for the medical staff and participants of the research trials or studies.

Considerations/Benefits

This occupation often requires extensive travel and long work hours, although most organizations who employ clinical research associates offer extensive training, as well as above-average starting wages and benefits for those with a bachelor's degree in life sciences, nursing or a related discipline. In August 2010, CBSalary listed a national average salary of $52,226 per year for this occupation.

References

• Pharmaceutical Product Development, Inc.: Clinical Research Associate
• CBSalary: Clinical Research Associate Salary