How to Become a Clinical Programmer
A clinical programmer works with the entire clinical research team to design and manage databases, as well as to collect and analyze data obtained from clinical research. Since a clinical programmers are essentially computer programmers, they must have strong backgrounds in writing code in order to report and validate data. These programmers must also have a degree in Science from an recognized higher education institute. Launch your own career by learning how to become a clinical programmer.
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Things You'll Need
- Bachelors level of degree in science or equivalent
- Programming experience
Instructions
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Earn your 4-year degree to become a clinical programmer. Acceptable degrees at the Bachelor's level include those in the Life Sciences, Information Systems, Pharmacology or Nursing.
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Expect to have at least 2 years of pharmaceutical programming in a clinical research environment before you can become a clinical programmer. However, a lack of practical experience can sometimes be compensated for if you have training in database programming and possess an advanced degree, such as a Masters in a science-related discipline.
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Qualify to become a clinical programmer by demonstrating a solid working knowledge of Oracle Clinical database programming (PL/SQL), as well as related query tools and add-ons, such as Oracle Discover or Integrated Review.
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Present a professional demeanor and exemplary communication skills when you interview to become a clinical programmer. This is important to a potential employer, since you will be required to facilitate the flow of information and ensure its validation between several layers of the clinical research team.
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Search for available openings to become a clinical programmer from an online job database such as BioHealthmatics.com or Monster (see Resources below).
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Consider working with a professional recruiter to help find you a placement as a clinical programmer. The LabRat.com website contains a list of recruiters who specialize in "head-hunting" for the biotechnology industry (see Resources below). You may search for a recruiting agency by name or by location.
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Tips & Warnings
It is not uncommon for a clinical programmer to be required to spend long hours, including nights and weekends, troubleshooting database errors or inconsistencies.
Like other people who spend the majority of their time involved in repetitive motion and deskwork, clinical programmers may be affected by back, neck and eye strain, or even carpal tunnel syndrome.
