Factors for Successful Clinical Research Associate Performance
If you’re looking to enter the medical field, the role of a clinical research associate may be one that piques your interest. This position requires both technical and interpersonal skills and can provide an exciting career path for those interested in healthcare research. Let’s take a look at what exactly a CRA does and how to become one.
What Does A Clinical Research Associate Do?
The primary job of a CRA is to monitor clinical trials to ensure that they are conducted according to protocol, standards, regulations, and ethical guidelines set by organizations such as the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA). They are responsible for supervising all aspects of a clinical trial, from recruitment of participants to data collection and analysis.
In addition, they must ensure that the safety and rights of trial participants are protected throughout the study. They also regularly inspect research sites to check on compliance with clinical trial protocols and report any issues or violations to their superiors. Additionally, CRAs often serve as liaisons between research sponsors and investigative sites, ensuring proper communication and coordination during the course of a study. Finally, they also help to prepare regulatory submissions, documentations and evaluations regarding clinical trials.
A CRA works in close collaboration with other members of the research team, including physicians, nurses, statisticians, and laboratory technicians. In addition to monitoring clinical trials, CRAs also create study documentation such as informed consent forms and investigator brochures; review patient charts; analyze data; and report progress or problems with the study back to their employer or sponsor. They must also keep detailed records of their activities throughout the course of each trial.
How to Become a Clinical Research Associate
The first step in becoming a CRA is completing at least an undergraduate degree in science-related fields such as biology or chemistry. Those who possess higher degrees will have better chances of landing a job as a CRA since employers usually prefer candidates with more advanced training. In addition, having completed courses related to clinical research such as biostatistics or ethics can give you an edge over other applicants vying for positions as CRAs.
Most employers also require that prospective CRAs have experience working in healthcare settings prior to taking on this role. Working as lab technicians or even volunteering at hospitals can help build your skill set and make you more attractive applicants when seeking employment as CRAs. Additionally, obtaining certification through organizations like ACRP (Association of Clinical Research Professionals) can improve your prospects significantly when it comes time for hiring CRAs.
Overall, becoming a clinical research associate can be an exciting career path for those interested in contributing valuable data towards medical breakthroughs while getting paid for doing so! With proper educational qualifications and experience working in healthcare settings prior to taking on this role, you will be well-positioned to land jobs as clinical research associates. Don’t forget that obtaining certification through organizations like ACRP can also improve your chances significantly!
