What does a Clinical Research Associate do?
Published 4 min read
A clinical research associate (CRA) is a professional who monitors and manages clinical trials. CRAs are typically employed by pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), and academic institutions.
Clinical Research Associate job duties include:
- Design and implement clinical research protocols
- Obtain IRB approval for clinical research studies
- Recruit and screen participants for clinical research studies
- Conduct clinical research studies in accordance with approved protocols
- Collect and manage data from clinical research studies
- Monitor participant safety during clinical research studies
- Close out clinical research studies in a timely manner
- Prepare and submit reports to sponsors and/or regulatory agencies
- Present results of clinical research studies at scientific meetings
Clinical Research Associate Job Requirements
A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is a professional who monitors and manages clinical trials. CRAs are typically employed by pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, or academic medical centers. They may also be self-employed. The job requires a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, although a master’s degree or higher is preferred. In addition, CRAs must be certified by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA). Experience in the field is also required, and most CRAs have at least five years of experience.
Clinical Research Associate Skills
- Clinical research
- Good communication skills
- Organizational skills
- Writing skills
- Computer skills
- Detail oriented
- Ability to work independently
- Time management skills
- Problem solving skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Interpersonal skills
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How to become a Clinical Research Associate
A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is a professional who monitors and manages clinical trials. CRAs are responsible for ensuring that trials are conducted according to the protocol and that they meet all applicable regulations. They also work closely with investigators to ensure that the trial is conducted safely and efficiently.
Becoming a CRA requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, although many CRAs have advanced degrees. In addition, CRAs must have strong communication and organizational skills and be able to work independently. They must also be detail-oriented and able to maintain accurate records.
There are several ways to become a CRA. Many CRAs start their careers as research coordinators or research nurses. Others may have experience working in the pharmaceutical industry or in regulatory affairs. Some CRAs may also have previous experience working in clinical research as study coordinators or project managers.
The best way to become a CRA is to get experience working in clinical research. There are many ways to do this, including volunteering, working as a research assistant, or participating in a clinical trial as a patient or healthy volunteer. Working as a CRA is a demanding job, but it can be very rewarding. Those who are successful in this career help bring new treatments and cures to patients who need them.
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