Clinical Research Associate Job Description

What is a Clinical Research Associate?

Clinical Research Associate (CRAs) are responsible for coordinating and overseeing the execution of studies and clinical trials. They have a hand in everything from recruiting study participants to creating study documentation, collecting patient data, and performing quality assurance audits to ensure study protocols are being followed. CRAs usually work for pharmaceutical companies, hospital research departments, or clinical contract agencies.

A bachelor's degree in nursing or a related health science concentration is typically required for this position. This requirement may occasionally be waived if a candidate has had significant prior experience working in a clinical environment. For success as a Clinical Research Associate, candidates should possess superior organization skills, strong attention to detail, and excellent analytical thinking skills.

Clinical Research Associate Job Description Template

Job Overview

Here at XYZ Inc., we are the leading company in our industry in the Capital City area. We're pleased to have a 3.8 Glassdoor rating from our employees. We are hiring an experienced Clinical Research Associate to help us keep growing. If you're dedicated and ambitious, XYZ Inc. is an excellent place to grow your career. Don't hesitate to apply.

Responsibilities for Clinical Research Associate

  • Recruit and enroll study participants
  • Input clinical research data into electronic data systems
  • Coordinate patient visits and procedures related to research
  • Act as resource for study participants by answering questions and explaining related procedures
  • Ensure the study site is compliance with all local and federal laws and regulations
  • Monitor study sites and activities to ensure the the appropriate industry protocols and terms of the study are being followed
  • Oversee the hiring and training of staff members who are working on the study
  • Create thorough documentation of study protocol and update it as needed

Qualifications for Clinical Research Associate

  • 2+ years of prior clinical research experience
  • Must possess superior analytical and creative thinking skills
  • Excellent attention to detail and the ability to keep detailed, accurate records
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Understanding of laboratory procedures and equipment
  • Advanced organizational and planning skills
  • Proficiency in MS Word and Excel programs
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be fluent in English and posses solid writing abilities

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Employers: How to Write Great Job Descriptions

  • Be sure to mention requisite years of experience and educational requirements
  • Tell job seekers what's unique about your company and job
  • Ideal length is a few paragraphs or about 200 words
  • Make sure to use appropriate paragraph breaks and bullet points so it’s easy on the eyes
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