Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA)

Junior clinical research associates (CRAs) are responsible for completing clinical research and administrative tasks for their organization. They are in charge of facilitating documentation for clinical research as well. Junior CRAs monitor clinical tasks for correct functioning and completion, evaluate clinical data, and create reports based on findings. Additionally, junior CRAs interact with subjects, collaborate with other clinical professionals, monitor equipments' functioning, and provide necessary cleaning and maintenance for equipment when not in use. They gather documentation as needed and manage inventory distribution, as well as use a computer for data processing and report creation. Other tasks include researching article content and conducting data extraction and analysis. In all tasks, junior CRAs must follow strict laboratory and federal safety regulations, as well as maintain confidentiality and follow standard operating procedures. They also must report their progress to the clinical research leader in their department.A bachelor's degree in a related field is generally the minimum educational requirement for this role; additional education may be required or preferred. Previous experience in a similar capacity is also necessary. Junior CRAs should be organized individuals that are able to prioritize assigned research objectives. They must have strong multitasking and communication skills, and they must be able to work independently with minimal supervision.

As a Junior Clinical Research Associate CRA with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the coordination and management of clinical trials, including participant recruitment and enrollment. You will support the overall planning and execution of clinical trials, ensuring adherence to protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Collecting and organizing data from clinical trial sites, ensuring accuracy and completeness. You will contribute to data collection, entry, and verification processes, maintaining documentation and records for analysis.
• Conducting site visits and monitoring activities to ensure compliance with protocols and Good Clinical Practice GCP guidelines. You will participate in site monitoring visits, performing source data verification and resolving queries to ensure trial integrity.
• Assisting in the preparation and review of study documentation, including informed consent forms and study protocols.

For a Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA), the following qualifications are required:

• A Junior CRA should have a working knowledge of the fundamentals of clinical research, including study protocols, regulatory requirements, and good clinical practice (GCP) guidelines. This understanding is crucial for ensuring compliance and maintaining the integrity of clinical trials.
• Clinical trials involve handling large amounts of data, documentation, and patient information. A Junior CRA must demonstrate meticulousness in reviewing and verifying data to ensure its completeness and accuracy for analysis and reporting purposes.
• Effective communication is essential in clinical research to liaise with study sponsors, investigators, and study site personnel. The ability to clearly articulate information, actively listen, and collaborate with others is critical for ensuring smooth operations and resolving any issues or queries that may arise during the study.
• Clinical research involves managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities.

The role of a Junior Clinical Research Associate CRA is an important position in the field of clinical research. For individuals with 0-3 years of work experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are four options to explore:

• Clinical Data Coordinator: A role that involves managing and analyzing clinical trial data, ensuring data accuracy and adherence to protocols.
• Research Assistant: A position focused on supporting research activities, including data collection, participant recruitment, and study coordination.
• Regulatory Affairs Associate: A role that involves ensuring compliance with regulations and guidelines in the conduct of clinical trials, preparing regulatory submissions, and maintaining documentation.
• Quality Assurance Associate: A position focused on ensuring adherence to quality standards and regulations in clinical research, conducting audits, and implementing quality improvement processes.

The job role of a Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in Canada is expected to have significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis from Google, there is an increasing demand for professionals in this field. The employment opportunities for Junior CRAs are projected to grow steadily in the coming years. This growth is driven by factors such as the expansion of the pharmaceutical industry, advancements in medical research, and the need for more clinical trials. The future looks promising for aspiring Junior CRAs, with a rising number of job opportunities in this field.