Description

The junior clinical research associates (CRAs) are accountable for the completion of clinical research as well as administrative tasks in their organizations. They are responsible for providing documentation for clinical research, as well. Junior CRAs supervise clinical tasks to ensure proper performance and completeness, analyze the results of clinical studies, and write reports based on their findings. In addition junior CRAs interact with patients, work with other professionals in the field and monitor the functioning of equipment and ensure that they provide the essential maintenance and cleaning for equipment that is not being used. They collect documentation when needed and oversee distribution of inventory, and use computers for data processing and report generation. Others include researching the content of articles as well as performing analyses and extraction of data. In all their tasks junior CRAs must adhere to strict federal and laboratory safety rules, and keep their confidentiality intact and adhere to the standard operating procedures. They must also be able to report their progress to the chief of clinical research within their department.

A bachelor's degree in a similar area is usually the minimum prerequisite for this job; however, further education is sometimes desired or required. Experience in similar roles is required. Junior CRAs must be well-organized and capable of prioritizing research goals. They should have excellent communication and multitasking abilities, and be able to work on their own under minimal supervision.

Roles & Responsibilities

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

  • Assisting in the planning and execution of clinical trials, including recruitment of study participants and organizing study materials.
  • Monitoring and collecting data from clinical trial sites, ensuring compliance with protocols and regulations.
  • Contributing to the preparation of study reports and documentation, including case report forms and study protocols.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as investigators, study coordinators, and regulatory agencies, to facilitate the smooth progress of clinical trials.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) job role, 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.

Essential Skills For Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA)

1

Clinical Research

2

Health Care

3

Medical Technology

Skills That Affect Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Clinical Research

14%

Healthcare Operations

18%

Monitoring Data

19%

Career Prospects

The role of a Junior Clinical Research Associate CRA is vital in the field of clinical research. For individuals with 0-3 years of experience in the United States, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are following options to explore:

  • Clinical Trial Coordinator: In this role, you will assist in the coordination and management of clinical trials, ensuring adherence to protocols, regulatory requirements, and timelines.
  • Data Analyst: A position focused on analyzing and interpreting clinical trial data, providing valuable insights and contributing to the overall research findings.
  • Regulatory Affairs Associate: This role involves ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines, preparing and submitting documentation for approval, and maintaining regulatory records.
  • Quality Control Technician: In this position, you will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the quality of clinical trial processes and data, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures and protocols.

How to Learn

The job role of a Junior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) in the United States is projected to experience significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the employment opportunities for this position are expected to increase substantially. With the continuous advancements in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, the demand for CRAs is also expected to rise. This growth can be attributed to the increasing number of clinical trials and the need for professionals capable of managing and monitoring them. Overall, the future outlook for Junior CRAs in the United States appears promising, with ample employment opportunities expected in the coming years.