Want to work in clinical research but unsure how to become a clinical research coordinator? This guide will help you understand what clinical research coordinators do and what skills they need. You’ll also find information on how to get started, salary expectations, and strategies for breaking into the industry.
What Does an Entry-Level Clinical Research Coordinator Do?
An entry-level clinical research coordinator (CRC) oversees clinical trials. Your duties as an entry-level coordinator depend on the type of research involved in the project and the needs of your employer; you may recruit patients for studies and coordinate with researchers to ensure they collect the right data during the trial and abide by all relevant regulations.
An entry-level coordinator may focus on one aspect of the project, such as obtaining informed consent from participants or ensuring that data meets FDA requirements. As an entry-level employee, you work under senior project management staff who approve your plans or budgets before the trial begins.
How to Get an Entry-Level Clinical Research Coordinator Job
To get an entry-level clinical research coordinator position, you need a degree, analytical and planning skills, and the ability to communicate well with both researchers and trial participants. Employers expect educational qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree in life science, chemistry, or a healthcare-related field. Depending on their specific needs, some companies prefer coordinators who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a nursing license. As an entry-level professional, you often need to accept an assistant clinical research coordinator role while you learn to handle the responsibilities of the position.
