Let’s start with the basics:
What is Clinical research?
It is the study of human health and illness. This is the way one can learn to prevent, diagnose and treat illness/diseases. This medicine research describes many different elements of scientific research.
A person who practices in trials and studies is usually called a clinical research volunteer.
This field of research is generally divided into two types:
1) Observational studies:
These trials do investigate or their effects on diseases/ illness in humans. Examiners participate in observing trial participants by monitoring their health over a period of time and collecting relevant data.
2) Interventional studies:
These studies provide the scientific validity of the effectiveness and health of an innovative , a new warning device or a new organization in the context of a disease or illness. These preclinical or interventional studies are mandatory steps in turning a new molecule into an innovative or other newly discovered device for observation.
Apart from these studies; epidemiology, physiology and pathophysiology, medical services, education, outcomes and mental health studies, may come under the umbrella of clinical research.
The main components of the clinical research courses are:
1) Research and distribution of .
2) Manufacture and management of medicines and new medicines.
3) Determination of the appropriate dose of for various diseases.
4) To study the effects of the on the body.
5) Advance research-related areas such as data management, analysis, biostatistics and epidemiology.
As CR coordinators, these professionals are obliged to carry out clinical studies on selected human samples. Assistance is also needed with ongoing research and testing interactions during the testing phase.
Thus, they need to acquire precise skills-set such as:
1) To be an attentive observer with an eye for details.
2) Constructive influencing and communication skills.
3) Treat participants rightfully and with respect.
4) Get informed consent before starting the operation.
5) Observe key elements and record any method changes.
6) Clear documentation of the entire process.
7) Coordination with doctors and senior team members
8) Understand and follow the rules of clinical trials in the workplace.
9) Ability to multitask and think on your own.
10) Ability to motivate others.
India has become a successful country in Clinical Research training over the past few years and will certainly one day become its main hub. The billion dollar industry has a growing need for qualified specialists, which is why the need for specialists in clinical research in this area is growing rapidly.
Qualifications:
To become a CRA, you must have a postgraduate or master’s degree in any of the following areas:
1) Clinical Research
2) Microbiology
3) Genetics
4) Pharmacology
5) Immunology
6) Anatomy
7) Toxicology
8) Physiology
Given here is the required technical know-how, because finding a job without a degree is a major challenge in the job procedure.
Initial experience in clinical trials, such as a doctorate in clinical research or a related field, is a great asset. Earning a CRA certification also helps with applying for managerial positions.
It offers exciting career opportunities with plenty of room for professional growth. Below are the various career opportunities a person has after completing a clinical research course. To get a job like one of the following, you must have at least basic clinical research education and skills.
According to the skills mentioned above typical career opportunities in CR are as follows:-
1) Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
2) Clinical Research Investigator/ Physician
3) Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC)
4) Clinical Research Managers (CRM)
5) Clinical Data Manager
6) Clinical Research Data Specialist
7) Pharmacovigilance Manager
8) Biostatisticians
A clinical researcher can work at different positions in an association depending on their experience and expertise. Inexperienced employees or newcomers can start as Clinical Research representative and then level up to a CRA role.
The day-to-day activities and responsibilities of a Clinical Researcher can vary from company to company, especially in the private sector.
What is the salary and demand for clinical research?
1) According to Pay scale, the average CRA salary in India is 3-4 lakhs.
2) Fresher’s can expect up to 2-3 lakhs on average.
3) Well- Experienced ones can expect on about 6-7 lakhs
CR wages are very competitive and depend on a number of variables including job title, experience level, employer, and location.
Clinical Researchers are expected to have knowledge and skills of ICH-GCP guidelines, standard SOPs, complete CTM documentation.
In the current scenario, clinical research is one of the most emerging and in-demand scientific fields that requires very dedicated and determined professional.
Therefore, clinical research is an attractive career opportunity for outstanding and talented graduates in the natural sciences – especially those with degrees in sciences, biomedicine, nursing or pharmacy.
Hence, advance and take the next step in your CR training as there are various opportunities that would enhance your career as a Clinical Researcher.
