How to Start a Career in Clinical Research

If you’re passionate about science and helping others, clinical research could be the ideal field for you!

Clinical research is a branch of medical research that focuses on the study of health and illness in people, with the aims of understanding how to detect, diagnose, treat and prevent disease. This field is incredibly diverse, so you can choose from a wide range of possible career paths, from research assistant to clinical research coordinator to clinical trials manager.

If you want to know how to get started in clinical research, keep reading for our step-by-step guide!

 

Relevant Education

In order to start a career in clinical research, you typically need a relevant graduate or postgraduate degree in a life science field like biology, pharmacology or epidemiology. While a bachelor’s degree may suffice for entry-level positions, a master’s degree or postgraduate certificate in clinical research will open doors to higher-level roles.

You may also want to pursue a certification from a reputable organisation such as the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the main government-funded body for clinical research. Obtaining a certification like this can help to boost your credentials and marketability, increasing your chances of securing a role in clinical research.

 

Experience in a Related Field

Hands-on experience is vital in clinical research. You can gain experience through a number of different routes, but a combination of all kinds of experience is best if you want to succeed in this field.

For example, you can get involved in clinical trials by applying for entry-level roles such as a research coordinator or clinical trial assistant. This will allow you to work alongside experienced clinical researchers in a real-life situation, providing invaluable experience in the field.

You can also gain experience through clinical research internships or volunteer positions at pharmaceutical companies, hospitals or research centres. This will help you improve your practical skills such as study design, data collection and patient recruitment – all crucial areas of most clinical research roles.

 

Other Skills to Develop

Other skills that hiring managers in clinical research will be looking for include:

• Clinical Practice Knowledge

You will want to have a good understanding of the ethical guidelines and practices involved in designing, conducting, recording and reporting clinical trials. This includes an understanding of regulatory requirements, volunteer selection, risk assessments, scientific validity, informed consent and many other crucial elements of clinical research.

• Data Management

You will need to show a proficiency in collecting, analysing and reporting clinical data, as well as a strong attention to detail. This is because trial data is what regulatory authorities will use to approve or reject drugs, so all information must be recorded and reported accurately.

• Knowledge of Emerging Technologies & Drug Developments 

Continual learning about the world of clinical research will also put you in good stead with clinical hiring managers. Try to stay up to date with emerging drug developments and technologies – this will help to demonstrate your passion for the field!

• Excellent Communication 

The ability to effectively communicate with study participants is also paramount, as many clinical research roles involve talking to and educating a wide variety of different people.

 

Persevere with Applications

Once you have the necessary education, skills and experience, you can start applying for entry-level clinical research positions!

This field can be highly competitive, so persevere with your applications and try to apply to a variety of roles at different facilities. Attending conferences and workshops can also help you to build connections and better your chances of securing a role.

A career in clinical research is incredibly rewarding and offers you the chance to contribute to life-changing advancements in healthcare. By following these steps – pursuing relevant education, experience and skill development – you can set yourself up for an impactful and successful career in this dynamic field!