Those working in clinical research are essential to modern medicine and the pharmaceutical industry, as these professionals work to conduct trials to identify the benefits, risks, efficacy and effects of medical product before they are released for use among the general public
Those implementing these studies are often referred to as CRAs, research associates, technicians and coordinators, and are commonly employed in contract research organisations (CROs) or pharmaceutical firms. Job duties include writing and developing trial-related protocols, locating and setting up trial facilities, coordinating with doctors and other medical staff and preparing CRFs (case record forms), among numerous other tasks.
Generally, this position requires official CCRA certification from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals
Annual salaries for people working in this field in the United Kingdom range from £20,000 to £50,000 per year, with recent averages being in the range of £30,000 for those with a few years of experience. Freelance professionals typically see the largest figures.

Clinical Research is related to scientific studies to measure effectiveness, benefits, and risks of medical products. Clinical Research Associates are responsible for monitoring and executing clinical trials for this area. These trials need to be carried out before product launch to avoid bad effects on people’s health. They work for contract research organisations and pharmaceutical companies.

A Clinical Research Associate usually performs many of the following tasks:
• Setting up study centres for industry standards.
• Verifying data.
• Managing regulatory applications and approvals.
• Developing trial protocols.
• Writing reports.

• Having understanding of importance of clinical practise.
• Being diplomatic and confident.
• Having high attention to details.
• Being able to work alone or inside teams.
• Having math skills.
• Having competent IT abilities.
• Being able to motivate others.
• Being well organised.
• Having excellent written and spoken communication.
• Having commercial awareness.

A minimum requirement for Clinical Research jobs is to have a relevant degree for this area. Some of these degrees are pharmacy, biochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, physiology, among others. Degree courses require five GCSE’s (A
*-C) and two A levels as a minimum.

It is recommended to have a postgraduate qualification to increase chances to get a job as a Clinical Research Associate. Among these courses are few diplomas and Masters degrees related to clinical research.