clinical research assistant job description

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description, Key Duties and Responsibilities

This post presents detailed information on the clinical research assistant job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform.

It also highlights the important requirements you may be asked to fulfill to be hired for the clinical research assistant role by most recruiter/employer.

What Does a Clinical Research Assistant Do?

A clinical research assistant, CRA, is responsible for providing quality patient care and service to the clinical research clients and the healthcare providers.

The clinical research assistant job description involves working closely with doctors, nurses, and other technicians in performing clinical and laboratory procedures.

It also entails conducting pre-study testing in accordance with protocols.

Clinical research assistants also document results of testing in a medical record of the assigned patient and notify medical staff, X-ray technicians, lab personnel, or nursing staff immediately if there is any unexpected result discovered during their daily duties.

They provide technical expertise by maintaining a professional attitude towards clients and all healthcare providers within their scope of practice in accordance to guidelines, regulations, programs of care (POC) and established business practices.

It is also their responsibility to provide regular reports on patients’ condition, including vital signs and symptoms.

They collect and record data in compliance with regulatory requirements and ensure that data is stored and maintained in a secure location at the site of care.

Clinical research assistants create records by documenting their various activities throughout the day, which requires medical terminology to describe findings or procedures performed during the day on patients of all ages or illnesses.

They maintain records of patient care, procedures, and treatments to ensure accuracy, as well as provide a record for future reference.

CRAs ensure that all patient records are maintained in a secure location and in accordance to HIPAA policies and guidelines.

One of their duties involve assisting patients by providing or arranging transportation, such as ambulances or wheelchairs; helping them with eating or drinking; providing comfort measures, medication reminders and information on medical insurance coverage.

Clinical research assistants work closely with staff as they develop and implement a plan to meet the study’s objectives and goals.

Providing a variety of services to staff and ancillary departments, such as food service, laundry, housekeeping and security departments is also part of their duties.

The clinical research assistant work description may entail maintaining records of findings or procedures performed during studies at all times.

It also involves maintaining regulatory compliance by following government regulations, research protocols, and business practices to ensure that the organization is operating in accordance with current industry standards.

Clinical research assistants work in accordance with the policies of the facility where they are employed and will ensure that those policies are adhered to at all times.

They assist clinical laboratory staff in performing tests and procedures, such as taking blood, drawing blood, processing blood, and providing other lab services.

Attending scheduled training seminars, workshops, and other educational courses is a part of their tasks.

Clinical research assistants must maintain a professional attitude at all times and conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the standards of the medical industry.

They provide high quality patient care and service to the clinical research clients and healthcare providers.

It is their duty to ensure that all patient records are maintained to ensure accuracy and provide a record for future reference.

They work closely with the physicians, nurses, other technicians and patients in performing clinical and laboratory procedures.

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description Sample/Example/Template

The clinical research assistant job description consists of the following duties, tasks, and responsibilities:

• Conducts patient evaluation
• Organizes patient visits
• Provides patient care in a variety of settings (e.g., physician office, university clinic, hospital)
• Performs demographic and physical assessments of patients
• Provides patient education
• Collaborates with other clinical research assistants and staff within the department
• Collects data for study protocols
• Maintains medical records
• Conducts quality review of medical records and research data
• Provides study-related information to patients during research studies
• Prepares patients for procedures/treatments
• Prepares study-related materials using laboratory equipment (e.g., blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, and otoscope)
• Takes blood samples from patients for testing (e.g., EKG, x-rays, laboratory tests)
• Collects specimens (e.g., urine samples) from patients for testing (e.g., urine test)
• Supports other clinical research assistants
• Documents observations and information generated during patient care
• Performs clerical tasks (e.g., data entry, typing, etc.)
• Continues health education with patients
• Assists nurses in the clinic setting or on hospital units as needed for a variety of tasks (e.g., patient care, record keeping).

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description for Resume

If you have worked before as a clinical research assistant or are presently working in that role and are making a resume or CV for a new job, you can make the Professional Experience section for the resume by applying the sample clinical research assistant job description provided above.

You can express the duties and responsibilities you have performed as a clinical research assistant or are presently carrying out by applying the ones provided in the above clinical research assistant job description template.

This can easily convince the employer/recruiter that you have been effective on the clinical research assistant job, which can greatly influence them to grant you an interview and hire you for the job that you are seeking, especially if it requires having some clinical research assistant work experience.  

Clinical Research Assistant Requirements: Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success

Here are important requirements you may be expected to meet to be hired by most employers/recruiters for the clinical research assistant role:

• Good oral and written communication skills
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Supervisory capacity and ability to take direction from superiors
• Computer literacy in working with Excel and Word
• Basic mathematics, typing, and computer knowledge
• Ability to pay attention to details in work environment (e.g., accuracy of data collection)
• Travel required throughout the country
• Bachelor’s degree in medical field (e.g., medicine, nursing, public health)
• License to practice in the state of employment (e.g., state of Florida)
• Ability to communicate and relate effectively with co-workers and patients
• Valid driver’s license
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work full time, holidays, and overtime when needed.

Clinical Research Assistants Salary

According to Glassdoor, the national average compensation for a clinical research assistant in the United States is $41,677 per year.

The role of the CRA offers a person with an interest in scientific research and patient care a unique opportunity for employment.

Clinical research assistants are an integral part of the process that moves medical discoveries from research to application with patients.

The clinical research assistant also provides highly skilled professional service to clients and healthcare providers.

This post is useful to individuals who are interested in the clinical research assistant career.

They will be able to learn all they need to know about the duties and responsibilities of the job and so be able to decide if it’s the right career for them.

It is also helpful to recruiters/employers in making a detailed job description for the clinical research assistant position in their organizations for use in hiring for the role.

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Clinical Research Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the evolving landscape of healthcare, the importance of Clinical Research Assistants is more pronounced than ever.

As we advance in medical science, there is an escalating demand for diligent individuals who can aid, progress and protect our research endeavors in the clinical field.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Clinical Research Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of clinical research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Clinical Research Assistant job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Clinical Research Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Research Assistants play a crucial role in clinical trials, undertaking tasks that contribute to the overall execution and success of the research.

They work closely with the clinical research coordinators and investigators in conducting studies.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assist in the design, preparation and coordination of research projects and clinical trials
• Collect, process, and maintain research data and patient information, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with ethical standards
• Perform administrative tasks such as preparing and maintaining forms and documents including consent forms, case report forms, and regulatory documents
• Conduct literature reviews and assist in the preparation of research protocols, manuscripts, and presentations
• Assist in patient recruitment and follow-ups, schedule appointments and coordinate with clinical staff
• Perform basic medical tests under supervision, such as taking blood samples, and ensure that all samples are properly labeled and stored
• Ensure all research is conducted in accordance with the protocol, standard operating procedures, good clinical practice and the applicable regulatory requirements
• Help prepare for audits and respond to audit findings
• Maintain research-related inventory and order supplies as needed

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description Template

We are seeking a dedicated Clinical Research Assistant to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for assisting with the planning and execution of clinical trials, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining accurate records.

A strong understanding of medical terminology, good organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are key to succeeding in this role.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, administration, and monitoring of clinical trials.
• Analyze and evaluate clinical data gathered during research.
• Ensure compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives.
• Prepare and present detailed reports on the progress of ongoing research.
• Assist in the preparation of manuscripts for publication.
• Participate in the design of experiments or field work.
• Ensure all research is compliant with necessary protocols and regulations.
• Assist in the creation and maintenance of databases for data entry.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure trials remain on schedule.

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Clinical Research Assistant or similar role.
• Knowledge of the principles and procedures of clinical research.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and communicate scientific data.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).
• Strong critical and analytical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• BSc degree in Life Sciences or related field.
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

Additional Information

• Job Title: Clinical Research Assistant
• Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based but may require some travel for meetings and site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Research Coordinator or Clinical Research Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Clinical Research Assistant Do?

Clinical Research Assistants work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and universities.

Their main responsibility is to assist with conducting clinical trials, research studies, and experiments.

They work under the supervision of Clinical Research Coordinators or Principal Investigators and are responsible for tasks such as data collection, patient recruitment, and maintaining research databases.

Their job involves preparing and organizing study materials, such as consent forms, questionnaires, and instructions.

They may also be involved in the informed consent process, explaining study objectives, risks, and benefits to potential participants.

Clinical Research Assistants also play a crucial role in collecting and processing samples, such as blood or tissue, and recording data accurately and efficiently.

They must also ensure adherence to good clinical practices and regulatory guidelines to ensure the integrity of the study and the safety of the study participants.

In some instances, they may also assist with data analysis and contribute to the preparation of research reports or scientific publications.

Clinical Research Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Clinical Research Assistant should have qualifications and skills that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong knowledge of clinical research principles, guidelines, and regulations to ensure compliance in all research activities.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills for managing multiple projects, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring data integrity.
• Proficiency in using medical and research software for data entry, analysis and report generation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for interaction with research participants, healthcare professionals, and members of the research team.
• Interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients and research subjects, ensuring their comfort and cooperation during research studies.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues that may impact research outcomes or violate research protocols.
• Physical stamina for long hours of work, often on their feet, and the ability to handle potentially stressful situations.
• Experience or training in medical terminology, patient care, or a related field to understand and interpret clinical data and interact effectively with healthcare professionals.

Clinical Research Assistant Experience Requirements

Candidates for a Clinical Research Assistant position are typically expected to have at least 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, often acquired through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in clinical research settings.

These roles could include Clinical Research Intern, Data Entry Clerk in a medical setting, Medical Scribe, or Clinical Laboratory Assistant.

In these positions, aspiring Clinical Research Assistants can gain hands-on experience with tasks like data collection, patient interactions, research protocol adherence, and administrative duties.

Candidates with more than 2 to 3 years of experience in these or similar roles may have developed specialized skills or knowledge in certain areas of clinical research.

They may be accustomed to handling more responsibilities, including managing smaller projects or assisting with the coordination of research studies.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience may have had the opportunity to lead or supervise a small research team, manage multiple projects simultaneously, or collaborate closely with senior researchers or clinicians.

These individuals may be ready for a more senior or managerial role within the field of clinical research.

Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or PhD, while not always a requirement, can often compensate for the lack of work experience, especially in roles that involve more sophisticated research procedures or data analysis tasks.

Clinical Research Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Clinical Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a life science, nursing, or a related field.

They must have knowledge of clinical research protocols and principles along with an understanding of medical terminology.

Some positions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in a relevant field such as clinical research, biotechnology, or public health.

Clinical Research Assistants are expected to be familiar with data collection methods, regulatory guidelines and patient care procedures.

There are also certain certifications like Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) or Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) that can enhance a candidate’s profile.

Continuing education is crucial in this field to stay updated with the latest research methodologies and regulatory changes.

Some employers may also require Clinical Research Assistants to have basic CPR or ACLS certification for emergency situations.

Experience in a clinical or research setting, while not always a requirement, can also be beneficial.

Overall, they should possess strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills, along with a keen eye for detail.

Clinical Research Assistant Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Clinical Research Assistant is $44,905 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary widely based on the individual’s experience, educational qualifications, location, and the organization they work for.

Additionally, certain specialized skills may also contribute to higher pay in this role.

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a clinical research assistant need.

Clinical Research Assistants should have excellent attention to detail, as their work often involves collecting and analyzing complex data.

They should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to work efficiently with other research staff and interact with participants.

They must also have good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

Knowledge of clinical practices, data management and basic statistical analysis is also beneficial.

Do Clinical Research Assistants need a degree?

Most Clinical Research Assistant roles require a bachelor’s degree in a life science or health-related field.

Some positions may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or significant work experience.

It’s also beneficial to have knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and the regulations that govern clinical research.

What should you look for in a Clinical Research Assistant resume?

A Clinical Research Assistant resume should demonstrate a strong background in life sciences or health care.

Look for experience in clinical research, data management, and compliance with research regulations.

Skills in data analysis, clinical protocol development, and patient interaction are also beneficial.

Certifications, such as a Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) or similar, can also be a plus.

What qualities make a good Clinical Research Assistant?

A good Clinical Research Assistant is detail-oriented and has a strong understanding of scientific research methods.

They should be able to multitask, manage their time effectively, and work independently.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are essential for coordinating with other team members and interacting with study participants.

Integrity and a commitment to ethical practices are also vital in this role.

What are the daily duties of a Clinical Research Assistant?

A Clinical Research Assistant typically starts their day by reviewing the tasks and deadlines for ongoing studies.

They may spend a significant part of their day collecting, processing, and managing patient data.

They may also prepare materials for research studies, interact with study participants, and assist in the development of research protocols.

They often work closely with other team members to ensure the smooth running of clinical trials.

So there you have it.

Today, we pulled back the veil on what it truly means to be a clinical research assistant .

And guess what?

It’s not just about collecting data.

It’s about paving the way to medical breakthroughs, one research study at a time.

With our handy clinical research assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go even further with our job description generator . It’s your ultimate guide to creating pinpoint-accurate listings or meticulously fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Every research data point contributes to a larger discovery.

Let’s make those breakthroughs. Together.

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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What is a Clinical Research Assistant ?

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Clinical Research Assistant Job Description Template

Job overview, clinical research assistant responsibilities & duties.

• Assist in the planning and implementation of clinical research studies.
• Recruit, screen, and enroll study participants.
• Coordinate and schedule study visits and follow-ups.
• Collect, process, and manage biological samples.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of research activities.
• Communicate with research participants and address their concerns.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.
• Assist in the preparation of study-related documents and reports.
• Monitor study progress and report any adverse events or protocol deviations.
• Support data analysis and interpretation of research findings.
• Coordinate with other departments and staff involved in the study.
• Order and maintain inventory of study supplies and materials.
• Assist in the development of study protocols and procedures.
• Conduct literature reviews and support writing of research articles.

Clinical Research Assistant Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences.
• Previous experience in clinical research or healthcare setting.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in using electronic data capture systems and software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for clinical research.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Basic understanding of clinical research principles and methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrable organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow protocols and guidelines closely.
• Strong interpersonal skills for interaction with study participants and team members.
• Good time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ready to post a job using this template?

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Looking to hire the best talent for your company? Post your job to reach qualified candidates in just minutes. With our user-friendly platform, you can create a compelling job description and start receiving applications right away.

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What is a Clinical Research Assistant ?

Get clinical research assistant jobs emailed to you.

By signing up, you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy

Clinical Research Assistant Job Description Template

Job overview, clinical research assistant responsibilities & duties.

• Assist in the planning and implementation of clinical research studies.
• Recruit, screen, and enroll study participants.
• Coordinate and schedule study visits and follow-ups.
• Collect, process, and manage biological samples.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of research activities.
• Communicate with research participants and address their concerns.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.
• Assist in the preparation of study-related documents and reports.
• Monitor study progress and report any adverse events or protocol deviations.
• Support data analysis and interpretation of research findings.
• Coordinate with other departments and staff involved in the study.
• Order and maintain inventory of study supplies and materials.
• Assist in the development of study protocols and procedures.
• Conduct literature reviews and support writing of research articles.

Clinical Research Assistant Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences.
• Previous experience in clinical research or healthcare setting.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in using electronic data capture systems and software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for clinical research.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Basic understanding of clinical research principles and methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrable organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow protocols and guidelines closely.
• Strong interpersonal skills for interaction with study participants and team members.
• Good time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ready to post a job using this template?

Related job descriptions.

See job descriptions similar to a Clinical Research Assistant

Blood Bank Laboratory Technician

Blood typer, blood and plasma laboratory assistant, blood or blood bank technician, catheterization laboratory technician (catheterization lab tech), certified clinical laboratory technician, certified dialysis technician, clinical laboratory assistant (clinical lab assistant), clinical laboratory technician (clinical lab technician), clinical technician (clinical tech), hematology technician, hemodialysis technician, ready to start hiring.

Looking to hire the best talent for your company? Post your job to reach qualified candidates in just minutes. With our user-friendly platform, you can create a compelling job description and start receiving applications right away.

Powered by Web Scribble Solutions , Inc.