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.