An integral part of the medical industry and the development of pharmaceuticals, a clinical research associate (CRA) is commissioned with setting up, initiating and monitoring clinical trials alongside doctors and other medical professionals. Such trials are done in the effort of establishing risks, benefits, effects and the efficacy of medical products prior to their release in the market
A CRA may be employed in a pharmaceutical company, an academic institution or in contract research organisations, also known as CROs. Through these employers, the CRA will coordinate with developers, doctors and other medical professionals, set up and monitor equipment and facilities, develop trial protocols and prepare case record forms, in addition to numerous ad hoc tasks
Job holders in this field must generally hold an official CCRA certification from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals in addition to associated prerequisites and applicable specialist qualifications
In the United Kingdom, this position entails salaries ranging from about £20,000 to £50,000 per annum. The average figure in recent years has been close to £30,000 per annum.