The position of clinical data manager is essential to the process of the clinical trialling and results analysis of new drugs. Clinical data management ensures trials are conducted according to strict protocols and that data is accurate, consistent and completed to the quality standards required by regulatory bodies. Data managers operate within multidisciplinary teams including statisticians, clinicians, research associates and quality managers. Pharmaceutical companies’ trials databases are key and extremely valuable assets.
A data manager’s tasks involve designing databases, protocols and their forms, summarising and listing efficacy and side-effects, testing new trials management systems and training associates. These key tasks require a high level of computer, interpersonal, analytical, organisational and statistical skills. Graduates take preference for this position, with a degree in medical statistics a distinct advantage, and many companies encourage new employees to study for further qualifications such as a master’s degree. The graduate diploma in statistics from the Royal Statistical Society is the equivalent of an honours degree.
Senior level salaries run between £30,000 and £65,000 or more, with entry level at an average of £20,000. NHS salaries are lower, but may include more benefits, while pharmaceutical companies tend to offer higher salaries than other sectors.