CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Clinical Research Coordinator

Manages clinical trials (research studies), participant recruitment, data collection by ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and facilitate coordination between researchers and study subjects to ensure the trials run smoothly.

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Oversee the daily operations of clinical trials, prepare reports and ensure accurate record-keeping of study activities, adverse events and trial progress.

Knowledge
Clinical trial regulations, research methodologies, data management practices and ethical considerations.
Skills
Organizational Skills:

Ability to manage multiple tasks, schedules, and documentation efficiently to ensure smooth operations.

Communication:

Coordinating with researchers, participants, and regulatory bodies, and clearly conveying information.

Problem-Solving:

Identify and address issues that arise during clinical trials, ensuring that challenges are resolved promptly.

Abilities
Analytical Ability:

Interpreting complex data and research results to make informed decisions and ensure accurate reporting.

Project Management:

Plan, execute, and oversee various aspects of clinical trials, including timelines, resources, and participant management.

Regulatory Compliance:

Understanding and applying regulatory guidelines to ensure that all trial activities adhere to ethical standards.

Personality
Patient:

Working through the complexities of clinical trials patiently and managing any issues or delays that arise with persistence.

Ethical:

Upholding high standards of integrity and responsibility in handling sensitive data.

Adaptable:

Adjusting to changing protocols, evolving research needs, and unexpected challenges.

Technology
Electronic data capture (EDC) systems for managing data, clinical trial management systems (CTMS) for tracking study progress and participant information and eCRFs (electronic case report forms) to streamline reporting processes.
Entry Requirements
Bachelor’s degree, professional certification and relevant experience in research settings.
Job Outlook
Growing Clinical Research Sector:

Expansion of pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries in Pakistan is increasing demand for skilled clinical research coordinators.

Increased Focus on Healthcare Innovation:

Rising investment in medical research and development is creating more opportunities to contribute to innovative treatments.

Enhanced Regulatory Environment:

Improved regulatory standards in clinical research are leading to more structured and stable career prospects.

Where can you work?
In pharmaceutical companies, clinical research organizations (CROs), hospitals, academic research institutions, and government health agencies.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree:

Complete a Bachelor's degree in Biology or Biomedical Science, life sciences, medicine or a related field to gain foundational knowledge.

Specialized Training or Certification:

Enroll in certification programs or specialized training in clinical research to develop specific skills.

Practical Experience:

Acquire hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in clinical research settings.

Where can you study?
University of the Punjab, Lahore:

Offers a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and Biomedical Sciences, providing a strong foundation for clinical research careers.

University of Karachi, Karachi:

Provides programs in Biomedical Science and Life Sciences, focusing on research methodologies and clinical applications.

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad:

Features a program in Biological Sciences, emphasizing research skills and scientific knowledge.

Expenses & Scholarships
Costs ranges between PKR 150,000 and PKR 400,000 per year approximately, depending on the institution. Scholarships and financial aid options are available from universities and government programs, potentially covering part or all of these expenses.

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