Clinical research associates (CRAs) and clinical research coordinators (CRCs) are essential members of a research team, providing both administrative and technical support services to ensure successful project completion. The two roles are often confused, with many people believing them to be the same, however, there are a number of key differences between the two that should be considered before embarking on either career path. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between a clinical research coordinator and a clinical research associate, and discuss the qualifications, responsibilities, and career paths associated with each position. We will also discuss the key skills sets that each role requires in order to be successful in the role. Our aim is to arm you with the knowledge required to make an informed decision about which career path to pursue.
What is a clinical research associate?
Clinical research and trials are carried out by a clinical research associate. These experts frequently oversee or help with testing new or existing medications to guarantee consumer safety and efficacy Designing testing procedures, observing tests, and compiling reports on their findings may be part of their job duties. Clinical research associates must be aware of pertinent drug testing regulations and make sure they are followed. These professionals are sometimes called clinical or trial monitors. Their typical duties may include:
Clinical research associates collaborate with a group of research experts, just like clinical research coordinators do. Additionally, associates act as a point of contact for these employees and the study’s funders. They both supervise or carry out clinical research activities, so their respective skill sets are similar. Among the abilities that promote success in this industry are:
What is a clinical research coordinator?
Conducting clinical trials and studies is the responsibility of a clinical research professional. They manage necessary administrative tasks as well as assist in developing and implementing research processes. For instance, clinical research coordinators engage with study participants and frequently give them questionnaires and study-related information. Numerous clinical fields, including medicine, health screening services, genetics, diseases or disorders, and illness prevention, may be covered by this research. These people frequently collaborate with a group of experts and answer to the principal investigator of the research facility to develop and review research protocols or ethical guidelines and guarantee adherence to them. Their typical duties may include:
As previously mentioned, clinical research coordinators frequently collaborate closely with the research team and participants. These professionals need a number of soft skills in addition to the technical abilities they have acquired through their education and training, such as:
Clinical research coordinator vs. clinical research associate
Clinical research associates and clinical research coordinators are employed by the same company. They have several similarities, along with some differences. Examples of how these two professions contrast with one another are provided below:
Responsibilities
The duties of clinical research coordinators include organizing and overseeing clinical studies and experiments. These experts aid in participant recruitment and proper protocol and procedure training for research staff members. Because of these duties, the clinical research coordinator frequently interacts with trial participants directly to determine their eligibility, handle recruitment strategies, and explain the trial procedure. They also supervise the principal investigator of the research facility and evaluate research protocols, as was already mentioned.
In order to conduct and oversee drug trials, clinical research associates frequently work with a group of clinical research experts. These people typically don’t communicate with trial participants, in contrast to the clinical research coordinator. The research associates frequently concentrate on ensuring the data’s quality and accuracy while the clinical research coordinators collect research data. However, depending on the position, there may be some overlap between the duties of these two professions.
Education
Both careers require at least a bachelor’s degree in an applicable field. These fields require entry-level positions, and this degree typically takes four years to complete. Some employers might demand that people in both professions hold a master’s degree. A master’s degree can be earned in up to two years, and people may choose to do so in order to advance their careers or fill more senior positions.
Clinical research, medical technology, health science, and public health administration are pertinent academic specialties for those interested in a career as a clinical research coordinator. Aspiring clinical research associates should pursue degrees in fields of study related to the life sciences or medical technology. The courses offered in these programs can equip students with the abilities, information, and practical knowledge required to fulfill these roles successfully. They could study topics like biochemistry, anatomy, health care management, and clinical information systems, for instance.
Certification
Before working as a clinical research coordinator, some positions or states call for applicants to obtain a license or certification. People can learn more about these specifications when starting their careers and applying for jobs. For instance, the Association of Clinical Research Professionals offers Clinical Research Coordinator Certification, and the Society of Clinical Research Associates offers designation as a Certified Research Professional. To be eligible and pass the exams to obtain these certifications, individuals must meet the educational and professional requirements.
Although it isn’t always necessary, those interested in becoming clinical research associates might think about getting certified. For instance, both the Society of Clinical Research Associates and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals offer certifications for clinical research associates. These certifications require passing exams, having the necessary education and work experience, and To keep these certifications, people need to take continuing education courses. Certifications can help candidates demonstrate their knowledge and set themselves apart from other job candidates in addition to fulfilling employer or state requirements.
Work environment
Clinical research coordinators and associates often work within research facilities. A clinical research coordinator might work for the government, hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, or institutions of higher learning. These experts are part of a team that frequently consists of a principal investigator and clinical research associates.
The same is true for clinical research associates, who frequently work in the research divisions of pharmaceutical companies, health organizations, or institutions of higher learning. They could also work for contract research organizations (CROs), which assist research teams financially. Some jobs allow these individuals to work from home. However, clinical research associates may manage several clinical trials concurrently, which necessitates visiting various trial sites to track their progress
Salary
Tips for choosing between clinical research coordinator or clinical research associate careers
If you’re interested in a career in clinical research, you can compare the roles of clinical research coordinator and associate to see which one is best for you. The following advice can assist you in making decisions:
Main Differences Between A Clinical Research Coordinator and A Clinical Research Associate
FAQ
What is the difference between clinical research coordinator and clinical research associate?
The research associates frequently concentrate on ensuring the data’s quality and accuracy while the clinical research coordinators collect research data.
Is clinical research associate higher than coordinator?
Clinical research associates (CRAs) are typically paid more than coordinators because they manage multiple trial sites simultaneously, possess a bachelor’s degree (at a minimum), and generate results that are cost-effective for enhancing the effectiveness of a trial.
Whats the difference between CRA and CRC?
People who lack research experience frequently find it difficult to distinguish between a CRA and a CRC. One of the key distinctions between the two is that a CRC can work with only a high school diploma, whereas a CRA must have at least a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent.
What is clinical research associate?
The main duties of a clinical research associate (CRA) typically include keeping an eye on study sites and clinical activities, updating study documentation, maintaining clinical data systems, and coordinating research procedures.
