Clinical research is one of the most lucrative and rapidly growing industries. The global clinical trials market is estimated to reach $46.7 billion in 2024. The field is expected to grow in value even more as new vaccines and therapeutics continue to be developed. By 2027, experts predict that the global market will reach $69.9 billion. There is a bright future in clinical research, and you will want to be a part of it.
Applicants for entry-level positions in clinical research may start their careers by completing a certificate program.
Here are a few tactics that can be very effective for people with foreign medical degrees, training in the life sciences or allied health, or previous work experience in a regulated setting.
1. Gain clarity on your career goals for the Future in Clinical Research
Most people turn on their computers and begin applying for vacant openings when they want to work in clinical research. You should start your application process by responding to the following questions:
- Do you prefer paid employment or voluntary work? Do you need money now, or is the experience you’ll receive more significant?
- Which career path most interests you? Is there one in particular that you would prefer to others? In addition to the positions of clinical research coordinator (CRC) or associate (CRA), there are other other opportunities in clinical research.
- Would you be willing to move to a different city, state, or country? The salary for entry-level jobs may not be the highest, therefore you must evaluate if you would be willing to relocate despite the poor pay.
- Are you searching for a contract, full-time, or part-time work? You might be more interested in a full-time career for medical benefits or a part-time position for a better work-life balance depending on your specific situation. As an alternative, you might be interested in job openings at first, and then make the switch to a full-time job.
2. Invest in your future of clinical research
Becoming familiar with the principles of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) early on in their job search is the most important step. Your training beyond GCP may vary greatly depending on the kind of clinical research firm you choose to work with. For instance, training for a medical device firm specializing in cardiology will differ from training for a pharmaceutical company specializing in oncology.
A Diploma in Clinical Research and Pharmacovigilance can help you secure a Career in Pharma which could be a life-changing decision
What you can do to focus your clinical research education priorities is as follows:
- Decide which ideal position (job opportunity) you want to apply for.
- Examine the job requirements listed in the job description.
- Draw attention to the skills in which you lack knowledge or experience.
- Research books, YouTube videos, and seminars to hone that particular talent (i.e., fill the skill gap).
3. Fix your Resume for Future Clinical Research
A job description should not be the format of your resume. The majority of businesses use resumes to screen applicants. Unfortunately, the hiring manager will not grasp your accomplishments in your current and past employment if your resume reads like a job description. Your Resume should instead highlight your professional accomplishments. When possible, quantify the accomplishments you attained in your past employment and be sure to state them clearly. Mention any relevant workshops, seminars, or conferences you’ve attended. Research common responsibilities and challenges faced by CRAs to demonstrate your knowledge during interviews. This shows your commitment to continuous learning.
Clinical research also makes use of transferable abilities including project management, writing, and information systems administration.
4. Pay attention to job chances and follow up often
Concentrate on no more than 10 job applications at once. During their job hunts, many candidates submit numerous applications each week. Applying for ten clinical research positions at once is preferable to applying for every opening that comes up immediately.
Employers must undoubtedly be followed up with. You might show the recruiting manager that you are still interested in working for the organisation by following up with them.
5. Write and speak clearly
For many positions, you may also need to exhibit superior written and verbal skills in addition to strong technical talents. This is significant since the field of clinical research is collaborative and cross-functional.
Numerous applicants will write a page-long, generic cover letter that contains a carbon copy of their resume. Instead, I advise applicants to create a cover letter with three to five bulleted points outlining why employing them for the position would be advantageous.
Keeping a list of the main points you wish to cover when communicating verbally is the simplest technique to ensure that your message is clear.
6. Prepare for your interview
Once you’ve been given an interview date, use the following advice to get ready for the interview:
Review the “News” and “About” sections of the business website. Find out more about the clinical and regulatory leadership team of the business. The news section will include an analysis of the most recent company press releases.
Make a list of five to eight examples from your training or work experiences that you appreciate to help focus your responses. The next step is to use the STAR structure to build a story around each of these instances (Situation, Task, Action, and Results).
The last thing you should focus on is maintaining a professional demeanour both during and after the interview.
7. Don’t Only Apply for Advertised Positions
It seems counterintuitive at first. The majority of big companies will post jobs and use recruiters. However, smaller companies may be more open to “spontaneous” applications.
This is why CRA Career & Jobs recommends sending CVs and cover letters to companies not actively recruiting CRAs, and clearly stating why you’re interested in the company, and that if any openings occur, you would be very happy to be contacted.
Conclusion
Working in clinical research would be a dream come true for many people. The tips above can make it much easier for you to find a job if you follow them. Start with your education, gain experience, hone your skills, network to form lasting connections, and tailor your resume and interview responses. It increases the chances that you’ll land interviews and a job offer by showcasing yourself as an exceptional candidate.
