Clinical Research Coordinator

Before a new drug can hit the market, it needs to pass a series of tests first to prove that it’s safe for use. Clinical Research Coordinators help out in these tests, serving as the go-to people for the Scientists running the trials, and making sure the safety of the participants takes top priority. This is an important position. Although Clinical Research Coordinators don’t create the experiments, they’re the ones who make sure they’re done safely, on time, and on budget.

The biggest responsibility of your job as a Clinical Research Coordinator is to ensure the safety and consent of the participants. You explain the risks of the experiment clearly, draw up consent forms, and make sure everyone involved has freely agreed to the test before it begins. You ensure that everyone on the team has the proper medical or scientific training, and that the benefits of the experiment outweigh the risks to the test subjects. In general, it’s your job to make sure the trials are run ethically and for the good of the patients.

Throughout the trials, you see to it that all information is recorded correctly and accurately, while maintaining the confidentiality of the participants at the same time. You prepare the necessary paperwork for the International Review Board, a governing body that checks the safety of experiments and gives consent to perform them. In addition, you can prepare budgets, serve as the liaison between the company sponsoring the trial and the Scientist, and recruit new participants.