Clinical Trial Manager Job Description

Are you looking for a role in the medical industry?

If you are good at managing data, a clinical trial manager role could be for you. This job mainly involves supervising clinical trials and overseeing clinical research associates.

You need to be very organized to do this job and have a keen eye for detail. For many people, this role can be a stepping stone to advanced positions in the healthcare industry.

To find out if this could be your dream job, check out my in-depth…

Clinical Trial Manager Job Description

A job description for this role should start by giving an overview of the company you would work for. It should explain the clinical setting you would be working in. It should also provide an outline of the types of clinical trials that are usually conducted.

There should be information on the education, experience, and special qualifications you need to do this job. There will be details of the types of tasks you are likely to be expected to perform. The type of contract you are being offered, and the base salary should also be explained in the job description.

Duties And Responsibilities

The tasks you will complete will depend on the size of the company you work for and the types of trials. However, there is a set of typical tasks that usually go along with this role. Here are some of the main duties and responsibilities you are likely to be charged with.

Managing Clinical Trials

The main part of this job is managing clinical trials for drug companies, private physicians, and government agencies. This involves making sure that the clinical trials are run and executed correctly and follow the established protocols. You will have to report any issues that arise to the physician who is in charge of the clinical trial.

Recruiting Study Subjects

You need to find people who are willing to take part in the clinical trial. These participants will usually have to meet certain criteria to be selected. You need to help with the screening process and make sure participants have the necessary trial information.

Monitoring the Trial Progress

You need to keep track of every development during the clinical trial. This includes monitoring the progress of the trial as a whole as well as the study subjects. You will usually be given certain diagnostic tools to use when monitoring the progress of the trial.

Contacting Supervisors and Scientists

You need to form close working relationships with the physicians and scientists who run and manage the trial. Keep these professionals up to date with developments and give them important details that arise. This is usually done during meetings with scientists, researchers, and physicians.

Collecting Data

You will usually be expected to interview the study subjects during clinical trials. Create questions that will have an important impact on the outcome of the trial. You will also collect data from different study subjects and present it during meetings with scientists, researchers, and physicians.

Skills and Attributes

You need to have a strong interest in science and pharmaceutical knowledge to do this job. There are also specific soft skills that will help you perform your tasks more effectively. Here are some of the skills and attributes a successful clinical trial manager should possess.

Scientific or medical knowledge

You need to have at least basic knowledge of the science and medical terms behind the clinical trial. This includes having a strong understanding of biochemistry, pharmacology, and chemistry. This will allow you to apply scientific principles when making decisions during trials.

Research skills

You need to be able to conduct independent research during different trials. Know how to set up trials as well as the correct way to collect and interpret data.

Leadership skills

You need to be able to manage a team of clinical trial employees and other people. Be confident delegating tasks and motivating people to get their work done. You should be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of different employees and lead by example.

Communication skills

You need to be able to record complex data and write detailed reports. And present your findings from time to time. It is essential to be able to explain complex information clearly and simply.

Analytical skills

A major part of this role involves collecting trial data. Once the data has been collected, you need to be able to analyze it correctly. You will have to take note of any important outcomes or patterns that arise.

Education And Training

You usually need to have a bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering field to do this job. While at college, you should take courses in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, genetics, and statistics. To work on some clinical trials, you will need to have a master’s degree and some supervisory experience.

Certification

You need to obtain special certification to prove you have the skills and knowledge to do this job. Choose a certification that is administered by the Clinical Research Professionals. You should enroll in at least six required courses as well as one elective to earn your certification.

Required training

You usually receive on-the-job training when you start your career. This training has to be conducted in accordance with standard operating procedures. The type and amount of training you need to complete will be determined by your head of department.

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Final Thoughts

The starting salary for this role is typically around $65,000 per year. You will also receive a special benefits package that includes health and life insurance. After a few years, your salary could well climb to around $100,000 per year.

Earning a master’s degree will give you access to more advanced clinical trials. This can boost your salary and career prospects considerably. If you excel in this role, you could earn at least $130,000 per year.

All the very best working as a Clinical Trial Manager!