Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska Career Overview
As a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC), your role is integral to the advancement of medical science and patient care. You will manage and oversee clinical trials, ensuring that they are conducted in compliance with regulatory guidelines and protocols. Your responsibilities include:
Protocol Management: You will be responsible for implementing, monitoring, and adjusting study protocols. This ensures that each trial adheres to the predetermined methodology and objectives.
Participant Recruitment: Engaging with potential study participants is a key part of your job. You will facilitate informed consent, explaining the study's purpose, potential risks, and benefits, thereby ensuring that participants understand their involvement.
Data Collection and Management: You will oversee the accurate collection of data throughout the study, ensuring that it is reliable and recorded in accordance with regulatory standards. This involves maintaining meticulous records and managing databases related to trial outcomes.
Liaison Role: You will act as a liaison between various stakeholders, including investigators, sponsors, regulatory agencies, and participants. This communication ensures that everyone involved is informed and that the trial progresses smoothly.
Compliance Assurance: It is essential to maintain adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and ethical standards throughout the study. You will conduct audits and monitor trial activities to identify any issues that could impact the integrity of the research.
Reporting: You will prepare and submit progress reports to regulatory bodies and provide updates to your team and sponsors, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the duration of the trial.
Your role is fundamental in bridging the gap between scientific research and clinical application, as the data collected under your oversight can lead to significant breakthroughs in treatment options, medical devices, and healthcare practices. The importance of your work is reflected in its potential to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of medicine.
Clinical Research Coordinator Salary in Alaska
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska
To become a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. The following degree programs are particularly relevant:
Clinical Research Coordinator: This degree program focuses specifically on the essential principles and practices of clinical research, encompassing study design, regulatory compliance, and data management.
Clinical and Translational Science: This program combines varied disciplines, emphasizing the transition of scientific research findings into practical applications in clinical settings. It prepares you for challenges faced within clinical trials and research applications.
Research Administration: Enrolling in a research administration degree program will provide you with an understanding of managing research projects, including grant writing, compliance, and oversight of research budgets.
Research and Development Management: This program offers training on the administration of research and development operations, equipping you with skills necessary for effective management and coordination of clinical trials.
To enhance your qualifications, consider pursuing certification options related to clinical research, which can further establish your expertise in the field.
Best Schools to become a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska 2024
George Washington University
Drexel University
MCPHS University
Johns Hopkins University
Durham Technical Community College
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Investigate and describe the determinants and distribution of disease, disability, or health outcomes.
- May develop the means for prevention and control.
Clinical Research Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Alaska
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements, and federal regulations regarding human subjects research.
Attention to Detail: Ability to accurately document study protocols, track participant data, and ensure adherence to research guidelines is essential for maintaining data integrity.
Organizational Skills: Effective management of multiple tasks, timelines, and study materials while ensuring that all project components progress smoothly.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities to interact with participants, principal investigators, sponsors, and regulatory bodies. You need to clearly convey study information and updates.
Interpersonal Skills: Establishing rapport with study participants while maintaining professionalism will help facilitate participant retention and trust.
Problem-Solving Skills: The capability to identify potential issues during a study and implement effective solutions quickly to minimize disruptions.
Technical Proficiency: Comfort with data management systems, laboratory equipment, and electronic data capture tools enhances efficiency and accuracy in research processes.
Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment is essential to meet study deadlines and compliance requirements.
Team Collaboration: Competence in working within multidisciplinary teams, understanding the roles of other members, and contributing to a cohesive research environment.
Ethics and Confidentiality: Commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards and protecting the confidentiality of study participants in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Adaptability: The willingness to adjust to new protocols, technologies, and changing study requirements, demonstrating flexibility in approach as research projects evolve.
Job Duties for Clinical Research Coordinators
Communicate research findings on various types of diseases to health practitioners, policy makers, and the public.
Investigate diseases or parasites to determine cause and risk factors, progress, life cycle, or mode of transmission.
Oversee public health programs, including statistical analysis, health care planning, surveillance systems, and public health improvement.
Analytical or scientific software
- StataCorp Stata
- World Health Organization HealthMapper
Geographic information system
- Esri ArcGIS
- Geographic information system GIS software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska
The job market for Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs) in Alaska shows promising trends, reflecting national patterns of growth in the clinical research sector. As the demand for clinical trials and studies increases to support advancements in medical science, opportunities in this field are expanding.
Demand for Clinical Research Coordinators: There is a significant demand for CRCs due to the increasing number of clinical trials being conducted, particularly in pharmacological and medical device fields. Alaskan healthcare institutions and research organizations are looking to enhance their research capabilities, which creates a need for skilled individuals in coordination and regulatory compliance.
Growth Potential: The projected growth rate for clinical research positions remains strong, with many health organizations recognizing the importance of research for improving patient care. As healthcare trends shift toward more personalized and targeted treatment methodologies, the expertise of CRCs will be increasingly sought after to help manage the detailed processes involved in clinical trials.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Anchorage: As Alaska's largest city, Anchorage is home to several hospitals, research facilities, and academic institutions. Health systems in this area are actively engaging in research programs, providing ample opportunities for CRCs.
- Fairbanks: The University of Alaska Fairbanks and related medical facilities contribute to a growing network of research activities, especially involving environmental and community health studies.
- Juneau: This capital city is emerging as a point of interest for healthcare initiatives and may offer research opportunities connected to state-funded health projects.
Collaborations with Local Institutions: Many CRC openings in Alaska are often linked to collaborations with universities, hospitals, and health organizations that receive funding for clinical research. Engaging with these institutions can lead to valuable network connections and job openings.
Community Health Initiatives: There is a trend toward integrating clinical research with community health efforts, particularly in rural areas. This focus is not only expanding the reach of clinical trials but also ensuring that research is relevant to local populations.
In summary, the job market for Clinical Research Coordinators in Alaska is robust and evolving, providing numerous opportunities across various regions, particularly in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Engaging with local health organizations and educational institutions can enhance your prospects in this growing field.
Top Related Careers to Clinical Research Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska
American Association of Clinical Research Professionals (AACRP)
- Website: AACRP
- Overview: A professional organization that provides resources, training, and certification for clinical research coordinators.
Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO)
- Website: ACRO
- Overview: ACRO represents the clinical research organization (CRO) industry and offers insights into industry trends and regulations.
ClinicalTrials.gov
- Website: ClinicalTrials.gov
- Overview: A database of privately and publicly funded clinical studies conducted around the world. Essential for understanding ongoing research and trials.
Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Guidelines
- Website: ICH GCP E6(R2) Guidelines
- Overview: The international ethical and scientific quality standard for designing, conducting, recording, and reporting trials that involve the participation of human subjects.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Grants and Funding
- Website: NIH Grants
- Overview: Provides information on competitive grants and funding opportunities that may benefit clinical research coordinators.
Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA)
- Website: SoCRA
- Overview: An accredited professional organization that provides certification, education, and networking opportunities in the field of clinical research.
FDA – Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) Guidance Documents
- Website: FDA CDER Guidance
- Overview: Important for understanding regulatory expectations and guidelines that impact clinical research.
Research Ethics Resources – Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP)
- Website: OHRP
- Overview: Contains tools and educational resources related to the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects.
Alaska Clinical Research Network (ACRN)
- Website: ACRN
- Overview: A network that connects clinical researchers in Alaska, providing support and resources for local clinical trials.
Certification and Training Resources
- Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) Certification programs:
- Overview: Information on certification processes and continuing education opportunities for clinical research coordinators.
Books for Further Reading
- "Principles and Practice of Clinical Research" by John I. Gallin and Frederick P. Ognibene
- "A Guide to Clinical Trials" by John H. D. Parker
Utilizing these resources will help you deepen your understanding of the clinical research field and enhance your capabilities as a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska
What is a Clinical Research Coordinator?
A Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) is responsible for managing clinical trials and research studies. They work closely with research investigators, ensuring that studies are conducted according to protocol, federal regulations, and ethical standards. CRCs are involved in participant recruitment, data collection, and maintaining study documentation.What qualifications do I need to become a Clinical Research Coordinator?
Typically, you need at least a bachelor's degree in a health-related field or life sciences. Relevant experience in clinical research or healthcare can also be beneficial. Certifications, such as those offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA), can enhance your resume.What are the key skills required for this role?
Important skills for a CRC include:- Strong organizational abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Knowledge of regulatory guidelines
- Problem-solving capabilities
What does a typical day look like for a Clinical Research Coordinator?
A typical day may include tasks such as:- Preparing and reviewing study documentation
- Coordinating with study teams and healthcare professionals
- Monitoring patient progress and ensuring compliance with study protocols
- Managing data entry and reporting
- Conducting patient interviews and follow-ups
What types of clinical trials do Clinical Research Coordinators work on?
CRCs can work on a variety of clinical trials, including:- Pharmaceutical drug trials
- Medical device studies
- Behavioral research
- Epidemiological studies These trials can be industry-sponsored or investigator-initiated.
Where do Clinical Research Coordinators typically work?
Clinical Research Coordinators are usually employed by hospitals, academic medical centers, private research organizations, and pharmaceutical companies. Some may also work for government agencies or nonprofit research organizations.How does one advance in a Clinical Research Coordinator career?
Advancement can occur through gaining experience, taking on more complex studies, or pursuing further education and certifications. Some CRCs move into roles such as Clinical Research Associate (CRA) or into management positions within research organizations.What are some challenges faced by Clinical Research Coordinators?
Some challenges include:- Keeping up with regulatory changes
- Managing participant recruitment and retention
- Handling multiple projects simultaneously
- Navigating unexpected issues during trials
Is there a demand for Clinical Research Coordinators in Alaska?
The demand for Clinical Research Coordinators in Alaska varies by region and institution. However, as clinical research continues to grow nationwide, opportunities in Alaska may increase, especially in larger medical facilities and research institutions.What is the average salary for a Clinical Research Coordinator in Alaska?
Salaries for Clinical Research Coordinators in Alaska can vary based on experience, education, and the specific employer. As of recent data, the average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, but this can differ significantly by location and type of organization.Are there opportunities for remote work in this field?
While many CRC positions require physical presence due to the nature of clinical trials, some roles, particularly in data management or monitoring, may offer remote work options. It's advisable to check job listings for flexible positions if remote work is a priority for you.