Clinical Research Associate

Clinical Research Associate (pronunciation: /ˈklɪnɪkəl rɪˈsɜːrtʃ əˈsəʊʃiˌeɪt/), often abbreviated as CRA, is a healthcare professional who performs many activities related to medical research, particularly clinical trials.

Etymology

The term "Clinical Research Associate" is derived from the English language. "Clinical" refers to the direct observation and treatment of patients, "Research" refers to the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions, and "Associate" implies a person who is closely connected to the task, often in a working capacity.

Roles and Responsibilities

A Clinical Research Associate is responsible for the design, implementation, and monitoring of clinical trials. They ensure that the trials adhere to the guidelines set by the Good Clinical Practice and the Ethics Committee. They also play a crucial role in data collection, data analysis, and report preparation.

Related Terms

• Clinical Trial
• Good Clinical Practice
• Ethics Committee
• Data Analysis
• Report Preparation

Education and Training

Typically, a Clinical Research Associate holds a bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field. They also undergo specific training related to clinical trials and research ethics. Some may hold advanced degrees or certifications in clinical research.

See Also

• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Clinical Research Organization
• Clinical Data Management

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