A clinical research associate (CRA) is responsible for research in collaboration with others. A CRA makes detailed observations, analyzes data, and interprets results. Research associates prepare technical reports, summaries, protocols, and quantitative analysis.
A CRA may also be responsible for identifying patentable inventions and acting as the principal investigator in conducting their own experiments. A CRA may also be asked to participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals.
Scientists can work independently or as part of a team at universities, hospitals, or in research and testing laboratories.
Other workplace settings:
$95,500
According to the BLS, employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 12,600 openings for medical scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
The number of science-related jobs in sales, marketing, and research management, for which the number of non-PhDs usually qualify, is expected to be more plentiful than independent research positions.
At the entry level, the job requires a Bachelor of Science or advanced degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent with a minimum of up to 2 years of related experience.
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
Association of Clinical Research Professionals
610 Madison Street, Suite 101 – #613
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 254-8100
www.acrpnet.org