Clinical research assistants work in hospitals, laboratories, and other institutions that conduct scientific studies. They identify subjects or clinical trials, collect data, evaluate results, monitor clinical trials, and take notes on activities. They audit research trials and ensure all clinical trial protocols are in compliance. They transfer data from paper formats to a computer, recorder, or scanner in organized spreadsheets with large numbers, curating data directly from clinical research.
Clinical research assistants draft informed consent forms for trials and prepare correspondence, documentation, or presentation materials on research findings. They prepare interview questions, summarize results, perform literature reviews, respond to emails related to the research, attend project meetings, and prepare progress reports. Clinical research assistants also monitor a project budget and check its progress and need a bachelor's degree in science, psychology, or related fields and certification by the state as licensed through the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.