How to Become a Certified Clinical Research Associate

A CRA or Clinical Research Associate monitors research studies and trials in a CRO (Contract Research Organization), a pharmaceutical company or a biotech company. Their responsibility is to ensure adherence to clinical research guidelines, FDA approved methodology and SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures). Since the role of a CRA is that of utmost responsibility, rigorous clinical research training and certification from recognized organizations is an essential requirement.

Clinical Research Training and Certification

Organizations involved in clinical trials look for candidates who are certified and have undergone validated and standardized training. The work of a CRA is critical to the success of a clinical research project and therefore, a great deal of importance is given to finding certified and well-trained candidates. There are a few good clinical research courses in Hyderabad that students can opt for. CRAs with prior experience but without certification can opt for the valuable CRA Training and Certification Program which would certify them as a CRS Certified Clinical Research Associate. This certificate will be value addition to their work experience and recognition in the industry. Certification is however not necessary to start working as a clinical research associate. Students with a life science background can undergo clinical research training at any worthwhile institute and find employment. A certification will only add to their credibility and help them enhance their career prospects.

Eligibility for CRA Certification

To be employed in the clinical research field, one needs to be from a life science background with training in clinical research. However, if students wish to get certified from an official authority, they will need to have a good training, educational background and work experience. Those without a sciences background but with Master of Health Care Administration or other similar health-care related qualifications can also apply for the certification program and will also be eligible for future employment.

Certification Details

The program is conducted through a 40-hour online structured training course where registered members are offered access to the CRS portal for learning and certification. Core clinical research training is conducted covering areas such as drug development, regulations, roles and responsibilities, documentation, ethics, safety reporting, etc. The certification examination for CRA is of 2 hour duration.Members are also required to use resources from websites such as the FDA, local and international policies, best practices, guidelines, etc. available at the learning and certification portal of CRO. The certification is to be maintained every two years from the issue of original certification. Certified individuals are required to complete 24 documented hours of activity for the maintenance of the certification, which is to be achieved by accumulating credits through CRE (Continuing Research and Education) and CPE (Continuing Professional Engagement).

Other Certifications

Certification can also be sought from organizations such as Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) and Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA). However, even these certifications require prior clinical research experience. The experience could be as a clinical research coordinator or any other role in a clinic setting or in the pharmaceutical industry. Any role in clinical research can be counted as experience as long as a manager or HR personnel will attest to your experience.

Ikya Global is one of the few best Clinical Research training institutes in Hyderabad that offer training at affordable prices along with placement assistance and certification.

For more Details Please Visit our Website

Ikya Global Education