The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted the world, claiming countless lives. The urgent need for a solution led to the development of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines by Professors Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman. Their groundbreaking work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Before the pandemic, mRNA technology was largely experimental. However, it was swiftly deployed to millions worldwide, providing protection against severe cases of COVID-19. This same technology is now being explored for other diseases, including cancer.
The Nobel Prize committee acknowledged, “The laureates contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times.”
What is the Job all about?
As the name suggests, clinical researchers are involved in research and conduct clinical trials to evaluate the safety, dosage, and effectiveness of new drugs. Before any new drug is released to the market, it must undergo rigorous testing for safety, side effects, and proper treatment procedures. Clinical trials are essential to determine the exact dosage and administration route of medications. These trials are typically conducted by pharmaceutical companies, drug testing laboratories, and contract research organizations. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in reviewing the research before approving any drug for the market.
Clinical research scientists focus on diagnosing diseases and determining appropriate treatments through clinical investigations. This applied form of research assesses the effects, efficacy, risks, and benefits of medical products.
Clinical researchers engage in various activities, including:
- Bioavailability management
- Bioequivalence studies
- Developing trial protocols
- Conducting Phase II-IV trials
- Trial monitoring
- Data management
- Working in central laboratories
- Biotech, chemistry, and biology
- Providing Bio-IT solutions
- Participating in clinical research training
Can I go for it?
The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing tremendous growth due to the emergence of new diseases and the need for more effective treatments. Experts predict that over 50,000 jobs will be created in the coming years, offering significant opportunities in the field.
Is there a future in this field?
There is phenomenal growth in the pharmaceutical industry – what with new diseases cropping up and current diseases wanting better result oriented drugs experts predict that more than 50,000 jobs will be created in coming years.
Career Pathways:
• Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA)
• Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
• Senior CRA
• Clinical Team Leader
• Project Manager
• Senior Project Manager
• Manager of Medical & Regulatory Affairs
• Manager of Safety/Patents
• Manager of Quality Assurance
• Clinical Research Coordinators (CRC)/Study Coordinators
• Principal Investigators/Co-Investigators
• Medical Monitors
How to Start a Career in Clinical Research
In Goa
A degree in Pharmacy, Biology, or Biotechnology is the first step.
After completing 10+2, you can pursue a degree in Pharmacy/Botany/Biotechnology at:
• Goa College of Pharmacy (B.Pharm / M.Pharm / Ph.D.)
• St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa
• Dhempe College of Arts & Science, Panaji
• Carmel College for Girls, Nuvem
• Goa University offers an M.Sc. in Biotechnology, specializing in Marine Sciences, with research facilities at NIO-Goa.
For higher qualifications in clinical research, such as M.Pharma, M.Sc., or Ph.D., admission to postgraduate and diploma courses requires passing entrance exams followed by interviews.
Outside Goa:
• Sikkim Manipal University, Sikkim
• Indian Institute of Clinical Research (ICRI), New Delhi
• Public Health Foundation of India, Bangalore
• Clinical Research Education and Management Academy (CREMA)
• Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
• Christian Medical College, Vellore
Employment Avenues:
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Clinical CROs (Contract Research Organizations)
• SMOs (Site Management Organizations)
• Data Management CROs
• IT Companies in Healthcare/Clinical Domains
• EDC Service Providers
• Central Laboratories
Some of the job profiles are:
• Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA)
• Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
• Senior CRA
• Clinical Team Leader
• Project Manager
• Senior Project Manager
• Manager of Medical & Regulatory Affairs
• Manager of Safety / Patents
• Manager of Quality Assurance
• Clinical Research Coordinators (CRC) / Study Coordinators
• Principal Investigators / Co-Investigators
• Medical Monitors
Salary Expectations
• Clinical Researchers can expect to earn around ₹50,000 per month.
• Medical Writers and Senior Clinical Research Associates can earn around ₹70,000 per month, with potential to rise to ₹3-5 lakhs per month.
Don’t settle for just a degree or diploma — enhance your CV by completing online learning programs with certification in areas relevant to your chosen career. This will significantly improve your employment prospects compared to holding only a basic qualification. Additionally, consider boosting your confidence by enrolling in public speaking courses, such as those offered by Toastmasters International.
For government job opportunities, please check: www.employment-newspaper.com
page updated: August 2024