Looking to break into a CRA

Hello,

I'm currently finishing my first year in a PhD program, but am quickly discovering that bench research is not where I want to be for the rest of my life. I'm looking to get into a CRA position in the south/central Jersey or Philadelphia area, but I have zero experience in clinical monitoring. With the exception of the experience, I feel that I would be a very good CRA. I've worked in a cGMP/cGLP environment, and I have a strong analytical background, good communication skills and basically a love of learning; so jumping into a CRA and learning as I go would not be a difficult prospect for me.

I have a BS in biotechnology, and completed one year of a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

Anybody know of a place where I can start?

You are in a very good place being in the New Jersey and Philly area...There are a ton of big pharma, biotechs and CROs in your area.
With you PhD you may feel over qualified at first, but it will be a good degree to have once you progress up the ladder.
The best place to begin is at the bottom... If your goal is to be a CRA then best place to look is at a CRO... Look for a position like a clinical research assistant.. This role will help introduce you to clinical research... You should be promoted to a CRA between 6 months and a year.

Good luck,
Chris

Sean M in Marlton, New Jersey said: Hello,

I'm currently finishing my first year in a PhD program, but am quickly discovering that bench research is not where I want to be for the rest of my life. I'm looking to get into a CRA position in the south/central Jersey or Philadelphia area, but I have zero experience in clinical monitoring. With the exception of the experience, I feel that I would be a very good CRA. I've worked in a cGMP/cGLP environment, and I have a strong analytical background, good communication skills and basically a love of learning; so jumping into a CRA and learning as I go would not be a difficult prospect for me.

I have a BS in biotechnology, and completed one year of a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

Anybody know of a place where I can start?

You have received very good advice thus far in this posting. I would add that I found an introductory online University course like the one offered by Michigan State University will help you prepare. What with specific GCP and CRA industry terminology, you will need to understand structure for the interview to help you accelerate in winning your first job and being promoted quickly.
This course definitely helps. It is offered by the college of nursing but helps anyone with a science background. Check it out.
I think you will find it invaluable.
nursing.msu.edu/cracrc.aspx

Your qualifications r 100% matched to wat is reqd to make an entry in CR field. But I also recommend u here to do some training courses on CR & ICH-GCP to add weightage in ur CV.
And always remember it is the industry where xprnc matters more !!

Wish u all the Luck !

hi

i m simon . completed my masters in life science.i m interested in pursuing PhD in clinical research assocites.....i just wanna to know that is there any uni in USA.who carry on PhD in CRA..pl..reply me

regards,
simon

I am currently working at a CRO in Piscataway, NJ. Attached to the CRO is an Institute where I began as a student 3 months ago. The school is called American Scitech Institute. Its a very thorough educational program. The classroom training is 6 months in duration upon completion you will be CRA certified and have the option to participate in a paid internship. Once you have completed the internship you can either be hired directly by American Sci Tech International or we can place you. If you work hard, communicate well and pick up the information quickly you can be hired quicker. I was in the same position many science majors are in 3 months ago and the school has provided me with numerous opportunites. I hope this helps. If you would like to talk to me directly please feel free to call me at 201-709-7077 or email me at michelle_santoro@yahoo.com.

Good Luck

if you want moreinfo on American Scitech Institute visit craschool.com

Jim in Lyndhurst, New Jersey said: if you want moreinfo on American Scitech Institute visit craschool.com

Are you currently as CRA?

hii..im suneetha doing my masters in biotechnology at new york....the thing is im international student..am i eligible for the american scitech institute to get into that for CRA...

Yes I do believe you would still be eligible. I am holding a seminar this weekend Saturday June 21, 2008 at 12pm at American Scitech Institute. 15 Corporate Place South Piscataway, NJ. If you can make it that would be great. If not we can arrange for a day during the week for you to come in and discuss your options in detail.
Thanks

suneetha kambampati in Corona, New York said: hii..im suneetha doing my masters in biotechnology at new york....the thing is im international student..am i eligible for the american scitech institute to get into that for CRA...

Hi Suneetha,

Give me a call at 732-549-2030x117 and I will be able to guide you to our process on CRAs. We will be able to provide you with the right training to be a successful CRA and get you on a project with our clients. IRI is a staffing firm and we have been working with international recruitment for almost 13 years so we will also work with you so you get your H1B visa.

Look forward to hearing from you and any international candidate looking to get some global exposure in the US.

forward your resumes to vidhu@irionline.com

Hi,

I am Indrani, staying at Morrisville, PA. Before coming US I worked as a clinical quality auditor for 5 years in a CRO at Hyderabad. I am on H4 now....I would like to change into H1b...If anybody knows how to get sponsorship for H1b please help me.

thanks
Indrani