Clinical Research Coordinator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

A Clinical Research Coordinator, or Senior Clinical Research Coordinator, is responsible for overseeing clinical trials or studies to test the effectiveness of new drugs or biotechnology. Their duties include sorting through applications and choosing qualified candidates, monitoring the health of each participant throughout the trial and compiling a report to summarize the success or failure of a particular drug, technology or medical procedure.

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Clinical Research Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

A Clinical Research Coordinator is responsible for a variety of duties including the following:

  • Overseeing the trouble-free running of clinical trials
  • Collecting data obtained from research, coding and analyzing it
  • Managing budgets set aside for research
  • Communicating with participants regarding study objectives
  • Administering questionnaires and monitoring participants to ensure they adhere to the study’s rules
  • Liaising with laboratories regarding research findings
  • Monitoring the study to ensure that it complies with protocols, is ethically-conducted and follows regulatory standards
  • Maintaining research records of study activity, including case report forms, drug dispensation records or other regulatory forms as per FDA guidelines
  • Directing the collection, labeling, storage and transport of all specimens
  • Making sure that all equipment and supplies needed for the study are in-stock and in good working order

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Clinical Research Coordinator Job Description Examples

 

Example 1

Position Summary:

Under general supervision, the Clinical Research Coordinator provides assistance to the Research Department, including recruitment, managing data, and collecting, processing, and coordinating samples, specimens, and information.

Duties AND Responsibilities:
  • Provide assistance to Research staff by organizing files, projects, information and data.

  • Collect, process, and assist in the compilation and verification of research data, samples, and/or specimens (following strict protocol and detailed instructions)

  • Enter data from forms and documents into databases and other documents

  • Assist with routine data verification and quality control, ensuring data integrity and consistency with prescribed study protocol

  • Become familiar with Research SOPs and study protocols

  • Ensure patient’s referring physician receives notification of patient’s participation in studies as requested by the patient

  • Collect, process, and ship blood/urine/stool specimens at patient visits

  • Complete and maintain case report forms per FDA guidelines, and review them against the patient’s medical record for completeness and accuracy

  • Submit patient stipends/reimbursement requests at the conclusion of study visits

  • Ensure the filing and maintenance of all regulatory documents

  • Maintain temperature logs

  • Order and distribute dry ice as needed

  • Periodically check expiration dates on clinical supplies and re-order as needed

  • Assist coordinators with preparation of source documents

  • Assist with subject recruitment by performing chart reviews, cold calling, etc.

  • Schedule patient visits

  • Process Lab specimens

  • Assist with vital signs

  • Perform Fibroscans once trained

  • Phlebotomy

  • Provide general office support to keep operations running smoothly

  • Other duties as assigned

    Education & Experience:
  • Completion of Medical Assistant program

  • Minimum two years of experience in a related healthcare position

  • Previous experience with clinical trials a plus

    Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Able to effectively present information and respond to questions from physicians, staff and patients

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office software preferred, knowledge of EMR systems required

  • Able to function effectively in a team setting

  • Must have critical thinking skills

  • Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as excellent interpersonal skills with patients, staff, and other health care professionals

  • Able to demonstrate consistent professional conduct and meticulous attention to detail

  • Completion of Good Clinical Practice and IATA training required

  • Must be able to work flexible hours as necessary

  • Previous Medical Assistant and/or Phlebotomy experience preferred

  • Must be a self-starter and demonstrate initiative

  • Willingness to learn a must

    Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Location: One location
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    Example 2

    Role Overview
    Arizona Neuroscience Research a rising Research Center that is located with the practices of Center for Neurology and Spine. An established Neurology practice with three locations in the valley, providing collaborative individualized treatment plans. While they specialize in Multiple Sclerosis, they are proficient in all Neurological conditions (i.e., Headaches & Migraines, Alzheimer’s Disease, Cervical Dystonia, Seizures, Sleep Disorders, etc.).

    Arizona Neuroscience Research is seeking an experience Clinical Research Coordinator for our offices located in Phoenix, AZ. This position is responsible for following guidance of Investigators to bring patients the opportunity to participate in Phase II, III and IV clinical trials, ensuring protocol compliance and close monitoring while the participants are on study. In addition to connecting with participants to help them navigate the various entities involved in these trials.

    Responsibilities
  • Independently coordinates complex clinical research protocols with minimal direction from the Principal Investigator and/or supervisor in compliance with regulatory laws and office guidelines.
  • Review with the Principal Investigator (PI) the inclusion/exclusion criteria, overall structure, and requirements of each protocol.
  • Collaborate with Principal Investigator to develop and implement strategies for participant recruitment and ongoing communications with all physicians, research staff, and office staff.
  • Review and verify all relevant source documentation in the participant’s medical record to confirm study eligibility.
  • Ensure that all procedures are followed as per protocol guidelines.
  • Coordinate with participants for all clinic, virtual, and phone visits.
  • Identify, document, and report unanticipated problems and adverse events.
  • Review laboratory results and communicate abnormal values to the PI/SI and as needed, primary care provider.
  • Administer Investigational products as needed and maintain the study logs.
  • Report all Adverse Events to the Principal Investigator, Sponsor, and IRB as outlined in the protocol.
  • Maintain accurate and complete documentation including but not limited to regulatory documents, signed informed consent forms, relevant IRB approvals, source documentation, drug/device logs, subject logs, and study related communications.
  • Maintain certification, training and credentials necessary to perform role defined by the site and protocol.
  • Ability to take and assess vitals and perform venipuncture.

    This role description is intended to be a representative summary of the major responsibilities and accountabilities of the team member holding this position. The team member may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description

    Qualifications
  • Minimum Bachelors Degree required.
  • Minimum of two-years clinical research experience.
  • Proficient knowledge of medical and clinical terminology.
  • Proficient computer software and database skills.
  • Strong understanding of FDA clinical trial phases II-IV.

  • Strong attention to detail, written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and excel in a fast-evolving environment.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Professionalism, Patience, and Empathy.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: From $58,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
    Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

    Experience:
  • Clinical Trials: 2 years (Required)
  • Phlebotomy: 1 year (Required)
  • Regulatory reporting: 1 year Location: One location
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    Example 3

    Join one of the nation’s fastest-growing Telehealth companies! We’re expanding again and hiring a new Clinical Coach Quality Assurance Technician in our growing Kentucky Clinical Coaching team!

    We offer the exceptional Quality Assurance leader a unique opportunity for outstanding career growth in the rapidly emerging, multi-billion-dollar Telehealth market!

    \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

    Community Wellness is recognized as the nation’s foremost innovator of technology-enabled, Remote Patient Monitoring solutions combined with personal Patient Health Coaching. Our hospital partners, physician practices, clinicians, and patients utilize our proprietary, best-in-class informatics, FDA-approved devices, certified health coaches, and online communities, to deliver improved patient outcomes through high-quality services at a much lower cost.

    We provide our Clinical Coaching team a remote working environment, competitive earnings and benefits, unlimited paid time off, personal recognition and advancement.

    \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

    Community Wellness is searching for someone special to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a proprietary RPM (remote patient monitoring), virtual healthcare & health coaching/patient education pilot study. The Clinical Research Coordinator *is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of clinical trials and studies documenting the impact RPM has on healthcare delivery. In addition to supporting cutting-edge medical science, the successful candidate will also periodically serve as a health and wellness clinical coach.

    \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

    They will:
  • Responsible for ensuring study is compliance with local and federal laws and regulations
  • Recruits and screens potential study participants and performs intake assessments
  • Works in concert with Community Wellness’ CMO/Co-Principal Investigator and the Principal Investigator (PI; based at the University of Louisville) to assure study success
  • Assists the PI in development of materials and tools necessary to appropriately train individuals involved in the conduct of the study around issues related to protocol requirements, schedule of visits and execution of research plan
    Creates and/or maintains all documents and records related to the study

    \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

    We require:
  • A bachelor's degree in nursing or a health science field
  • 3+ years previous experience working in a clinical setting
  • Prior clinical study experience at a major medical center, ideally as a clinical study coordinator
    *Do YOU have what it takes? Apply immediately to speak with us about beginning a rewarding career with Community Wellness!*

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $45,000.00 - $48,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

    Application Question(s):
  • Do you live in the state of Kentucky?

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

    License/Certification:
  • LPN, RN, NP, PA Location: Remote
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    Example 4

    Senior Clinical Research Coordinator

    Department
    Multiple Locations- Bellaire, Cyfair, Humble, Sugar Land and Tomball
    Employment Type
    Full-Time
    Minimum Experience
    Experienced

    DM Clinical Research, the largest privately-owned research management organization in the Houston area and one of the top 50 in the country, is looking for a Clinical Research Coordinator experienced in coordinating studies. This position works closely with our Clinical Research staff to provide excellent care to patients participating in our clinical trials.

    Responsibilities

  • Overseeing the smooth running of clinical trials.
  • Collecting, coding and analyzing data obtained from research.
  • Managing research budgets.
  • Informing participants about study objectives.
  • Monitoring research participants to ensure adherence to study rules.
  • Adhering to research regulatory standards and ethical standards.
  • Maintaining detailed records of studies as per FDA guidelines, including items such as drug dispensation.
  • Liaising with laboratories regarding findings.
  • Participating in subject recruitment efforts.
  • Ensuring that the necessary supplies and equipment for a study are in stock and in working order.
  • Engaging with subjects and understanding their concerns.

    Requirements

  • Have at least three plus years of experience as a CRC, preferably with practice coordinating industry sponsored vaccine trials in a private setting.
  • Be an energetic, go-getter who is detail-oriented and can multi-task.
  • Be goals-driven while continuously maintaining quality.
  • Have ACRP certification, which is a Type: Full-time
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    What Does a Clinical Research Coordinator Do?

    Clinical Research Coordinators typically work for hospitals, medical research facilities or clinical agencies to prepare and lead clinical trials. They work closely with other clinical professionals to ensure that clinical trials adhere to laws and regulations. Their job is to make sure that each participant has the correct medical history to take part in the trial. They also communicate with participants before the start of the trial to answer questions and address concerns. They may also be responsible for applying for grants and acquiring funding to conduct clinical trials.

    Clinical Research Coordinator Skills and Qualifications

    To be a good Clinical Research Coordinator, a candidate should have the following skills:

    • Medical and scientific knowledge: A Clinical Research Coordinator doesn’t have to be a doctor, pharmacist or scientist, but they do need to have some knowledge of this field. They should understand the basics of biochemistry, pharmacology and chemistry to make decisions without constantly having to check with researchers.
    • Analytical mindset: A Clinical Research Coordinator needs analytical skills to collect and interpret data, taking note of patterns or outcomes that those in charge of the trial need to be aware of.
    • Background in research: Being a Clinical Research Coordinator requires an in-depth knowledge of the research process. A Clinical Research Coordinator must know how to set up a trial and collect and interpret the data.
    • Excellent interpersonal skills: This position often requires interaction with researchers, participants and stakeholders, so the ability to communicate and solve problems is essential.
    • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills: This is needed to actively communicate the requirements of the trial steps to participants and to liaise with laboratory staff and managerial staff.
    • Outstanding organizational and managerial skills: Since clinical trials require the coordination of large and complex trials, multiple participants and large amounts of data, a Clinical Research Coordinator must be very organized and have good managerial skills.

    Clinical Research Coordinator Salary Expectations

    The average yearly salary for a Clinical Research Coordinator is $48,906. This salary estimate is based on 735 salaries submitted to Indeed by Clinical Research Coordinator employees and collected from job advertisements over the past 36 months. This salary estimate is based on a Clinical Research Coordinator position with 1-3 years of experience.

    Clinical Research Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

    A Clinical Research Coordinator needs a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some jobs require a bachelor’s degree in clinical research, nursing or a related field. Other jobs require an associate degree and on-the-job training. A certified Clinical Research Coordinator must have a bachelor’s degree in clinical science research or a master’s degree in nursing and an RN license.

    Clinical Research Coordinator Experience Requirements

    A Clinical Research Coordinator should have at least two years of experience. Experience can be gained through research studies conducted while earning their degree or from volunteer research work at medical-related charities. 

    Job Description Samples for Similar Positions

    This job description sample for the position of Clinical Research Coordinator may not be exactly what you are looking for. You may want to check out job description examples for related positions, such as the following:

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    Frequently asked questions about Clinical Research Coordinators

     

    What is the difference between a Clinical Research Coordinator and a Clinical Research Associate?

    Clinical Research Coordinators and Clinical Research Associates both work to organize and monitor the progress of clinical studies or trials. Still, they differ in their level of seniority and scope of job responsibilities. For example, Clinical Research Coordinators oversee clinical trial personnel, including Clinical Research Associates. They delegate tasks to Research Associates and act as a point of communication for questions or concerns throughout the clinical trial. In Contrast, Clinical Research Associates assist Coordinators by sorting through candidate applications and monitoring the progress of the trial onsite in the Coordinator’s absence.

     

    What are the daily duties of a Clinical Research Coordinator?

    On a typical day, a Clinical Research Coordinator checks their email and voicemail messages to see whether they received responses from potential funders, trial candidates or medical professionals. Throughout the day, Clinical Research Coordinators communicate with Associates and other personnel to collect data from ongoing trials. They also speak with representatives from pharmaceutical companies to determine to learn about new drugs or vaccines that need testing. 

    Clinical Research Coordinators use downtime in their office to review candidate applications for upcoming clinical trials and narrow down their selection based on several criteria necessary for all trial participants.

     

    What qualities make a good Clinical Research Coordinator?

    A good Clinical Research Coordinator has a passion for medical research and a desire to help others. They also commit to maintaining safe and ethical practices within clinical trials. Further, a Clinical Research Coordinator has excellent written and verbal communication, enabling them to advocate for funding and compile study reports to influence the use of pharmaceutical drugs and biotechnologies in future medical practices. Clinical Research Coordinators also have experience handling a budget and prioritizing purchases to maintain an effective clinical trial.

     

    Who does a Clinical Research Coordinator report to?

    Clinical Research Coordinators typically report to the Principle Investigator of a clinical trial or study. They may also report to a Clinical Research Manager or Clinical Director depending on the hierarchal structure of their facility.

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