Clinical Research Associate After BDS in India
If you are a dentist who gets excited about research and medicine then becoming a Clinical Research Associate after BDS might be the right call for you.
Keep reading to find out how to become a CRA after dentistry!
Understanding the Role of a Clinical Research Associate
What is a Clinical Research Associate?
A clinical research associate monitors and coordinates clinical research projects for safety, regulatory compliance, and data collection.
They play a significant role in the success of any clinical trial.
Clinical monitors need to :
- Handle database design and data entry.
- Prepare an accurate report about the trial.
- Coordinate with the investigators and research teams.
- Monitor that the trial follows all safety and regulatory guidelines.
- Understand and execute the details of the trial with attention to detail.
How Does a BDS Degree Help in Clinical Research?
Transferable skills from dentistry
- Understanding of medical terminology and diseases.
- Skills like attention to detail and research knowledge.
- Familiarity with medical ethics regulations and documentation makes you an ideal pick for this role as a BDS graduate.
Skills Required for a Clinical Research Associate after BDS
Essential Skills
- Your strong problem-solving and analytical skills that develop while dealing with patients in the clinic will help you understand the objective and content of the trial.
- Careful attention to detail that you learn from performing intricate medical procedures helps with data management and compliance checks.
- Strong communication skills gained through patient care enable you to connect with trial participants and explain study procedures clearly.
- Your familiarity with medical ethics and understanding of good clinical practice (GCP) will help you determine the regulatory requirements in clinical research.
Technical Skills
- Basic understanding of biostatistics and tools like SAS.
- Proficiency in using CDMS platforms like Veeva Vault, Trial Master File (TMF), etc.
- Proficiency in Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems like Medidata Rave, Oracle Clinical, etc.
Pathway to Becoming a Clinical Research Associate after BDS
Educational Requirements
Anyone with a life sciences (biochemistry, microbiology, etc.) or health sciences degree (MBBS, BDS) can become a Clinical Research Associate.
Apart from this, certain certifications are highly recommended for those who want to get into this role :
- Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA): Offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP)
- Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP): Offered by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA)
- ICH-GCP Training: Familiarity with International Council for Harmonisation – Good Clinical Practice guidelines.
Clinical Research Associate After BDS: Relevant Training Programs
Several institutes offer training programs for Clinical Research Associates in India. Some of the most popular ones are :
Indian Institute of Clinical Research offers:
- Advanced Diploma in Clinical Research
- Clinical Research Associate Training Program
Indian Council of Medical Research offers:
- Ad Hoc Projects,
- Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Junior Research Fellowships,
Institute of Clinical Research India offers:
- MSc in Clinical Research,
- PG Diploma in Clinical Research
The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research offers PG courses in Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs.
Top Contract Research Organization List
Contract Research Organizations, or CROs, hire people in research-based roles across various fields. Some of the most popular CRO’s include-
- Novotech- Specializes in Asia-Pacific clinical trials.
- Parexel- Expertise in regulatory consulting and clinical trial management.
- ICON Clinical Research- Known for innovation in clinical trial design and execution.
- CliniRx- Offers Phase I-IV clinical trial management and pharmacovigilance services.
- CliniRx- Offers Phase I-IV clinical trial management and pharmacovigilance services.
Job Opportunities in Clinical Research
Top Companies Hiring Clinical Research Associates
- Cipla
- Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
- Lupin Limited
- Torrent Pharmaceuticals
- Biocon
- Bharat Biotech
- Serum Institute of India
- Covance
- Parexel
- QVIA (formerly QuintilesIMS)
- CliniRx
- Novotech
- Syneos Health
- ICON Clinical Research
Job Search Strategies
As popular as research-based roles have recently become, they are not everyone’s cup of tea.
You should only apply for a research role if it is something you are passionate about and want to excel in.
To become a clinical monitor :
- Pursue certifications like GCP, CCRA, CCRP, etc.
- Get a degree in life sciences, pharma, or related fields.
- Participate in research activities while completing your bachelor’s degree. It will make your resume stronger for this role.
- Network extensively. Reach out to the employers directly. Join professional groups like DIA and local clinical research networks to expand your circle.
- Apply to the job – strategically utilize job portals like LinkedIn and include relevant keywords from the job description in your portfolio.
Challenges Faced by New CRAs
Common Challenges
- Balancing multiple projects and deadlines.
- The data can feel too confusing and overwhelming in the beginning.
- Most research data is multidisciplinary and requires prerequisite skills to understand.
- Working in clinics focuses on patient care, while research-based roles focus on study, data management, and compliance.
Overcoming Challenges
- Focus on understanding more than performing in the beginning. Take in what the job asks of you and perform your tasks accordingly.
- Seek Mentorship: Talk to experienced professionals and build a rapport to understand and learn from their experiences.
- Communicate Effectively: Express your concerns and doubts, and do not hesitate to ask questions.
- Above all, keep an open-minded attitude and always be willing to learn.
Future Prospects in Clinical Research
Career Growth Opportunities
The role of a clinical research associate in India offers a great scope for growth. Some of the potential career options in the field of research include:
Industry Trends: Clinical Research Associate After BDS
The research field is ever-developing. There are new trends in the sector every day.
Anyone who wants to become a part of this field should keep up with the latest developments.
- Increased Adoption of Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs)– these trials leverage telemedicine, remote monitoring, and digital tools to conduct trials outside traditional sites.
- Remote monitoring– the process of overseeing clinical trials without the need for physical visits to the trial sites. Instead, digital tools and electronic systems ensure compliance and data quality.
- Advances in Digital Health Technologies– Wearable devices and sensors are now used for real-time health monitoring. Mobile health (mHealth) apps help with patient engagement and adherence.
Conclusion
Clinical research associates overlook all aspects of a clinical trial. Their job entails managing the data and progress of all teams participating in the trial.
Want to become a Clinical research associate after BDS in India? Book a call with Odigio for personalized guidance.