Career Paths Beyond CRA — What’s Next in Clinical Research?
Summary
CRAs can elevate their careers into roles such as Project or Trial Manager and Medical Science Liaison—stepping into leadership, operational oversight, or scientific strategy after gaining hands‑on trial experience.- Author Company: PharmiWeb
- Author Name: Mike Wood.
Many Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) eventually wonder: what’s next? Mike Wood outlines five compelling post‑CRA trajectories in clinical research, each delivering more strategy, leadership, or scientific impact.
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Clinical Project Manager (CPM): Lead entire trials, from budgeting to timelines and team coordination. Ideal for those keen on big‑picture involvement.
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Clinical Trial Manager (CTM): Focus on operations—overseeing site performance, supervising CRAs, and keeping trials inspection‑ready. Great for aspiring leaders.
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Clinical Research Scientist / Medical Science Liaison (MSL): Shift toward the scientific realm—engage with investigators, influence protocol design, and enjoy less travel with heightened scientific input.
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