About Clinical Research Coordinators

Clinical research is a branch of healthcare science that determines the safety and effectiveness of medications, medical devices, diagnostic products and treatment regimens intended for human use. It’s a growth industry that has significantly increased the demand for Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs).

Pima’s Clinical Research Coordinator program trains students to coordinate the medical trials that test these new drugs, treatments and medical devices, leading to therapies that have the potential to help millions. CRCs are responsible for the organization, coordination and overall integrity of a medical research project with humans.

A CRC works with study participants, under the direction of a Principal Investigator, usually a medical doctor. Principal and co-investigators provide the overall direction of a research project, but CRCs have significant roles in the following clinical study activities:

• Reviewing and developing study protocol
• Recruiting, screening and enrolling participants
• Obtaining participant informed consent
• Scheduling tests and procedures
• Collecting clinical research data
• Ensuring accuracy of documentation
• Dispensing study medications
• Managing the use of investigational devices

Clinical research coordinators find employment in academic medical centers, industry (drug and device), clinical research organizations and private research organizations. This is a dynamic and challenging field with opportunity for growth and career development.