Clinical Research Associate
Also known as: CRA · Clinical Trial Associate · Clinical Research Coordinator
Monitors clinical trials at hospital sites so that data is accurate and rules are followed.
What you’d do
A clinical research associate (CRA) monitors clinical trials at hospital sites to check that patient data is accurate and that the trial follows the protocol and regulations. Employers include pharmaceutical companies and contract research organisations. A typical day involves site visits, checking records against source documents, and writing visit reports.
- Visits trial sites to check records
- Verifies patient data against source files
- Tracks consent and safety reporting
- Keeps trial documents up to date
How you get in
Most freshers start as a clinical research coordinator at a hospital site or in trial data and safety roles, then move to CRA after one to two years. A short course or certificate in clinical research and GCP training is common.
Salary in India
Fresher salary over the years
middle of the 0–1 yr range, ₹ lakh a year
Fewer than two years of fresher data so far — the trend shows once there are two.
Skills you’ll use
From our guide · a curated list is coming
- Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
- Source data verification
- Medical and trial terminology
- Report writing
- Travel and site coordination
About this field · for freshers
Job openings by year
Is demand growing?
Not added yet.
Competition4
How many graduates enter each year?
BAMS graduates in 2023-24 at institutions that reported to AISHE — everyone finishing that degree, not only those entering this role.
Who hires
IT firms, banks, government, startups?
Not added yet.
Where the jobs are
Which cities?
Not added yet.
Women in the field4
Is it diverse?
Share of women among BAMS graduates in 2023-24 — the entry degree, not people already working in this role.
At a glance
- CRA roles usually expect prior trial experience; direct fresher entry is uncommon.
- The job often involves frequent travel.
- Next roles: senior CRA, clinical trial manager, project manager.
Stay safe
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