Careers in Clinical Research

Clinical research is defined as a thorough study of medicines and equipments being used in the field of medicine. It is a part of pharmaceutical industry wherein the clinical researchers do thorough research about the benefits and threats of a product, predominantly medicines used for treating and curing various diseases found in human beings. Clinical research is carried out by pharmaceutical companies or contract research organizations. It is generally conducted before the launch of any drug in the market, in order to check its positive as well as negative effects. The path of examining medication can be followed at various phases after the instigation of the product, as the safety issues of large masses is involved.

The job of a clinical researcher demands responsibility, dedication and determination. Patience, hard work and analytical skills are also necessary in order to pursue a career in clinical research. One mistake of a clinical researcher can indirectly ruin the life of countless people and can even defame the company and spoil the reputation of its product. India has been considered as one of the prominent places to conduct such a research, as there the need for different medicines in order to cure different ailments is increasing, with increase in the population of the country.

Course Details
Clinical research is a job of an expert. One can opt for a career in this field either after 10+2 or after graduation. Masters or graduation degree in the field of pharmacy, medicine, life science and bioscience can be considered as a good option. Besides, specialized course in clinical research is conducted at multiple levels in various institutions through out India.

Career Prospects
Statistics reveals that India is the second largest pharmaceutical market in Asia and more than 50,000 jobs are waiting for deserving candidates in the field of clinical research in the country. A fresher can start his/her career as Clinical Research Associate and with experience, can hold higher position. One can work as Biostatistician, Clinical Research Manager, Clinical Research Coordinator, Business Development Manager, Clinical Research Investigator, Clinical Data Manager etc., after pursuing course in the relevant field. Options in the field of education are also open for those, having done PhD in clinical research.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
The pharmaceutical industry is among the fastest growing sectors in India. Numerous institutions are now offering education and training in the field of clinical research, keeping in view of the growing demand for good clinical researchers. Some of the prominent institutes offering course in the field are Academy for Clinical Excellence (ACE), Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Institute of Clinical Research (ICRI), Bombay College of Pharmacy, Cliniminds - Academy for Clinical Research Training & Management, Aghrakar Research Institute and Bhabha-Atomic Research Center, Visva-Bharati University.

Remuneration
Remuneration in the field of clinical research is very high. A beginner can expect a salary up to Rs. 3 lakh per annum. Higher qualifications and experience would add to the remuneration.