Cross Over Program
Clinical Research Associate

The Cross Over Program Clinical Research Associate (xCRA) is specifically designed for anyone with a life-science education and work experience not yet working in clinical research. This Cross Over Program will help you to cross the path from your current job into the clinical research industry.

THE xCRA WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH

  • industry required competencies for a Clinical Research Associate role including
    • introduction to clinical research
    • understanding GCP and general regulatory requirements
    • on-site trial monitoring
    • remote and centralized monitoring
    • monitoring oncology trials
    • patient protection and informed consent
    • handling of adverse events
    • data management basics for clinical trials
  • a proven process to prepare your job application
    • identify your dream job
    • understand what are the requirements and how to meet them
    • create a clear and concise CV
    • prepare your interview
    • negotiate your package
  • 4 personal coaching sessions with our talent specialist
    • find the right job for you
    • define your application strategy and actions
    • optimize your communication and information
    • prepare for your interview

You can start your program any time after purchase and define your own pace with our online setup. This is ideal for anyone with a current employment.

Program Competencies

  • What is clinical research
  • How are clinical trials managed
  • Who can participate in clinical trials
  • What are the key phases and roles in clinical trials
  • ICH GCP E6(R2) Certificate
  • Investigator Oversight
  • Background of medicines development
  • Research and discovery stage & product development
  • Clinical development
  • Regulatory submission, Health Technology Assessment, lifecycle management
  • ICH GCP and other applicable regulations
  • Applicable international and national regulations
  • ICH GCP E6 (R2)
  • FDA Regulation
  • Quality Assurance: Audits and Inspections
  • The Study Protocol
    • Elements of a Study Protocol according to ICH GCP
    • Trial Design
    • Methodologies
  • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Ethics Committees
    • Sponsor / Monitor
    • Investigator
    • Competent Authority
  • Selecting an Investigational Site
    • Assessing Investigational Sites
    • Training and Upgrading Investigational Sites
  • Initiating Investigational Sites
    • Organizing the Initiation Visit
    • Setting up the required documentation – Essential Documents
  • Effective Monitoring
    • Planning, Conducting, Documenting, and Reporting Monitoring Visits
    • Managing Issues
  • Closing Investigational Sites
    • Organizing the Close-Out Visit
    • Documentation
    • Reporting
  • Patient Protection
    • Patient Information
    • Collecting Patient Consent
    • Special Patient Populations
  • Adverse Event Reporting
    • Types of Adverse Events
    • Identifying and Reporting Serious Adverse Events
  • Managing the Investigational Medicinal Product
    • Definition of investigational medicinal product (IMP) / study drug
    • Provision of the IMP
    • Drug Accountability
    • Randomization, blinding and un-blinding processes
    • Managing Expiry Dates
    • Collecting IMP after Site Close-out
  • Data Collection
    • Clinical Research Form (CRFs)
    • Process of Data Collection
    • Data Collection Systems
  • Data Validation
    • Data validation process
    • Query Process
    • Data Quality Assurance
  • Background of monitoring concepts
    • Including on-site, remote, and statistical monitoring
  • Regulatory guidance to remote and statistical monitoring
  • Monitoring concepts in the framework of risk-based monitoring
  • From concept to reality: Remote monitoring and centralized statistical monitoring
  • Daily Life of a Remote Monitor
    • Responsibilities
    • Tools and resources
    • How to handle centralized statistical monitoring
    • Monitoring activity and their focus
    • Documentation and follow-up
    • Team interactions
  • What makes a good Remote Monitor
  • Understand the characteristics of cell formation, the major causes of cancer and global impact of the disease
  • Examine the impact of Oncology studies and current treatment
  • Be able to discuss available treatments and objectives of treating cancer
  • Examine various cancer treatments and their adverse reactions
  • Explore alternative treatment options
  • Identify common cancer drug and cancer combinations
  • Thoroughly understand the relationship between risk and benefits of tumor therapies
  • Recognize chemotherapy drug types and different principles
  • Differentiate between cancer and uncontrolled tumor growths
  • Recognize the six major categories of cancer classifications
  • Understand components of medical terminology related to cancer
  • Be able to discuss Oncology trial schematics and understand the design features.
  • Be able to describe the four phases of Oncology studies.
  • Understand Endpoint requirements in Oncology
  • Recognize common clinical assessments related to oncology trials
  • Gain proficiency in reviewing clinical reports
  • Identify disease history and common Inclusion/Exclusion criterion
  • Define each line of therapy and understand the timing of each line
  • Understand dosing design in oncology studies
  • Recognize most common Adverse Events and be able to discuss clinical events related to oncology studies
  • Recognize common toxicities and understand the DLT process
  • Be able to discuss recruitment challenges in Oncology studies
  • Describe the screening and enrollment process
  • Understand the role of the medical monitor and various key members during screening process
  • Pathology
  • Radiology
  • Clinical Reports and Source
  • Medical
  • Surgical
  • Distinguish between RECIST 1.0 and RECIST 1.1
  • Utilize appropriate oncology disease progression algorithms
  • Understand disease progression
  • Prepare for challenges with site structure and Delegation of Responsibility at oncology sites 
  • Describe key site staff and associated roles
  • Discuss the key function of site staff
  • Learn Sponsor/CRO expectations of Oncology Monitors
  • Understand the stress and pressures of monitoring oncology studies
  • Learn time saving techniques while monitoring

Application process

  • Setting clear goals and expectations is the crucial first step when it comes to your job search.
  • Understand WHAT are the required skills of your dream job and how to acquire them 
  • you will address THE most important piece to get your dream job
  • As often, it’s more about preparation and practice than any other “miracle tip”. There is no secret – however, there is a good way to prepare correctly for any interview (a method), and this method works well.
  • Negotiate and Get What You Truly Deserve.

Personal coaching

  • set a realistic job goal
  • match your goal with your skills and competencies
  • be clear about your strength and weaknesses
  • select the target jobs to apply for
  • define what you need to do to be successful in your application
  • align your information and your documents to match the requirements of the selected target jobs
  • ensure your skills and competencies are clearly understandable and meet your real situation
  • send your application to the right recipient via the right media
  • once you are invited to an interview, we will do a preparation interview with you
  • simulate the situation and understand what could come to you

VIARES CERTIFICATE

Upon enrollment you will receive your first certification “Confirmation of Enrollment”. After successful completion of the program and your exam, you get your personal “xCRA Certificate” including:

  • course title
  • contact hours
  • continuing education units (CEU)
  • your overall course score
  • date of completion
  • personal certificate verification code
 

We also show you how to best share your certificate on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Obtaining your xCRA certification can provide several potential benefits, including:

  • Professional recognition: A Clinical Research certification demonstrates to employers and colleagues that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your role as a clinical research professional.
  • Competitive edge: In a competitive job market, having a Clinical Research certification can set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of being hired or promoted.
  • Career advancement: With a Clinical Research certification, you may be eligible for higher-paying and more advanced roles in the field.
  • Increased knowledge and skills: Pursuing a Clinical Research certification can help you gain a deeper understanding of clinical research methods, regulations, and ethical considerations, which can help you perform your job more effectively.
 

Overall, obtaining a Clinical Research certification can be a worthwhile investment for those who are committed to their career in clinical research and interested in advancing their knowledge and skills.

Your expert instructors

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Joanna Wilinska Mackowiak

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Andreas
Beust

Hear from our graduates

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Sundass

Being a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator myself, I can tell this with confidence that VIARES Clinical Research Academy program is a top-notch course for clinical research industry practitioners and professionals. It covers all aspects of Clinical

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research and trials process. The modular approach, combined with assignments and quizzes at end of each module keeps the students engaged as the program progresses. I would recommend this course not only to prospective Clinical Research professionals but also to those who are already working in the clinical research industry.

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Sarah

VIARES has unique trainings for Clinical Research Associates. The training is well structured and detailed including examples and content presented by industry experts . The excellent training received at the Academy provides strong support and

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is therefore a great stepping stone to working in operations in the Pharma industry as well as CROs worldwide. Thanks VIARES for the opportunity to enhance and develop my skill set!

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reviews curated by judge.me

why should I become a clinical research professional?

  • There are several potential reasons why you might consider becoming a clinical research professional, including:
  • Contributing to medical advances: By working in clinical research, you have the opportunity to contribute to the development of new treatments and therapies that can improve people’s lives.
  • Job growth and stability: Clinical research is a growing field with many job opportunities, and the demand for skilled professionals is likely to continue to increase in the future.
  • Competitive salaries: Many jobs in clinical research offer competitive salaries, and with experience and advanced education or certifications, you may be able to earn even more.
  • Career variety: Clinical research involves many different types of roles and responsibilities, which can provide you with the opportunity to explore different areas of interest and develop a diverse set of skills.
  • Intellectual challenge: Clinical research involves a significant amount of critical thinking, problem solving, and attention to detail, which can be intellectually stimulating and rewarding.

 

Overall, becoming a clinical research professional can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path for those who are interested in contributing to medical research and improving patient outcomes.

what are the typical responsibilities of an entry level clinical research role?

The specific job responsibilities of an entry level clinical research role can vary depending on the position and the employer. However, here are some common job responsibilities that you might expect to encounter in an entry level clinical research position:

  • Assisting with protocol development: Entry level clinical research professionals may be responsible for helping to develop study protocols, which describe the goals, methods, and procedures for a clinical trial or research project.
  • Preparing study documents: This may include preparing informed consent forms, case report forms, and other study documents necessary for the conduct of a clinical trial.
  • Coordinating study visits: Entry level clinical research professionals may help coordinate patient visits and assist with data collection during these visits.
  • Managing study data: This can include entering data into electronic databases, performing quality checks on the data, and generating reports as needed.
  • Assisting with study recruitment: Entry level clinical research professionals may help with recruiting and screening study participants.
  • Managing study supplies: This can include ordering and organizing study supplies, such as medications or lab kits.
  • Assisting with regulatory compliance: Entry level clinical research professionals may assist with ensuring that the study is conducted in compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines.
 

Overall, entry level clinical research roles often involve a mix of administrative and clinical tasks, and may require working collaboratively with a variety of team members to ensure that the study is conducted effectively and efficiently.

IS THIS THE BEST OPTION FOR ME?

To become a clinical research professional, there are several educational and experiential backgrounds that can be helpful, including:

  • Education: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field such as life sciences, nursing, or medicine can be helpful. Some employers may also prefer candidates with a degree in a related field, such as statistics or public health.
  • Clinical experience: Many clinical research positions require prior clinical experience, such as working as a nurse, medical assistant, or physician. This experience can provide valuable insight into the patient experience and medical care delivery.
  • Research experience: Experience working on research projects, such as in a lab or academic setting, can be helpful in demonstrating an understanding of the research process.
  • Regulatory experience: Experience working with regulatory bodies such as the FDA can be valuable for clinical research professionals working in areas such as clinical trial management or regulatory affairs.
  • Computer skills: Clinical research professionals should be comfortable using computers and various software programs, including electronic data capture (EDC) systems and statistical analysis software.
 
 

Overall, a combination of education and experience can be helpful for those seeking a career in clinical research. It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and regulations, and to continually seek out opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills in this rapidly-evolving field.

If you are not sure if this is the right training for you, we are happy to help you make the right decision. Email us at academy@viares.com and we will contact you.

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BESTSELLER

Cross Over Program
Clinical Research Associate
Typical annual market salary:
$47,000 to $125,000+
This Course includes

 249,90

 39,90 / month for 12 monthsPay monthly

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BARTEK JAROSZ

18 Years experience

Bartek has 18 years experience in clinical research business, mostly spent at largest global Contract Research Organizations. At Quintiles he was responsible for pioneer development of clinical start-up and regional contract departments. He served as executive member of clinical start-up leadership team at INC Research, acting as global head of site contract division. His most recent experience includes support for pharmaceutical organizations in various project specific roles. Bartek enables biopharma to get their sites up and running faster. He is author of several training programs about site contract related matters and successfully delivered to hundreds of individuals worldwide.

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GAVIN CHAIT

Data Scientist at Whythawk

Gavin Chait is a Data Scientist at Whythawk, which specializes in integrated open data consulting, and training for open knowledge, freedom of information, and economic development projects. He spent more than a decade in economic and development initiatives in South Africa. He was a commercial director at the Open Knowledge Foundation, and led the implementation of numerous open data projects around the world. Gavin has twenty years of experience in teaching at all academic levels, and is a passionate advocate for knowledge development through open access to data and freedom of information.

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PATRICIA HOLLIS

in the industry for 21 years

Patricia has been in the clinical research industry for over 20 years. She began her career as a clinical research coordinator at the Medical College of Virginia where she coordinated pharmaceutical and PI initiated trials. She has been a Clinical Research Associate for 16 years and has had the opportunity to serve as a Lead CRA, Clinical Trial Manager, Auditor, Mentor, and Clinical Research Instructor. She has worked in all phases of research and is experienced in numerous therapeutic areas, including Oncology, Endocrinology, CNS, Immunology, Cardiology, Nephrology and Device. Currently, she is a contract CRA through her company, The Hollis Group, LLC, which she owns with her husband and serves as a consultant at local research sites. Patricia completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Virginia Commonwealth University, MBA at Texas Woman’s University and has had specialized oncology training from the Oncology of Nursing Society.

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1 YEAR ACCESS
Pay in 12 monthly INSTALLMENTS
  • One year access to your training courses
  • Plan ends automatically after 12 payments
  • Personalized certificate upon completion
  • VIARES exam – 2 attempts included
  • All online-training course material
  • Online access to our learning management system
  • No training course handouts for offline learning
  • No unlimited access

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one payment - unlimited access
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  • Training course handouts included
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  • Online access to our learning management system
  • Personalized certificate upon completion

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