The career of a clinical research scientist can be exciting. The work requires a lot of skill, and the tasks you handle are often incredibly engaging.  

However, if you want to further your career, you need to make sure your skillset meets today’s employers’ expectations. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some of the top skills employers want to find in their clinical research scientist candidates.  

Clinical Database and Data Review Tools  

As a clinical research scientist, you’ll spend a significant amount of time reviewing trial or other research data. Familiarity with various clinical database solutions – such as J-review, Medidata, or RAVE – is often considered essential. It ensures you can acclimate to the workplace and reach full productivity faster.  

Additionally, knowledge of other data review tools may be a must. Precisely which ones could vary from one clinical research scientist position to the next, but a degree of skill with one or two may be enough general knowledge to make you a great candidate.  

Medical Writing  

Most clinical research scientists need to create documentation, reports, and similar writings as part of their core duties. Medical writing skills ensure that you know how these kinds of documents are structured and what kind of language and terminology is either necessary or appropriate.  

Written and Verbal Communication  

Both written and verbal communication skills are essential in nearly every field, including clinical research. They ensure that you can share information with other team members or colleagues, relay details to stakeholders, and collaborate effectively with other professionals.  

Along with communicating complex medical or clinical information with other clinically-minded professionals, you need the ability to share complicated insights with individuals who aren’t as clinically-savvy. Not all stakeholders will be as well-versed in medical terminology or concepts, so explaining it in a way that makes sense to them is crucial to your success.  

Clinical Trial Administration  

Many clinical research scientists need skills related to the operations of a clinical trial. This can include everything from patient selection and coordination to recordkeeping to administering the trial protocol.  

In some cases, employers prefer specialty-specific experience. For example, you may need prior work in one or several disciplines, depending on the role’s needs. However, some may accept experience in other subspecialties in lieu of specific domains.  

Attention-to-Detail  

Being detail-oriented is a must for clinical research scientists. Not only will you need to ensure that any data you collect and enter is accurate, but you’ll also need the ability to review any data to spot errors, note trends, and more. Attention-to-detail increases overall accuracy, as well as assists you with identifying discrepancies or patterns within the data.  

Ultimately, all of the skills above are crucial for clinical research scientists. 

Find a Clinical Research Job Near You 

 If you’re looking for a clinical research position, the team at Alpha Consulting can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our knowledgeable staff today and see how our expertise can benefit you.