What is a Research Coordinator Job?
Research coordinator jobs are positions that involve overseeing and managing research studies within an organization. These specialists are responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the research study are conducted in accordance with established protocols, regulations, and guidelines. They work closely with research teams to plan, coordinate, and execute research projects.
What Do You Usually Do in This Position?
As a research coordinator, your duties may vary depending on the organization you work for and the specific research project you are working on. However, some common tasks include:
- Developing research protocols and study designs
- Recruiting and enrolling study participants
- Collecting and analyzing research data
- Ensuring that the research study is conducted in accordance with ethical and regulatory guidelines
- Coordinating with other members of the research team, such as investigators and data analysts
- Preparing reports and presentations on research findings
Top 5 Skills for the Position
To excel in a research coordinator role, you should possess the following skills:
- Attention to detail: You will need to ensure that all aspects of the research study are conducted accurately and in accordance with established protocols.
- Strong communication skills: You will need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, such as study participants, investigators, and other members of the research team.
- Time management: You will need to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
- Knowledge of research methods and ethics: You will need to understand research design, data collection, and analysis methods, as well as ethical and regulatory guidelines.
- Analytical skills: You will need to be able to analyze and interpret research data to draw meaningful conclusions.
How to Become a Research Coordinator
To become a research coordinator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as psychology, biology, or public health. Some organizations may require a master's degree or relevant work experience in addition to a bachelor's degree.
You may also need to obtain certification in research coordination. The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) offers the Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) certification, which requires passing an exam and meeting specific education and experience requirements.
Average Salary
According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a research coordinator is around $51,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific organization you work for.
Roles and Types
Research coordinator jobs can be found in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, healthcare organizations, and private research firms. Some common types of research coordinator roles include:
- Clinical research coordinator: These specialists oversee clinical trials and studies involving human subjects.
- Social science research coordinator: These specialists oversee research studies in fields such as psychology, sociology, and anthropology.
- Biomedical research coordinator: These specialists oversee research studies in fields such as biology, pharmacology, and genetics.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
According to Indeed, some of the top locations for research coordinator jobs in the United States include:
- New York, NY
- Boston, MA
- Chicago, IL
- San Francisco, CA
- Washington, DC
What are the Typical Tools?
Research coordinators may use a variety of tools to carry out their duties, including:
- Electronic data capture systems: These systems allow researchers to collect, store, and manage research data electronically.
- Statistical analysis software: Programs such as SPSS and SAS allow researchers to analyze and interpret research data.
- Electronic health records: In clinical research studies, researchers may use electronic health records to collect and manage patient data.
- Project management software: Programs such as Asana and Trello can help research coordinators manage tasks, deadlines, and team communication.
In Conclusion
Research coordinator jobs can be rewarding positions for individuals with strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills. With a bachelor's degree and certification in research coordination, you can pursue a career in a variety of settings and fields. With the increasing demand for research studies across various industries, research coordinator jobs are expected to continue to grow in popularity.