Clinical Data Managers oversee the collection, management and submission of clinical data from various medical research projects, such as pharmaceutical and biotechnological trials for government approval. They ensure that data is collected, analyzed and reported accurately and securely.
Their responsibilities include designing a database for clinical trials, preparing statistical comparisons, presenting reports, generating data retrievals, supervising team members, maintaining compliance with standard operating procedures, performing clerical duties such as data entry, transcription, coding etc, and other tasks as assigned.
Clinical Data Managers work at variety of settings such as pharmaceutical companies, research and development companies, hospitals, government organizations, private companies, educational institutes etc. Since their work is collaborative in nature, regular group meetings and travelling may be required for these professionals.
Educational Requirements
To become a Clinical Data Manager, the aspiring candidates have to earn a 4-year bachelor’s degree in science with data management or information technology as a major. The common course work includes research methods, pharmacology, biology, anatomy and ethics.
The students can also pursue a master’s degree in Information Technology or a related field for better job prospects. However, most employers prefer candidates with some work experience in a medical technology or pharmaceutical companies.
Certification
The Clinical Data Manager aspirants can appear in the certification examination after completing bachelor’s degree program along with at least two years of practical work experience in clinical data management. The Society for Clinical Data Management administers the certification examination for these professional.
Skill Set
Apart from academic degree, a Clinical Data Manager possesses various traits such as knowledge in clinical and manufacturing practices, command in clinical research, understanding of trial process and related regulations, excellent leadership quality, ability to establish and maintain cordial relation with team members, strong written and verbal communication skills, project management abilities, competence in computer programming etc.
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook for a Clinical Data Manager remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 27% during 2012-2022. The average annual salary of a Clinical Data Manager was $83,310 in May 2013.