Despite the world economic crisis, the clinical research field is currently expanding faster than the introduction of newly qualified professionals that inevitably creates a demand. Most people are under the impression that the barriers to enter this industry are extremely difficult to overcome, but the truth is that everybody working in this industry had to start somewhere and as the industry grows positions need to be filled. Now the question is: how will this be accomplished? One way of filling the vacuum is to take specialists from other professions and turn them into professionals for this industry. This has several added benefits. For instance bringing specialists from other professions or industries actually diversifies the workforce and brings new perspectives to the biopharmaceutical industry. This in turn is a source of innovation where multiple disciplines are brought together and new perspectives are made more apparent.
Of course, the need for training is obvious for specialists that are re-aligning their careers as well as for individuals that are entering the industry as new graduates. Most of the skills and knowledge required in positions such as CRAs, Clinical Data Managers (CDMs), Quality Assurance (QAs) and Marketing Managers are not covered in university courses. Even where an individual has been through a specially designed training program for the position through an academic institution, the training may not involve a practical component in which case the individual still lacks certain skills. This should re-emphasize the importance of practical training programs for the biopharmaceutical industry.
The educational system does not appear to produce enough graduates to meet the demand for entry-level positions like CRA, Data Manager Specialists, Quality Assurance Specialists and Marketing and Management specialists. Skill shortages also affect the ability of regulatory agencies to keep abreast of scientific advances and to efficiently review the increasing number of new products. The diverse range of skills required along with the dramatic pace of change is not reflected in current university courses. The shortage of specialists can be felt in other areas as well. One of the goals of the International Biopharmaceutical Association is to provide assistance for professionals seeking to join the industry.
You need to have the right educational background to enter this lucrative industry.
A life science degree (especially pharmacology, pharmacy, biochemistry, biology, immunology, physiology, or toxicology) or nursing degree is one of the requirements to become a clinical research professional. Computer or IT degree will be an asset to start career as a clinical data manager. Chemistry, engineering are suitable backgrounds for Quality Assurance. Commerce, marketing and business management - for marketing and management career. Other science degrees may be accepted. Please visit www.ibpassociation.org site for more information on careers in clinical research.