Entering the clinical research field can be confusing – but fortunately, there are excellent resources and support networks in North Carolina, Virginia, and nationally to guide you. Here are some concrete next steps and contacts to help you prepare for and land a role, including training programs, apprenticeships, professional organizations, and job boards.
|
Category |
Programs/Organizations/Platforms |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Training & Education |
B.S. in Clinical Research at UNC-Wilmington, B.S. and Certificate in Clinical Research Science at NC Central University, Post-bac Certificate in Clinical Research at Virginia Commonwealth University, Associate’s in Clinical Research at Durham Tech Community College, GCP training or certification |
Online courses + industry internships; teach trial design, conduct, and regulations; internships, graduate certificates, master’s programs, online courses in GCP and FDA regulations |
|
Internships & Apprenticeships |
Duke CRISP (Clinical Research Internship Portal), State-Registered Clinical Research Apprenticeship, university research assistant roles, summer internships with CROs or academic research centers |
Hands-on experience, on-the-job training, paid apprentices, research assistant roles in professors’ labs |
|
Professional Organizations |
ACRP (Association of Clinical Research Professionals), SOCRA (Society of Clinical Research Associates), North Carolina Biotechnology Center, Virginia Bio |
Local chapters, student memberships, mentorship programs, certifications for CRCs/CRAs, meetings, webinars, job boards, career tools, networking events |
|
Job Search Platforms |
Indeed, LinkedIn, North Carolina Biotechnology Center Job Board, Virginia Bio-Connect, ACRP Career Center, university career portals |
Search “Clinical Research,” filter entry-level, life science openings, biotech jobs and internships, clinical research positions, research job openings at hospitals |
Local contacts: For personalized guidance, your university’s career office or alumni network can be a starting point. Don’t shy from reaching out to any contacts identified through these sources; people in the clinical research field are often enthusiastic about welcoming new professionals.
Conclusion: The clinical research industry in North Carolina and Virginia is thriving, offering numerous entry-level opportunities with strong salaries and growth prospects. Roles like CRCs, CTAs, Regulatory Coordinators, and Data Coordinators are not only in demand but also serve as excellent foundations for a fulfilling career path in clinical research. By leveraging the robust network of local companies, academic institutions, and professional groups – and by equipping yourself with relevant training – you can confidently step into this field. The outlook is genuinely exciting: you’d be joining a mission-driven industry (advancing health and science!) in a region that is leading the way in clinical research growth. Good luck with your journey, and remember that every trial breakthrough or new therapy approved down the line might have started with someone like you coordinating a study or managing its data. Your contribution can make a real impact.