A clinical research associate (CRA), also called a clinical monitor or trial monitor, is a health-care professional who performs many activities related to medical research, particularly clinical trials. Clinical research associates work in various settings, such as pharmaceutical companies, medical research institutes and government agencies. Depending on the jurisdiction, different education and certification requirements may be necessary to practice as a clinical research associate. The main tasks of the CRA are defined by good clinical practice guidelines for monitoring clinical trials, such as those elaborated by the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use. A CRA would subsequently grow into a Feasibility Leader, Study Start up Leader, Project Manager, and Project Director at a Pharmaceutical company or a contract research organization. A CRA is usually required to possess an academic degree in Life Sciences and needs to have a good knowledge of good clinical practice and local regulations. Overview The main function of a clinical research associate is to monitor clinical trials. The CRA may work directly with the sponsor company of a clinical trial, as an independent freelancer or for a contract research organization (CRO). A clinical research associate ensures compliance with the clinical trial protocol, checks clinical site activities, makes on-site visits, reviews case report forms (CRFs), and communicates with clinical research coordinators. Clinical research associates also "ensure the protection of the rights, safety and well being of human study subjects." Additionally, a CRA must "make certain that the scientific integrity of the data collected is protected and verified" and "ensure that adverse events are correctly documented and reported." A CRA is usually required to possess an academic degree in Life Sciences and needs to have a good knowledge of good clinical practice and local regulations. Certification and practice Canada The Canadian Association of Clinical Research Specialists (CACRS) is a federally registered professional association in Canada (Reg. #779602-1). The CACRS is a not-for-profit organization that promotes and advocates on behalf of its members in the field of Clinical Research and Clinical Trials. The CACRS has a comprehensive accreditation program including the Clinical Research Specialist (CRS) designation, which is a professional title conferred by passing a qualifying exam. Applicants holding a doctorate degree in medicine or science are required 2 years of prior experience whereas bachelor's degree holders are required 3 years of prior experience prior to taking the qualifying exam. European Union In