How the Clinical Research Staffing Model Is Evolving

Traditionally, many professionals fell into clinical research by chance, starting at entry-level positions in the field and gradually progressing through the ranks. Now, we’re seeing a shift to a more intentional approach, where four-year bachelor degrees in clinical research are starting to emerge and more individuals are going down that path.

At its core, this shift in the clinical research staffing model shows promise for the future. An expanded talent pool gives site managers access to more candidates that have theoretical expertise, specialized skill sets, and a natural passion for the field. Access to this pool has the power to help offset some of the current staffing shortages in research.

But with more people entering the clinical research sector from a specialized academic setting, it also means they lack real-world experience that’s been standard in the past. With a steady influx of academically prepared, but inexperienced professionals, clinical research site managers are having to rethink the way they hire and do things.

Redefining Job Qualifications for Candidates

As the clinical research workforce evolves, site managers must rethink what constitutes qualified candidates. It’s a matter of balancing traditional qualifications with new clinical staffing priorities.

Alongside putting more value on formal education in clinical research, soft skills are also becoming increasingly important in clinical research recruiting. Clinical research is dynamic, with protocols, regulations, and technologies regularly in flux. Site managers will want to identify candidates able to handle this change and bring a solutions-oriented approach to the table.

Other soft skills to prioritize include:

• Critical Thinking: Research often involves troubleshooting and problem-solving, particularly when there are protocol deviations or patient challenges. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to think critically and make informed, considered decisions on the fly.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for engaging with stakeholders, including study participants, investigators, and sponsors. Candidates should be adept at explaining concepts clearly and empathetically.
• Team Collaboration: Clinical trials are a team effort, requiring coordination among interdisciplinary teams. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to work across functions and contribute to team dynamics.

Providing On-the-Job Training Opportunities

The gap between academic preparation and real-world clinical research experience presents an opportunity for clinical research sites to refine their training approaches.

With structured mentorship programs, site managers can pair new hires with seasoned staff members to foster knowledge transfer and offer hands-on learning. This helps recent graduates apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, from interacting with patients to performing compliance tasks.

Simulation-based training can also be beneficial. As part of the onboarding process, new hires can participate in mock trials where they can get their feet wet in navigating protocols, using electronic data capture systems, and responding to various challenges.

Including checklists and performance reviews throughout training can help ensure new research employees understand their progress and areas where they need to improve.

Investing More in Professional Development

Alongside real-world experience, site managers can also provide new hires with access to both internal and external resources to keep them informed and deepen their skills.

One idea: host regular training sessions on topics like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) or regulatory changes. These sessions can also come in the form of workshops that focus on deepening soft skills like patient engagement too.

As employees gain experience on the job, consider investing in leadership training. This helps prepare individuals for future managerial roles, and continues to build a robust internal pipeline for your clinical research site.

Preparing for the New Clinical Research Staffing Model

By redefining candidate qualifications, enhancing on-the-job training programs, and investing in professional development, clinical research sites can develop workforces that are well-prepared and deeply engaged in their roles. This approach will keep sites competitive and ready to adapt to the shifting demands in clinical research.