Wants to be a clinical research nurse

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Since you're already a Registered Nurse (RN), you're on the right track, but to become a clinical research nurse, there are some additional steps and qualifications to consider:

Clinical Research Certification

To gain an edge in your resume, consider obtaining your  Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Certification, which doesn't require experience for eligibility.

Some universities and healthcare organizations offer specialized courses in clinical research, or you could look for programs in clinical research coordination or clinical trials management.

Work Experience in Clinical Research

While your 8 years of bedside nursing experience provide valuable skills, working in clinical research requires exposure to clinical trials and research protocols. Here's how you can gain experience:

•  Major hospitals and academic research centers often have clinical research positions in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and other large cities. 
•  Look for entry-level clinical research nurse jobs to start.
• Look for opportunities with Contract Research Organizations (CROs) or pharmaceutical companies that conduct clinical trials.
• Internships/volunteering. If possible, seek internships or volunteer positions in clinical research settings. Some research institutes and hospitals offer short-term opportunities that can help you gain relevant experience.
• Work in a research unit. Consider applying for research positions within hospitals or health systems.

Canada has several prestigious hospitals with dedicated clinical research units. Some of the top hospitals and research institutes where you can find clinical research opportunities include:

• University Health Network (Toronto General, Toronto Western)
• St. Michael's Hospital
• The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
• BC Children's Hospital
• McGill University Health Centre (MUHC)
• Hamilton Health Sciences
• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Diploma

Leverage your clinical research and regulatory affairs knowledge in your applications. This can help make you a unique candidate for research positions that require regulatory expertise. Your postgraduate diploma may be highly beneficial in this background.  You can have your diploma assessed by World Education Services  (WES) or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) to compare it to Canadian standards.

Networking in the Clinical Research Field

Join professional organizations. Consider joining professional organizations such as the International Association of Clinical Research Nurses, the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), or the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA). These organizations offer networking opportunities, resources, and continuing education. 

Join the Canadian Association of Clinical Research Professionals (CACRP) for networking and learning more about job opportunities and certification in Canada.

Attend conferences and workshops. Participating in industry conferences and seminars is an excellent way to stay current on the latest trends and advancements in clinical research and connect with professionals in the field.

Useful Resource

ClinicalTrials.gov is an excellent resource for learning about ongoing clinical trials and the organizations that run them.

With your nursing background and expertise in clinical research, you're well-suited to move into the clinical research nursing field. By focusing on gaining practical experience and building industry connections, you will be well-positioned to achieve your career aspirations.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth