There are several reasons why you might consider becoming a clinical research associate who specializes in oncology trials:
- Make a difference in the fight against cancer: As a CRA working on oncology trials, you will be involved in testing new treatments and therapies that can potentially save lives and improve the quality of life for cancer patients. This can be an extremely rewarding and fulfilling career path, as you will be contributing to the development of new cancer treatments that can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.
- High demand for oncology clinical research: Oncology is a field with a high demand for clinical research due to the prevalence of cancer and the need for effective treatments. This means that there are many job opportunities available for CRAs who specialize in oncology trials.
- Competitive salary: Because of the high demand for oncology clinical research, the salaries for CRAs who specialize in oncology trials are often competitive. This can provide you with a stable and lucrative career path. The salary can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and the specific employer or industry.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for clinical research coordinators and monitors (which includes CRAs) was $71,490 as of May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $44,600 to over $126,000 per year. Glassdoor, a website that provides salary information based on user-submitted data, reports an average base salary of $76,697 per year for clinical research associates with a focus on oncology trials in the United States. However, this figure may not be representative of all regions, employers, or levels of experience.
Continual learning opportunities: As a CRA working in oncology trials, you will have the opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in cancer treatment and research. This can be an exciting and intellectually stimulating career path that allows you to continually develop your knowledge and skills.
- Career advancement opportunities: As you gain experience as a CRA in oncology trials, you may have the opportunity to take on more senior roles, such as project management or leadership positions. This can provide you with further career advancement opportunities and the potential for increased responsibilities and compensation.
Overall, becoming a CRA who specializes in oncology trials can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path that provides you with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer, while also offering competitive salary, continual learning opportunities, and career advancement potential.