Clinical Research Associate - South East
Clinical Research Associate - South East

Clinical Research Associate - South East

Full-Time 37000 - 46000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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MSD in the UK

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead clinical studies, ensuring compliance and building strong site relationships.
  • Company: Join a leading company dedicated to high-quality clinical research.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, mentorship, and opportunities for growth in a collaborative environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in clinical research while travelling and expanding your expertise.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and experience in site management required.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on continuous improvement and professional development.

The predicted salary is between 37000 - 46000 ÂŁ per year.

Location: South East England

Travel: Approximately 65–75% (about 2–3 days per week, domestic and international)

About our company

Our company is committed to advancing high-quality clinical research that upholds ICH/GCP standards and local regulatory requirements. We collaborate across global and regional teams to deliver studies with excellence, integrity, and patient safety at the core.

Role overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Clinical Research Associate (CRA) to lead performance and compliance for assigned protocols and sites within the South East. Under the oversight of the CRA Manager or Clinical Research Director (CRD), you will serve as the primary site contact throughout all phases of clinical studies, ensuring rigorous adherence to ICH/GCP, local regulations, company policies, quality standards, and adverse event reporting requirements. You will own allocated sites, expand our clinical research territory by identifying new sites, and contribute as a subject matter expert on monitoring processes and systems across internal workstreams.

Key Responsibilities

  • Build and sustain strong relationships with investigative sites across all trial phases.
  • Perform site management and monitoring activities in compliance with ICH‑GCP, Sponsor SOPs, local laws/regulations, protocol, site monitoring plans, and related documents.
  • Develop deep understanding of study protocols and procedures.
  • Coordinate cross‑functional tasks to achieve Site Ready status.
  • Participate in site selection and validation; provide informed input to decisions.
  • Conduct remote and on‑site monitoring to ensure:
  • Data integrity (complete, accurate, unbiased)
  • Protection of subjects’ rights, safety, and well‑being
  • Execute validation, initiation, monitoring, and close‑out visits; document clear, comprehensive visit and non‑visit reports in a timely manner.
  • Collect, review, and monitor regulatory documentation for start‑up, maintenance, and close‑out.
  • Communicate proactively with investigators and site staff on protocol conduct, recruitment/retention, deviations, regulatory findings, audits/inspections, and site performance.
  • Identify, assess, and resolve site performance, quality, or compliance issues; elevate appropriately per the CRA escalation pathway in collaboration with CRA Manager, CRM, TA Head, and CRD.
  • Partner with internal teams (country operations, finance, regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance, legal, regional operations, HQ) and external stakeholders (vendors, IRB/IEC, regulatory authorities).
  • Maintain accurate, timely documentation in CTMS, eTMF, and other systems.
  • Act as a process SME, share best practices, drive continuous improvement, and deliver training.
  • Support and/or lead audit/inspection activities.
  • Contribute to country strategy by identifying and onboarding potential new sites; build site capabilities.
  • Mentor and buddy junior CRAs; conduct co‑monitoring and quality control visits where appropriate.
  • Qualifications and Experience

    • Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to present technical information effectively.
    • Robust knowledge of clinical research, trial phases, ICH/GCP, and local clinical research regulations and guidelines; ability to work within global, country, and regional frameworks.
    • Demonstrated mentoring and leadership capability.
    • Hands‑on knowledge of Good Documentation Practices.
    • Proven site management expertise, including independent oversight of site performance and patient recruitment.
    • High‑level monitoring skills with sound, independent professional judgment.
    • Strong IT proficiency (MS Office and clinical applications across computer, tablet, and mobile); adaptable to new tools.
    • Ability to interpret data/metrics and take appropriate action, including in virtual settings.
    • Experience conducting site motivation visits to boost enrollment.
    • Solution‑oriented approach to complex issues, capable of root‑cause analysis and implementing preventive/corrective actions.
    • Ability to mentor junior CRAs and perform co‑monitoring visits.
    • Excellent time management, organization, interpersonal skills, conflict management, and problem solving.
    • High independence across multiple protocols, sites, and therapy areas.
    • Strong sense of accountability and urgency; able to prioritize and multitask in changing environments.
    • Effective in a matrixed, multicultural setting; fosters culturally sensitive relationships.
    • Customer‑focused mindset with high standards of quality and compliance.
    • Positive, growth‑oriented, self‑driven, and professional demeanor aligned with company values.

    Education and Experience

    Bachelor’s degree (or higher) with extensive direct site management (monitoring) experience in bio/pharma/CRO.

    What We Offer

    • Opportunity to shape clinical research at high‑performing sites and contribute to global development programs.
    • A collaborative environment with growth, mentorship, and continuous improvement.
    • Competitive compensation and benefits.

    Clinical Research Associate - South East employer: MSD in the UK

    Our company is an exceptional employer for Clinical Research Associates in South East England, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that prioritises employee growth and mentorship. With competitive compensation and benefits, we empower our team to shape the future of clinical research while ensuring patient safety and compliance at the forefront of our mission.
    MSD in the UK

    Contact Detail:

    MSD in the UK Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Clinical Research Associate - South East

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the clinical research field on LinkedIn or at industry events. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research the company and its recent studies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around ICH/GCP standards.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Showcase your site management skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you’ve successfully managed sites or resolved compliance issues. This will demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving abilities.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team.

    We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Research Associate - South East

    Clinical Research Knowledge
    ICH/GCP Compliance
    Site Management
    Monitoring Skills
    Regulatory Documentation
    Communication Skills
    Data Integrity Assurance
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Mentoring and Leadership
    Good Documentation Practices
    Time Management
    Interpersonal Skills
    Adaptability to New Tools
    Root Cause Analysis
    Customer-Focused Mindset

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Clinical Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in clinical research, site management, and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about clinical research and how your background aligns with our values at StudySmarter. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!

    Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey complex information clearly. Whether it's in your CV or cover letter, we want to see your knack for effective communication!

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!

    How to prepare for a job interview at MSD in the UK

    ✨Know Your Protocols Inside Out

    Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the study protocols and procedures relevant to the role. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance with ICH/GCP standards.

    ✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills

    As a Clinical Research Associate, building strong relationships with investigative sites is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed site relationships in the past, highlighting your communication skills and ability to resolve conflicts.

    ✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions

    Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of specific instances where you identified and resolved site performance or compliance issues, and be ready to discuss the actions you took and the outcomes.

    ✨Demonstrate Your IT Proficiency

    Since the role requires strong IT skills, be prepared to discuss your experience with clinical applications and data management systems. Highlight any specific tools you've used and how you've adapted to new technologies in your previous roles.

    Clinical Research Associate - South East
    MSD in the UK
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