Usually requires a Bachelor degree in Medicine/Medical sciences, Health Sciences, Nursing, Psychology or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements is required. Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices and procedures within a particular field. Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Work under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
Average Hourly
$18.46
Range Hourly
$11.21 – $31.38
Average Yearly
$35,997
Range Yearly
$21,865 – $61,195
Post-secondary teaching and research assistants (4012)
Post-secondary research assistant
University research assistant
Bachelor’s degree in Health Science or equivalent subjects
Master’s degree preferred
Average hourly |
Range hourly |
Average yearly |
Range yearly |
$18.46 |
$11.21 - $31.38 |
$35,997 |
$21,865 - $61,195 |
Medium
Employment outlook is good to fair in most provinces. More information are available here.
Depends on employment area i.e., government, pharmaceuticals, research management, or clinical research. However, each path likely to need more education and experience.
One-two years of relevant experience are usually required
There are different certificate programs available in different institutes. However, majority of them are online, they teach basic clinical research skills, research ethics and they cannot guarantee jobs after completion. Program examples:
Clinical Research Certificate Program at Michener Institute (Online, no practicum)
Clinical Research Certificate at University of Toronto (On campus and practicum included)
Clinical Trials Management at University of Waterloo (Diploma: online courses and practicum on campus; Certificate: online only, no practicum)
Clinical Research, Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance at Academy of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences (AAPS) (Online and on campus, no practicum)
Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills; team player; customer service skills; an ability to exercise judgment within established guidelines; open to learning and development; willing to accept new challenges and assignments; positive attitude; ability to work independently; analytical skills; report writing skills
Certified Clinical Research Professionals (CCRP) certificate can be obtained by a successful application and by passing a CCRP examination. However, this is an optional certification.
For an IMGs obtaining this position can start in three ways.
Connect with professors of universities through email/in-person and ask them to give opportunity for volunteering for them. If such opportunity is obtained then using the opportunity IMGs can learn research methods and activities and based on that experience obtaining a position for research assistant is doable.
Completing a standard Clinical Research Certificate program preferably with practicum and then through the connections from the program/practicum seeking such position is another way.
Obtaining a Master’s degree in Community Health/Health Sciences/Pubic Health/Psychology and then apply for such position.