What does a clinical trial project manager do?

Well-structured clinical trials have always been a cornerstone of the life sciences industry. Yet with projects becoming increasingly complex, competition intensifying and public/governmental pressure to improve standards, this area is set to become more challenging in the coming years.

In fact, international health organisations are establishing programs that deal with drug safety and their rollout across the globe. For example, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has rolled out the “Medication Without Harm” initiative in order to promote better processes and standards for medications - including the use of more extensive and thorough clinical trials.

Clinical Trial Project Managers play a major role in supporting these ambitious targets and pursuing a project manager career can be both challenging and rewarding. In this article, we explore the key role that Clinical Trial Project Managers play in clinical trials and the steps you can take to start or progress in this area.

Clinical Trial Project Manager: Responsibilities

Clinical Trail Project Managers can have a broad range of responsibilities, each differing slightly depending on the business they work for and the projects they work on. However, there are some commonalities across the board for those that find themselves in these roles.

For example, at the core of their responsibilities, all Clinical Trial Project Managers are responsible for leading clinical studies. This also typically includes supporting the planning, set up and coordination processes of clinical trials. Depending on the business/sector you work in, this may include leading trials on medical devices, medicines or nutritional products.

Other responsibilities may include:

• Developing and managing budgets
• Ensuring trials are conducted in line with industry guidelines and legislation
• Identifying and mitigating potential trial risks
• Support patient eligibility checks
• Resolving protocol deviation issues
• Acting as the main point of contact for sponsors and project teams
• Assisting in the preparation of Clinical Study Reports (CSRs)
• Reporting on clinical trial progress
• Negotiation with suppliers
• Supporting the creation of clinical trial proposals
• Support the general running of clinical trials and help overcome any potential issues

Why are Clinical Trial Project Managers important?

Clinical Trial Project Managers are key in ensuring the smooth running and successful completion of these trials within the CRO space and they’re playing an increasingly pivotal role as the market develops.

Clinical trials undertook a key role in overcoming the covid-19 pandemic. The rapid approach to getting vaccines approved has drastically changed how these types of trials are approached. A call for faster, but more comprehensive trials is a big challenge that Clinical Trail Project Managers can help overcome.

There are three main reasons why Clinical Trial Project Managers are so important within clinical trials:

1. They ensure that best practices and legislation are followed, improving the strength of the trial and its results
2. They facilitate the smooth running of trials, ensuring the project team can focus on their area of expertise
3. They support clear communication between trial sponsors and project teams, ensuring transparency and ongoing support

Ultimately, a Clinical Trial Project Manager acts as the glue that holds clinical trials together.

Roles at ICON: Clinical Trial Manager jobs

Clinical Trial Project Manager careers can be highly exciting and rewarding. The roles we have available at ICON allow individuals like you to become part of our shared mission to save lives and improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world. Whether you are just starting out or you are a seasoned Clinical Trials Manager, joining us will allow you to make a positive contribution.