JUMP TO CONTENT
Data wires

A Day in the Life of a Clinical Data Science Programmer

Posting date: 18/03/2025
ICON Plc company logo
Author: Inside ICON

    A Day in the Life of a Senior Lead Clinical Data Science Programmer

In the ever-evolving world of clinical research, professionals with specialized technical skills play a crucial role in advancing healthcare innovations. Today, we're spotlighting Punitha Margaret, a Senior Lead Clinical Data Science Programmer at ICON's Chennai office, who shares her professional journey and experiences that have shaped her career in clinical data science.

A Journey of Growth

Punitha has been with ICON for over a year, but her career path demonstrates the diverse opportunities available within the clinical research industry. Starting as a Senior Report Programmer, she was deeply involved in creating, validating, and maintaining clinical trial reports - establishing the foundation for her expertise in clinical data management.

"I've always had a strong passion for programming and the intersection of data science with real-world applications," Punitha reflects. "Early in my career, I recognized the profound impact that accurate data and clear reporting can have on the development of new treatments and improving patient outcomes."

Her dedication and skills soon led to a promotion to Principal Report Programmer, where she took on greater responsibility, overseeing more complex programming tasks and automations.

Expanding Beyond Technical Boundaries

Not content with limiting herself to technical roles, Punitha sought to broaden her understanding of clinical processes. This ambition led her to transition into the role of Senior Business Analyst, where she applied her technical background to more strategic responsibilities.

"As I progressed, I discovered how much I enjoyed the unique challenges of programming and reporting in clinical trials, particularly in ensuring data integrity, efficiency, and the clarity of reports," she says.

In her current position as Senior Lead Clinical Data Science Programmer, Punitha leads teams of programmers, manages complex projects, and oversees the creation of clinical trial reports from inception to completion. Her responsibilities include ensuring accuracy, integrity, and regulatory compliance of clinical data while mentoring junior and senior team members.

Professional Development at ICON

When asked about how ICON supports her professional development, Punitha highlights the company's approach to role diversification.

"ICON offers valuable opportunities for role diversification, which is crucial for my professional development. This approach allows me to take on different roles within the company, broadening my skill set and providing a well-rounded understanding of how the organisation operates."

Punitha also appreciates ICON's investment in continued learning through access to conferences, industry events, and internal networking opportunities. These resources help her expand her professional connections and gain valuable perspectives from others in the industry.

Work-Life Balance and Supportive Culture

Beyond career growth, Punitha values the quality of life that working at ICON provides.

"What keeps me at ICON is the excellent work-life balance and the supportive work culture. The flexibility allows me to maintain a healthy personal life while staying productive and engaged at work."

She emphasizes that ICON's positive, inclusive culture fosters a sense of belonging, making it easy to stay motivated and committed to her work - essential factors for long-term career satisfaction in the demanding field of clinical research.

The Passion Behind the Profession

At the heart of Punitha's career is a genuine passion for the work she does. "I enjoy problem-solving, managing large datasets, and mentoring others to improve their skills, all while contributing to critical research that can directly affect patient lives," she explains.

This combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and commitment to improving healthcare outcomes through data exemplifies the type of professionals who thrive at ICON Clinical Research.

Looking to build your career in clinical data science or explore other opportunities in clinical research? View ICON's Clinical Data job opportunities today to learn more about our open positions and how you can join our global team of healthcare innovation professionals.
List #1

Related jobs at ICON

Senior Quality Assurance Specialist

Salary

Location

Spain, Barcelona

Department

Language Services

Location

Prague

Warsaw

Barcelona

Reading

Remote Working

Office or Home

Business Area

ICON Full Service & Corporate Support

Job Categories

Quality Assurance

Job Type

Permanent

Description

We are currently seeking a Senior Quality Assurance Specialist to join our dynamic team. You will play a critical role in ensuring and advancing quality across ICON’s Language Services department. Rep

Reference

JR132675

Expiry date

01/01/0001

Rowena Deswert Read more Shortlist Save this role
Clinical Research Coordinator

Salary

Location

US, Hickory, NC

Location

Hickory

Remote Working

Office Based

Business Area

ICON Full Service & Corporate Support

Job Categories

Clinical Research Site Services

Job Type

Permanent

Description

Accellacare, ICON's clinical research network, provides greater access to patients and multi-specialty physicians for our customers. This network of research sites offers proven support and infrastruc

Reference

JR131934

Expiry date

01/01/0001

Sasha Brown

Author

Sasha Brown
Sasha Brown

Author

Sasha Brown
Read more Shortlist Save this role
Site Contracts Lead

Salary

Location

US,Boston(KCR)

Department

Full Service - Corporate Support

Location

Boston

Remote Working

Office or Home

Business Area

ICON Full Service & Corporate Support

Job Categories

Contracts Administration

Job Type

Permanent

Description

Summary of Job SpecificationThe Site Contracts Lead is responsible for assisting and supporting the facilitation and implementation of the strategy of the Site Contracts function as finalized by Direc

Reference

JR131554

Expiry date

01/01/0001

Michael Hartley Read more Shortlist Save this role
Clinical Trial Associate

Salary

Location

United States

Department

Clinical Operations Roles

Location

United States

Remote Working

Home-Based

Business Area

ICON Strategic Solutions

Job Categories

Clinical Trial Support

Job Type

Permanent

Description

As a Clinical Trial Associate you will be joining the world’s largest & most comprehensive clinical research organisation, powered by healthcare intelligence.

Reference

2025-121184

Expiry date

01/01/0001

Brendan Hoey

Author

Brendan Hoey
Read more Shortlist Save this role
View all
List #1

Related stories

stethoscope on paper records
Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS) Demystified

Teaser label

Inside ICON

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

07/28/2025

Summary

CTMS: The Essential Tool for Clinical Research Professionals Clinical trials have rapidly evolved, accelerated by technology and digital innovation. Central to this evolution is the Clinical Tria

Teaser label

Explore the Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS), its core functions, market growth, and career advantages.

Read more
Female scientist with microscope
What is Real World Evidence?

Teaser label

Industry

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

07/21/2025

Summary

What is Real World Evidence? Understanding its Role in Clinical Research Real World Evidence (RWE) is a term increasingly being used within the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, shaping cr

Teaser label

Discover what Real World Evidence (RWE) is, and how it’s transforming clinical research.

Read more
Two medics at ICON clinical research clinic
The Strategic Role of Site Selection and Activation in Clinical Trials

Teaser label

Industry

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

07/07/2025

Summary

Precision at the Outset: The Strategic Role of Site Selection and Activation in Clinical Trials The success of any clinical trial begins well before the first patient is enrolled. Behind every sit

Teaser label

Explore the critical role of site selection and activation in clinical trials.

Read more
View all
List #1

Recently viewed jobs

Seems like you haven't looked at any jobs yet.

Click view all to see our roles.

View all
View Jobs

Browse popular job categories below or search all jobs above