Today’s episode highlights the power of authentic networking in clinical research. We welcome Ashley Liggion, CRA, and founder of The Research Social. Ashley shares her journey and vision for community building. She created The Research Social to address isolation in clinical research. As we know, many CRAs, coordinators, and researchers often feel alone in their roles. Ashley saw this gap and chose to act.

At The Research Social, networking takes place in relaxed, real-life settings. There is no need for business attire or scripted introductions. Attendees simply connect over activities like bowling, karaoke, or casual hangouts in cities nationwide. Real friendships form here, making professional connections feel easy and natural. Events often leave members recharged and inspired to support each other.

Ashley shares how she manages the demands of a CRA career while running her platform. She discusses her motivation and highlights the fulfillment that comes from building something meaningful. The group then examines larger industry challenges. Barriers to entry and fake certification programs often confuse newcomers. As a result, mentorship and honest guidance are essential for navigating clinical research.

We discuss how The Research Social offers a solution. It provides not just camaraderie but also resources for newcomers and seasoned professionals. Listeners receive clear advice on joining supportive networks and growing within the clinical research field.

The Research Social shows that networking need not feel forced. One city, one event at a time, this community brings research professionals together. Listen today and learn more about this organization as well as receive actionable insights into the power of community-driven support, the importance of peer mentorship, and strategies for tackling the hidden hurdles in clinical research careers.

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

The post Podcast: Real Connections – The Research Social appeared first on craresources.

Today, we are honored to feature Alisha Moore, a dedicated Clinical Research Professional who recognized a critical unmet need within underserved communities and took action. Across our industry, there are persistent gaps, particularly in public education about clinical research and in the availability of career development resources for professionals. Alisha did not simply observe these gaps; she stepped forward to address them.

What if you could redirect your job search toward a path that not only fulfills you personally but also offers stability and the chance to solve real-world challenges? Imagine leveraging your expertise to create meaningful change within underserved communities and your field.

Tune in now to hear Alisha Moore’s remarkable story. Join us as we explore how Alisha made this pivotal career shift. Discover what unique skills and insights empowered her to step confidently into uncharted territory. Learn how her experience can inspire and guide your own journey.

Be inspired—perhaps today’s conversation will encourage you to consider a pivot of your own.

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

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Welcome to today’s episode! If you have ever wondered about the buzzwords “automation” and “artificial intelligence” and what they really mean for the Clinical Research Associate role, you are in the right place. Join us as our special guest, Anna-Liisa Parts, breaks down the differences between these two concepts in a simple, non-technical way.

And importantly, we talk honestly about the fears and excitement swirling around AI in our industry.

Let’s face it: there is a lot of uncertainty about how AI might change the way our CRAs work. But what if, instead of replacing the clinical research associate role, these tools could actually help CRAs? Imagine a world where automation takes care of those repetitive, time-consuming administrative tasks, thus freeing CRAs up to focus on what truly matters: building strong site relationships and using critical thinking skills to ensure studies run smoothly.

We all know that being human means we sometimes make mistakes. But with the right tools, like automated checks for signatures or form versions, CRAs can catch those little errors before they become big problems. It isn’t about replacing CRAs; it is about making CRAs even better at what they do. Think of automation as your trusty sidekick, helping you become a superhero in your role.

So, whether you are curious, concerned, or just excited about the future, join us as we explore how automation and artificial intelligence can empower CRAs, making your work not just easier but even more impactful. Let’s get started!

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

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Listen to the Podcast That’s Leading the Conversation

The last decade has transformed the clinical research landscape, and nowhere is that more evident than in the evolving Clinical Research Associate (CRA) role. Once known as the “road warriors” of clinical trials, today’s CRAs face a new reality: decentralized trials, remote data collection, and a surge in trial complexity have fundamentally changed what it means to monitor and manage studies.

But with these changes come new challenges. CRAs are reporting record levels of overwhelm, overwork, and burnout as they juggle multiple projects, tight deadlines, and ever-increasing documentation demands. The pressure is mounting, and the industry is searching for solutions.

Meet Anna-Liisa Parts and Menken Trials: Support Champions for the CRA Role

Enter Anna-Liisa Parts, co-founder of Menken Trials. Drawing on more than a decade of hands-on experience in clinical operations, Anna-Liisa and her team have made it their mission to support CRAs and the entire clinical research ecosystem. Menken Trials was born from a simple but powerful idea: the heroes of clinical trials deserve better tools, smarter workflows, and genuine support.

Menken Trials empowers CRAs, study sites, and CROs with cutting-edge automation, streamlining essential document management, automating repetitive compliance checks, and providing real-time alerts for issues before they become audit findings. Their solutions don’t just lighten the paperwork load; they free up CRAs to focus on what matters most: quality, oversight, and patient safety.

Why Tune In?

• Get Real About CRA Burnout: Hear candid discussions on why burnout is rising and what can be done to prevent it.
• Learn From Industry Leaders: Anna-Liisa Parts shares her journey, insights, and practical strategies for supporting CRAs in today’s fast-paced environment.
• Discover the Power of Automation: Explore how Menken Trials’ technology is transforming clinical trial operations—automating routine tasks, reducing errors, and ensuring continuous audit readiness.
• Empower Your Site or CRO: Whether you’re a CRA, site manager, or CRO executive, learn how to leverage the latest tools to accelerate study execution and boost data quality.

Don’t Miss Out, Join the Movement

If you’re a CRA feeling the strain, a site leader seeking efficiency, or an industry professional ready to embrace the future, this podcast is for you. Discover how the right support and technology can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

The post Podcast: The CRA Role Is Changing-Are You Ready? appeared first on craresources.

…and why engaging with the TASK Research Academy is essential for clinical research professionals.

We were privileged to have a special guest, Karen Cloete, founder of the TASK Research Academy, on our program.  This wonderful program offers a unique, immersive learning experience. And yes, the programs are designed for clinical research professionals at all stages of their careers. The Academy’s courses are internationally accredited and cover the entire clinical trial lifecycle. Their programs ensure learners gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in a highly regulated industry.

Experience-Driven and Flexible Learning

The Academy’s training methods are innovative and interactive. Their offerings utilize real-life scenarios, simulation, animation, and virtual role-play. The organization’s approach allows professionals to make mistakes and learn in a safe environment, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.

Additionally, TASK offers flexible, self-paced eLearning options, making it accessible for both busy professionals and organizations.

Industry-Relevant and Globally Aligned

TASK Research Academy works closely with an international task force of industry stakeholders. Their goal is to ensure that course content is aligned with the needs of sponsors, CROs, and research sites worldwide. This alignment means graduates are equipped with the competencies, attitudes, and skills that employers demand, enhancing both individual career prospects and organizational workforce quality.

Boosts Quality, Compliance, and Career Growth

GCP training from TASK ensures professionals understand and adhere to ethical and scientific standards, minimizing errors and safeguarding data integrity. Certification from the Academy signals a commitment to excellence, increasing professional credibility and opening doors to diverse roles in the global clinical research landscape.

Testimonials and Impact

Learners consistently praise the Academy’s courses for their clarity, relevance, and ability to boost confidence, whether they’re newcomers or seasoned professionals seeking a refresher. The training not only prepares individuals for their roles but also accelerates career development and supports ongoing competency.

In Summary

TASK Research Academy is revolutionizing clinical research training by providing:

• Immersive, experience-driven learning

• Internationally accredited, industry-aligned courses

• Flexible, accessible eLearning for all career stages

• Practical skills and GCP certification to ensure quality and compliance

• Career pathway programs that fast-track professional growth

For clinical research professionals and organizations aiming for excellence, TASK Research Academy is the partner of choice to build competence, confidence, and a successful future in clinical trials.

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

The post Podcast: Introduction to TASK Research Academy appeared first on craresources.

As we struggle to help identify a clear career pathway for those who want to become clinical research associates, I often wonder about the unsung heroes in our industry. I also wonder why these unsung heroes don’t get as much visibility as CRAs because their jobs are so incredibly important! 

The first role that comes to mind is that of a Study Coordinator. I feel the role of a clinical research coordinator (CRC) is one of the most important in our industry. The CRC is often the first person a study participant will meet and their compassionate engagement with patients can make or break a study. 

The TMF Specialist is also a critical role…especially in our current electronic world. We teamed up with Nicole Palmer to dig into the role of the TMF specialist. Nicole is the CEO and founder of Granular Level as well as the Host of TMF Daily Podcast. She peels back the veil on the day-to-day function of the TMF specialist role including how to successfully navigate into this particular career path.

And there are so many other critical roles within our industry: In-House CRAs, Clinical Trial Assistants, Data Entry Specialists, and Startup Specialists to just name a few. These various roles not only have an impact on our industry but also the recruited subjects and their family. Join us as we sing the praises (and discuss the career paths) of these industry-specific unsung heroes.

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

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The ACRP has done a wonderful job putting together a core competency framework for Clinical Study Monitoring. One particular domain covers communication and teamwork skills. In general, this competency area covers relationships and communication with clinical study team members and investigative site staff. 

The ACRP’s specific expectations within this competency include the ability to:

• Communicate effectively to resolve compliance issues.
• Provide clear and technically accurate information and instructions – both orally and in writing. 
• Maintain timely communications. 
• Engage in effective discussions. 
• Demonstrate attentive and active listening skills.
• Abide by the project’s communication plan and pathway. 

Interestingly, I have never interviewed a candidate who has openly admitted they need to improve their communication skills. And almost everyone we interview feels their teamwork skills are excellent. However, poor teamwork or communication skills are a top ‘trip and fall’ of our CRAs, resulting in about 20% of our terminations. 

Join us today as we discuss some of the basic blunders we see in this space. We also provide some excellent ways to improve your communication and teamwork soft skills. And for those who may be conducting a job search, be sure to properly prepare to highlight these skills in an interview. 

Listen to Secrets of a CRA Recruiter on Your Favorite Channel! 

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This past week I had an individual contact me through LinkedIn asking to be considered for some of our open Clinical Research Associate positions. His foundations were terrific but he met none of the qualifications of our industry CRA positions.

The rub…he didn’t understand that he was extremely underqualified.

Are our Clinical Research Associate candidates confused?

His inquiry made me wonder – is there confusion when it comes to the role of a CRA? We often see sites and academic institutions call their patient-facing research coordinators Clinical Research Associates. In addition, we are seeing Sponsors and CROs move further away from using the CRA title, using terms like Clinical Site Managers, Site Relationship and Excellence Partners, and Clinical Site Ambassadors.

Maybe it is time to help better define roles within our industry – starting with that of an Industry CRA. Our team held a round table to discuss the topic as well as provide some valuable insight for those of you who are seeking a CRA role. We hope this is helpful and want to hear your thoughts!

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You have heard us say it before – Competent CRAs are great public speakers! But becoming an effective public speaker isn’t magical. We have addressed overcoming the fear of public speaking and why you should seek public speaking opportunities. Now we dig into how to engage your audience.

We sat down with one of our favorite people, Elizabeth Weeks-Rowe to discuss this very important topic. Elizabeth has been in this industry for over twenty years and is a highly respected and sought-after speaker on industry topics. With such a passion for speaking, Elizabeth is well-positioned to share outstanding tips and tricks that will surely help you successfully engage any audience.

We hope you enjoy it!

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When outsourcing your clinical studies, should you consider establishing an oversight monitoring plan?  We work with some outstanding Sponsors who did not…and the results were disastrous.

So when do you need an oversight monitoring program? In this recording of one of our most popular articles on the topic, we discuss a specific case study which will help you make the right decision for your company and projects.

We discuss the ‘why’ as well as the cost and methodology to implement.  We hope you enjoy!

Here is another article that may be of interest – how to conduct a study without a CRO.

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