Medical Research Assistant
Individuals that want to start a career in medicine can supplement their school studies by getting real work experience by becoming a medical research assistant. Employers for this type of position include hospitals and laboratories. Most research assistants typically focus on at least one research project and works on a contract basis or until their schooling ends. A medical research assistant can have various types of responsibilities and duties.
Student Interests
Students that want to find work as a medical research assistant should look for positions that will complement their areas of study or particular area of medicine. This allows the student to learn more about a particular branch of medicine and increase their knowledge. Organizations such as hospitals and other large medical facilities often have a research department that concentrates or is oriented on finding causes and treatments for certain types of medical conditions and diseases.
Clinical Research
Individuals that are looking for a medical research assistant may find a position that involves clinical research studies. These studies are often conducted by various drug or pharmaceutical companies to study the effectiveness of a particular type of drug. This position involves helping find suitable candidates for clinical studies and gathering various types of data during the study period.
Doctor's Office
Some doctor's offices may have the need for a medical research assistant especially if the there is an interest in alternative medicine. Medical research assistants may also be needed to research the current advances in treatments for various types of conditions. A person working in this position may be expected to research all available treatment options for a particular condition and then provide a report of their findings.
Required Skills or Knowledge
Individuals that are looking for a medical research assistant position may require certain knowledge and skills or a combination of both. Many medical facilities, such as hospitals, typically employ or pre-medical students or individuals that are just starting their medical studies. Most employers are either looking for an individual who has had previous clinical research experience, has earned their associates degree or is currently an undergraduate student.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a medical research assistant can vary depending on the needs of a particular employer. Individuals may be required to assist with obtaining nasal or throat swabs and performing various types of laboratory procedures. Requirements may also include performing various tasks such as obtaining consent from research study participants and completing assigned duties. Individuals that work as a medical research assistant can earn a wage for their work or apply for an internship.
