Clinical research coordinators manage the details that keep research studies running smoothly. You organize participants, document findings, and communicate across teams. The work requires a bachelor's degree and strong attention to detail, but offers meaningful impact in advancing medicine.
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Clinical research coordinators support the studies that test new treatments and advance medical knowledge. You organize study schedules, recruit and track participants, and document every step of the research process. You gather information from medical records and interviews, monitor how participants are progressing, and communicate updates to supervisors and team members. Much of your day involves working with computers to record data and manage records. You also help ensure studies follow all required procedures and regulations. The role sits at the center of the research team, keeping everything coordinated and on track.
Core work activities
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Clinical Research Coordinators earn a median of $167,220 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 8,500 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree to start as a clinical research coordinator. Your education should include coursework in biology, medicine, or related sciences, along with strong writing and communication skills. Job Zone 4 preparation means you'll need considerable training and experience. Look for entry-level positions in hospitals, research centers, or pharmaceutical companies where you can learn the specific protocols and systems used in clinical research. Many coordinators start by assisting experienced researchers, then move into independent coordination roles as they gain knowledge of regulatory requirements and study management.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree in a science or health field. If you're deciding what to study or where to apply, Pathly can map the clinical research coordinator path that fits you to map out your next steps with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a clinical research coordinator, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to investigative work that involves solving problems and understanding how things work. Clinical research lets you dig into data, ask critical questions, and contribute to scientific discovery.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).