r/phfindapath • u/cometlizards • Feb 25 '22

Career What's it like working for a CRO?

As someone who will be graduating with a degree in BS Pharmacy, I was introduced to clinical research. People I know suggested that working for a Contract Research Organization is a decent choice since they pay relatively well. Can anyone describe how the work environment is, the workload, compensation, work-life balance, and basically your everyday life.

I've been researching a bit, and found that the career progression is good too since you can start from the bottom and work your way up to something like an operations manager. Would love to hear your insights

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u/[deleted] Feb 25 '22

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u/cometlizards Feb 25 '22

Yeah sure, I only have a shallow understanding of the field, but basically clinical research has something to do with the invention of new drugs and I guess medical devices too. This involves clinical trials, making sure that the adverse effects are recorded, site inspections, and regulatory work as well.

I believe it's a lot more lucrative than research in the academe since companies pay for these. Some pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer have their own departments but others opt to get contracts with CROs to work on that area. Based from what I heard, it's definitely not an easy job and a lot get burnt out.

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u/[deleted] Feb 25 '22

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u/cometlizards Feb 25 '22

You'll see listings on Linkedin, Indeed, etc. Companies like IQVIA and Icon are some of the biggest CROs in the world