Clinical Research Career Scope: Jobs, Placements, Salary, Top Recruiters
Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content
Clinical Research offers a promising career path in India, as the country has been experiencing significant growth in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Clinical Research career offers various job opportunities including Clinical Research Associate, Clinical Research Coordinator, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Clinical Data Manager, Pharmacovigilance Specialist, etc. The Clinical Research salary offered at entry-level positions ranges between INR 2.5 - 5 LPA, for mid-level profiles INR 5 - 10 LPA and for senior-level profiles INR 10 - 20 LPA.
After graduating from Clinical Research, candidates can opt for job positions or go for further education such as MSc in Clinical Research, Master of Clinical Research, MBA in Healthcare Management, PhD in Clinical Research, etc.
The top colleges that recruit Clinical Research graduates are Jamia Hamdard, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, etc. The top recruiters that employ Clinical Research graduates are Bioexcel, Biocon, Cipla, Max Healthcare, SRI Ganga Ram Hospital, etc.
Also Read:
State universities Vs deemed universities: Which is better?
- Top Clinical Research Careers
- Specialisation-Wise Clinical Research Salary in India
- Top Clinical Research Recruiters
- Top Clinical Research Colleges: Jobs and Salary
- How to Get a Job After Pursuing Clinical Research?
- Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Clinical Research Degree
- Clinical Research Jobs in the Government and Private Sector
- 7.1 Clinical Research Jobs in the Government Sector
- Clinical Research Jobs in the Private Sector
- Clinical Research Salary Abroad
- Clinical Research FAQs
Top Clinical Research Careers
After completing a degree or training in Clinical Research in India, there are several job profiles and career opportunities available in the field. The specific Clinical Research job roles candidates can pursue may depend on their educational background, skills, and experience.
Here are some common Clinical Research job profiles in India:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Research Associate |
CRAs are responsible for monitoring clinical trials and ensuring they adhere to protocol, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements. |
4.1 LPA |
| Clinical Research Coordinator |
CRCs are involved in the day-to-day operations of clinical trials. |
2.6 LPA |
| Clinical Trial Manager |
Oversee the planning, execution, and management of clinical trials, coordinating activities between various teams and ensuring trials adhere to regulatory standards and timelines. |
13 LPA |
| Clinical Research Physician |
Conduct clinical trials, oversee patient safety, provide medical expertise, and interpret study results, often working closely with research teams and participants. | 8 LPA |
| Biostatistician |
Analyze and interpret clinical trial data using statistical methods, collaborating with researchers to design studies and interpret results accurately. | 5.7 LPA |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist |
Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that clinical trials and related activities comply with national and international regulatory guidelines and requirements. |
7.1 LPA |
| Clinical Data Manager |
Data managers are responsible for collecting, organizing, and managing data generated during clinical trials. |
7.2 LPA |
| Pharmacovigilance Specialist |
Pharmacovigilance professionals monitor and assess the safety of drugs and medical products in the market. |
5.4 LPA |
| Clinical Research Scientist |
Design and plan clinical studies, analyze data and contribute scientific expertise to the development of new treatments or medical products. |
4.6 LPA |
| Quality Assurance Specialist |
Ensure that clinical trials follow standard operating procedures, are conducted ethically, and meet regulatory requirements by conducting audits and inspections. |
7.7 LPA |
Note: The salary data has been sourced from Ambitionbox.com.
Also Read:
Top 100 Colleges in India 2023: Ranking, Fees, Placements, Cutoffs
Specialisation-Wise Clinical Research Salary in India
India offers various specializations in the field of clinical research to cater to different interests and career goals. These specializations allow professionals to develop expertise in specific areas within clinical research.
Candidates can check the salary that they can earn after pursuing each Clinical Research specialisation in the table below:
| Specialisations |
Entry-Level CTC |
Mid-Level CTC |
Senior-Level CTC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Trial Management |
INR 3 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 20 - 40 LPA |
| Clinical Data Management |
INR 2.5 - 5 LPA |
INR 5 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 18 LPA |
| Clinical Research Coordination |
INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA |
INR 4.5 - 7 LPA |
INR 7 - 12 LPA |
| Regulatory Affairs |
INR 2.5 - 6 LPA |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 15 LPA |
| Clinical Research Monitoring |
INR 3 - 6 LPA |
INR 6- 10 LPA |
INR 10 - 15 LPA |
| Pharmacovigilance |
INR 2.5 - 5.5 LPA |
INR 5.5 - 8.5 LPA |
INR 8.5 - 15 LPA |
Also Read:
Top 100 Universities in India 2023: NIRF Ranks Parameters with Weightage
Top Clinical Research Recruiters
Clinical Research in India offers a wide range of employment opportunities in various sectors. Here are key employment areas for clinical research professionals in India:
| Key Employment Areas |
|
|---|---|
| Pharmaceutical Companies |
Contract Research Organizations |
| Hospitals and Healthcare Institutions |
Government Health Agencies |
| Biotechnology Companies |
Herbal and Ayurvedic Medicine Companies |
India has a growing Clinical Research and pharmaceutical industry, and there are several prominent recruiters and employers in this field.
Candidates can check top recruiting companies under each industry in the table below.
| Pharmaceutical Companies |
|
|---|---|
| Cipla |
Dr Reddy's Laboratories |
| Lupin Limited |
Aurobindo Pharma |
| Contract Research Organizations |
|
| Syneos Health |
IQVIA |
| Cytel |
Fortrea Development India |
| Hospitals and Healthcare Institutions |
|
| AIIMS |
Apollo Hospitals |
| Fortis Healthcare |
Narayana Health |
| Government Health Agencies |
|
| National Healthcare Innovation Portal |
Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program |
| National Child Neurology Tele-Helpline Services |
Pharmacy Council of India |
| Biotechnology Companies |
|
| Biocon |
Biological E |
| Panacea Biotec |
LifeCell International |
| Herbal and Ayurvedic Medicine Companies |
|
| Zoic Pharmaceuticals |
Dabur India Ltd. |
| Hamdard Laboratories |
Baidyanath Pharmaceuticals |
Also Read:
Career Opportunities after Pursuing PhD
Top Clinical Research Colleges: Jobs and Salary
India has several esteemed institutions offering Clinical Research programs and degrees. Here are some of the top colleges and institutions known for their Clinical Research courses and related courses:
| College Name |
Average Package (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University) |
21 LPA |
| 8.55 LPA |
|
| 8.5 LPA |
|
| 8.1 LPA |
|
| 7.05 LPA |
|
| 3.2 - 6 LPA |
|
| 4.85 - 5.2 LPA |
|
| 5.05 LPA |
|
| 2.5 - 5 LPA |
Also Read:
MBA vs MSc: Differences, Eligibility, Admission, Jobs, Salary 2023
How to Get a Job After Pursuing Clinical Research?
Getting a Clinical Research job in India requires a combination of education, skills, networking, and a strategic job search.
Here are steps to help candidates secure a Clinical Research job:
- Step 1. Education and Training
Complete a relevant degree or certification program in clinical research, such as a Master's in Clinical Research, Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Research, or similar qualifications from a reputable institution.
- Step 2. Gain Practical Experience
Seek internships or entry-level positions in clinical research, even if they are unpaid or low-paying.
- Step 3. Network
Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to connect with professionals in the field. Building a network can provide job leads and opportunities for referrals.
- Step 4. Prepare a Strong Resume
Craft a targeted resume that highlights your relevant education, skills, and experience.
Also Read:
Top 10 Universities in India 2023: Check NIRF Ranking
Top Indian Cities to Get Lucrative Jobs After Clinical Research Degree
In India, several cities offer lucrative Clinical Research job opportunities. These cities are hubs for pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, and they host numerous Clinical Research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions.
Here are some of the top Indian cities where candidates can find lucrative Clinical Research jobs:
| Major Cities |
Job Scope |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
|
6 LPA |
|
|
5 LPA |
|
|
4 LPA |
|
|
4.5 LPA |
|
|
7 LPA |
|
| Kolkata |
|
2.8 LPA |
Also Read:
Top 10 Universities in India 2023: Check NIRF Ranking
Clinical Research Jobs in the Government and Private Sector
Clinical research jobs in India can be found in both the government and private sectors. Here's an overview of Clinical Research opportunities in each sector:
Clinical Research Jobs in the Government Sector
Clinical Research jobs in the government sector in India are available in various organizations and institutions focused on healthcare, research, and regulatory affairs.
Here are some key government entities and areas where you can find Clinical Research job opportunities:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Research Scientist |
Clinical research scientists design, manage, and coordinate research studies and clinical trials. |
3.4 LPA |
| Clinical Research Coordinator |
Clinical research coordinators are responsible for organizing, managing, and overseeing the day-to-day activities of clinical trials. |
2.6 LPA |
| Clinical Data Manager |
Clinical data managers handle the collection, storage, and analysis of data generated during clinical trials. |
7.2 LPA |
| Regulatory Affairs Specialist |
These specialists are responsible for ensuring that clinical research complies with the regulations and guidelines set by regulatory bodies such as the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India. |
5.9 LPA |
| Pharmacovigilance Specialist |
Pharmacovigilance specialists monitor the safety of drugs and medical products post-marketing. |
5 LPA |
Clinical Research Jobs in the Private Sector
Clinical Research jobs in the private sector in India are abundant, with various opportunities in pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), healthcare institutions, biotechnology firms, and other private-sector organizations.
Here are some common Clinical Research job profiles and opportunities in the private sector:
| Job Profiles |
Description |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Research Associate |
CRAs are responsible for monitoring and managing clinical trials. |
5.3 LPA |
| Clinical Data Manager |
Clinical data managers oversee the collection, storage, and analysis of clinical trial data. |
7.2 LPA |
| Clinical Trial Coordinator |
Clinical trial coordinators assist in the planning, organization, and execution of clinical trials. |
4.1 LPA |
| Clinical Quality Assurance Manager |
Clinical quality assurance managers are responsible for ensuring that clinical trials and research projects adhere to ethical, scientific, and regulatory standards. |
16 LPA |
| Clinical Operations Manager |
Clinical operations managers oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of clinical research projects. |
9 LPA |
Clinical Research Salary Abroad
Clinical Research salaries abroad can vary significantly based on factors such as the country, job role, experience, qualifications, and employer.
Here's a general overview of Clinical Research salaries abroad provided in the table below:
| Country |
Salary Offered |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Note: The above salary data has been obtained from external sites
Read More:
Job Opportunities & Salary Offered After Completing BSc Degree
Top 10 BSc, MSc Colleges in India
Top Colleges of DU for BSc: Total Seats, Expected and Previous Cutoff
Top Colleges of Delhi University for Science Courses 2023
Clinical Research FAQs
Q. Is Clinical Research a good career choice?
A. Clinical Research can be an excellent career choice for individuals who have a strong interest in healthcare, science, and research.
Here are some reasons why clinical research can be a good career choice:
- Contribution to Advancing Healthcare: Clinical Research plays a crucial role in the development of new treatments, drugs, medical devices, and therapies.
- Intellectual Stimulation: Clinical Research involves problem-solving, data analysis, and critical thinking.
- Diverse Career Paths: Clinical research offers a wide range of career paths, including clinical research coordination, data management, regulatory affairs, project management, pharmacovigilance, and more.
- Job Security: The demand for clinical research professionals remains relatively stable, making it a career with good job security.
- Competitive Salaries: Clinical research professionals can earn competitive salaries, especially as they gain experience and expertise in their roles.
Q. How can I start my career in Clinical Research?
A. Starting a Clinical Research career in India involves a combination of education, skills development, networking, and gaining practical experience.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help candidates embark on a Clinical Research career in India:
- Start by obtaining a relevant degree in a field such as Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, Nursing, or Biology. This provides a strong foundation for clinical research.
- Understand the regulations and guidelines governing clinical research in India, such as those provided by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
- Seek internships or entry-level positions in clinical research.
- Participate in Clinical Research workshops, seminars, and conferences.
- Craft a targeted resume that highlights your education, skills, and any relevant experience, including internships and certifications.
- Look for job openings on job portals, company websites, and specialized clinical research job boards.
Q. What do you do as a clinical researcher?
A. Clinical researchers play a vital role in the development of new treatments, drugs, medical devices, and therapies by conducting clinical trials and research studies. Their work involves various responsibilities, depending on their specific role and the stage of the research process.
Clinical Researchers play a critical role in advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care by conducting research that leads to the development of new therapies and treatments. Their work contributes to the safety and efficacy of medical interventions and has a direct impact on public health.
Q. What is the qualification for Clinical Research?
A. The following general eligibility eligibility applies to Clinical Research courses at various levels:
| Courses |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate and certificate courses |
|
| Postgraduate courses |
|
Q. What is the salary in Clinical Research in India?
A. Salaries in Clinical Research in India can vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, job role, location, and the type of employer.
Here's a rough estimate of the Clinical Research salary range for some common job roles in India:
- Entry-Level: INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA
- Mid-Level: INR 4 - 7 LPA
- Senior-Level: INR 7 - 14 LPA
Q. What is the highest-paying role in Clinical Research?
A. The highest-paying roles in Clinical Research in India are typically those that require significant experience and expertise.
Here are some of the highest-paying Clinical Research roles in the field:
| Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|
| Senior Clinical Research Manager/Director |
12,00,000 - 20,00,000+ |
| Clinical Project Manager |
8,00,000 - 14,00,000 |
| Pharmacovigilance Manager/Director |
9,00,000 - 15,00,000+ |
| Regulatory Affairs Manager/Director |
8,00,000 - 14,00,000 |
| Clinical Research Consultant |
Variable, consultancy fees |
| Principal Investigator (Lead Investigator) |
10,00,000 - 20,00,000+ |
| Clinical Research Scientist (Principal Scientist) |
10,00,000 - 20,00,000+ |
Q. Can a clinical researcher be a doctor?
A. Yes, a medical doctor can certainly become a clinical researcher in India, and in fact, many clinical researchers in India hold medical degrees (e.g., MBBS or MD). In fact, having a medical background can be advantageous for a career in clinical research, as it provides a strong foundation in medical knowledge and patient care.
Most medical doctors in India already have the requisite educational qualifications. An MBBS degree or an MD/MS degree is a strong starting point. However, additional training or education in clinical research methods and regulations can be beneficial. There are postgraduate courses and diploma programs in clinical research available in India that can help doctors gain the necessary skills.
Q. Which is better: Clinical Research vs Pharmacovigilance?
A. Clinical Research primarily focuses on the assessment of safety and efficacy during the development and testing phases of medical interventions. Pharmacovigilance, on the other hand, is dedicated to ongoing safety monitoring and management throughout a product's lifecycle, including after it has been approved and is in widespread use.
Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two.
| Particulars |
Clinical Research |
Pharmacovigilance |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level |
Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
UG, PG, Diploma |
| Duration |
3-4 years |
2-3 years |
| Course fee |
Up to INR 5 Lakh |
INR 1,000 - INR 22 Lakh |
| Admission Criteria |
Merit-Based |
|
| Average Salary |
Up to INR 35 Lakh |
INR 4.2 LPA - INR 8 LPA |
| Top recruiters |
Bioexcel, Biocon, Cipla, Max Healthcare, SRI Ganga Ram Hospital, Fortis, Cipla, Biocon, Springer Nature, Neilsoft, Hi Care, IPatientCare, etc. |
Ranbaxy, Asian clinical trials serene, GlaxoSmithKline, Dr Reddy’s lab, Clin invent, Clintec International, Matrix laboratories Ltd., Bioserve, etc. |
| Job positions |
Clinical Research Physicians, Clinical Research Associates, Biostatisticians, etc. |
Drug Inspector, Clinical Research Associate, Drug Control Director, etc. |
Popular Exams
23 Dec ' 24 - 24 Dec ' 24 | NEET 2024 Special Stray Vacancy Round 3 Choice Fi... |
24 Dec ' 24 | NEET 2024 Special Stray Vacancy Round 3 Seat Allo... |
26 Dec ' 24 - 1 Jan ' 25 | NEET PG 2024 round-3 counselling registration |
27 Dec ' 24 - 1 Jan ' 25 | NEET PG 2024 round-3 counselling choice filling |
20 Dec ' 24 - 24 Dec ' 24 | Round-1 INI CET 2025 reporting |
3 Jan ' 25 | INI CET 2025 round-2 seat allotment result |
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Counselling Start TENTATIVE |
Jun '24 | CT SET 2024 Result TENTATIVE |
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- Clinical Research Certification ProgramICRI - Institute of Clinical Research India, Mumbai
- PG Diploma in Advance Clinical Research & PharmacovigilanceICRI - Institute of Clinical Research India, Mumbai
- M.Pharma Clinical ResearchChitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Chandigarh
- Medical Technology and EvaluationCoursera
- Antimicrobial resistance - theory and methodsCoursera
- Drug DiscoveryCoursera
- Drug DevelopmentCoursera
- Data Management for Clinical ResearchCoursera
- Design and Interpretation of Clinical TrialsCoursera
- B.Sc. in Clinical Research and Healthcare ManagementICRI - Jaipur National University, Jaipur
Popular Clinical Research Colleges in India
Popular Private Clinical Research Colleges in India
Clinical Research Applications open. Apply Now
Popular Clinical Research UG Courses
UG Courses
- B.Sc.
39 Colleges
- UG Diploma
7 Colleges
- BBA
2 Colleges
- B.Sc(Hons.)
2 Colleges
Popular Clinical Research PG Courses
PG Courses
- M.Sc.
68 Colleges
- PG Diploma
46 Colleges
- MBA/PGDM
3 Colleges
- M.Pharma
1 College
- Others PG
1 College
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
Excellent employment is offered by Clini Launch Research Institute for the Certification in Clinical Research. The school has continuously kept its student placement rate at 100%. Graduates are assigned to executive positions in clinical research institutions, pharmaceutical corporations, and health
C
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 3 weeks ago
It takes 4 to 6 weeks after the exams suppose your exam was in oct so the result will expected to be announced around late November to December.
V
Beginner-Level 3
Answered a month ago
While enrolling for Clini Launch Research Institute's PG Diploma in Clinical Research may be moderately selective, the course draws candidates with Science or medical background. Normally, one is supposed to possess a 50% average in their previous studies and should be from a background of life scie
K
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
Clini Launch Research Institute was among the top private research institutes for clinical studies in India. No rankings were specified within the search result, although this institute was famous for comprehensive training programs and high-quality placement assistance. This institute provides 100%
Contributor-Level 10
Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else
On Shiksha, get access to
- 63k Colleges
- 964 Exams
- 612k Reviews
How are placements for Certification in Clinical Research at Clini Launch Research Institute?