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Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

The Clinical Research Assistant will perform a variety of duties involved in the collection, compilation, documentation and analysis of clinical research data. The Clinical Research Assistant will ...

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Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

May assist with direct patient care, laboratory services, and maintenance of supplies duties as they relate to Clinical Research. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to ...

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Clinical Research Assistant information

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How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical research assistant?

Clinical Research Assistants are professionals who support clinical research studies by performing a range of administrative and research-related tasks. They help collect and manage data, assist with patient recruitment, prepare study materials, and ensure compliance with research protocols and regulations. Their work is crucial in advancing medical knowledge and ensuring that clinical trials run smoothly and ethically. Clinical Research Assistants often work under the supervision of principal investigators or clinical research coordinators in hospitals, universities, or pharmaceutical companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical research assistant?

To thrive as a Clinical Research Assistant, you need a bachelor’s degree in a life science or health-related field, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), electronic data capture (EDC) tools, and good clinical practice (GCP) certification are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in coordinating with research teams and participants. These skills ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the smooth execution of clinical studies.

What does a clinical research assistant do?

A clinical research assistant—or clinical research associate (CRA)—helps lead researchers during clinical trials for new drugs and medical devices. As a clinical research assistant, your responsibilities include preparing the laboratory, processing volunteers, taking biological samples or vital signs, and organizing data. You may also be required to set up and clean work areas. Your job is to assist the researchers in any way possible, helping them conduct sound, ethical, and scientifically accurate research.

What are some common challenges clinical research assistants face when coordinating multiple studies simultaneously?

Clinical Research Assistants often manage several studies at once, which can lead to challenges in balancing competing deadlines, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring compliance with complex protocols. Effective time management and organizational skills are crucial to handle overlapping tasks such as scheduling patient visits, collecting data, and preparing regulatory submissions. Collaborating closely with principal investigators, coordinators, and other team members helps distribute the workload and maintain research quality. Developing strong communication habits and utilizing digital tracking tools can further streamline workflow and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Assistant vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP are a plusRequires a bachelor's degree; certifications such as CCRP or CCRC are common
Work EnvironmentAssists in data collection, patient scheduling, and administrative tasks in clinical trial settingsManages study protocols, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance in clinical trial sites
Employer & IndustryHospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesHospitals, research centers, pharmaceutical companies

Both roles support clinical research but differ in responsibilities. Clinical Research Assistants focus on data collection and administrative tasks, while Clinical Research Coordinators oversee study management and patient interactions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Can you be a clinical research assistant with no experience?

Clinical research assistants often start with little or no experience, as entry-level positions may provide on-the-job training. Relevant skills such as attention to detail, basic knowledge of medical terminology, and familiarity with data entry or research protocols can help candidates qualify for these roles. Certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) can also improve job prospects for those new to the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Clinical Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Clinical Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Research Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,930 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Clinical Research Assistant

Prism Vision Group

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$46K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


PRISM Vision Group rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

This exempt, onsite role is located at Retina Group of Washington, Fairfax, VA location, which is part of Prism Vision Group.
Compensation Range: $46,675.20 - $96,969.60/annual (Dependent on Experience)
The Clinical Research Assistant reports to the RGW Office Manager and RGW Research Lead and will aid in the coordination and conduct of research under the supervision of a designated physician. The Clinical Research Assistant will perform a variety of duties involved in the collection, compilation, documentation and analysis of clinical research data. The Clinical Research Assistant will develop knowledge of the research studies, rationale, subjects and procedures associated with the studies as designated by the Senior/Lead Clinical Research Coordinator. This position is designed specifically to develop into a Clinical Research Coordinator and travels between multiple locations as needed.
Role and Responsibilities:
  • Assists in recruitment efforts to screen potential patients for eligibility for studies.
  • Obtains informed consent from patients and conducts study visits for clinical trials
  • Creates Case Report Forms
  • Completes assessments on study subjects as per protocol
  • Documents study assessments
  • Enters study data into EDC systems
  • Collects, processes, stores and shipslab specimens; documents lab procedures, lab results and follows up with patients and medical staff as necessary
  • Coordinates, monitors visits with CRAs for each trial to ensure accurate documentation; makes corrections to data as necessary
  • Assists during Sponsor and FDA audits
  • Responsible for submissions and reports to the IRB; maintains documentation of IRB communications and decisions
  • Documents adverse events and notifies PI, sponsor and IRB under CRC guidance
  • Assumes test article accountability
  • Possesses a sound and in-depth understanding of each protocol that has been assigned as a primary responsibility
  • Maintains compliance with Good Clinical Practice; Clinical Safety Data Management, 21 CFR, and has IATA certification
  • Travels to investigator meetings
  • Participates in weekly meetings with the research team, provides study metrics
  • Responds to requests in a timely manner, gives/receives correct information, encourages dialogue and follow-through, secures accurate signatures, maintains files in an organized and up-to-date manner

Qualifications:
Education: Associates or Bachelors Degree preferred in Science or related field. Equivalent relevant experience and/or training in lieu of education is acceptable.
Experience: 1+ years' relevant experience (e.g. research, clinical, interaction with study population, program coordination)
Knowledge/Skills/Experience:
• Excellent Excel, Word, PowerPoint and reporting skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills to deal effectively with patients, physicians, clinicians and administrators
• Excellent organizational skills and self-management skills to independently manage workflow
• Ability to prioritize
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Knowledge of medical terminology
• Knowledge of good clinical practice, FDA, OHRP, HIPAA policies
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite
• Certification through either ACRP or SoCRA highly preferred

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