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60 Msd Clinical Research Associate Jobs Hiring Near You

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an ...

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an ...

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an ...

Director, Clinical Operations

Rockville, MD · On-site

$151.40K - $236.60K/yr

... clinical research, operations, safety, and portfolio planning. The Director oversees vendor ... Proficiency in MSD Office Suite; MS Project experience. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the ...

Senior Research Assistant

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$45.50K - $66K/yr

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Associate's degree in scientific field or equivalent relevant ... BENEFITS SUMMARY At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well ...

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MSD Jobs Information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Research Associate, you need a solid background in life sciences, attention to detail, and experience with clinical trial protocols, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, and sometimes certifications like ACRP or SOCRA is typically required. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help build effective relationships with research sites and ensure compliance. These skills are vital for maintaining the integrity of clinical trials, ensuring regulatory adherence, and advancing medical research efficiently.

What are some common challenges Clinical Research Associates face when monitoring clinical trial sites?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) often encounter challenges such as ensuring protocol compliance across multiple sites, managing tight project timelines, and maintaining accurate documentation. Additionally, CRAs must effectively communicate with site staff to resolve issues and ensure data integrity, all while adhering to regulatory guidelines. Balancing frequent travel, adapting to different site environments, and handling unexpected issues such as patient recruitment delays are also typical aspects of the role.

What are Clinical Research Associates?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are professionals responsible for monitoring and overseeing clinical trials to ensure they are conducted in accordance with regulatory guidelines, protocols, and ethical standards. They play a key role in ensuring the safety of trial participants and the integrity of collected data. CRAs often visit clinical trial sites to verify data accuracy, maintain study documentation, and provide training to site staff. Their work ensures that new drugs, treatments, or medical devices are tested rigorously before they reach the market.

Is it hard to get a CRA job?

Securing a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in life sciences or healthcare, along with experience in clinical trials. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and certifications like CCRP can improve job prospects, but entry may be challenging for those without related experience or training.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Associate vs Clinical Trial Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssociateClinical Trial Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research certificationsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research or healthcare certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitors clinical sites, reviews data, ensures complianceCoordinates trial activities, manages schedules, and communicates with sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsHospitals, research institutions, CROs

Both roles are essential in clinical trials, with CRAs focusing on site monitoring and compliance, while Clinical Trial Coordinators handle day-to-day trial management. They often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities within the clinical research process.

What other companies are hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs?
What are the most popular categories at Msd?
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings at Msd in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Research Associate

Research Associate

MSD

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$59.10K - $87.90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for executing experiments and analyzing the resulting data in support of reagent and assay development projects with close supervision. This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development objectives focused on leading-edge biomarker measurements and technology.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Executes experiments and implements plans under close guidance utilizing established protocols.
• Assists in data analysis and the preparation of experimental reports and/or presentations.
• Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment, maintaining electronic inventory list database, physical inventory, processing/aliquotting/vialing/labeling materials, and preparing and maintaining reagent inventories.
• May be selected to monitor and report on the infrastructure of a particular lab or functional area.
• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in life sciences, or related area is required.
o Master's degree a plus.
• Hands-on laboratory experience is highly desired, industry experience is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Strong knowledge of scientific fundamentals with an analytical background.
• Knowledge of immunoassay technology is a plus.
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning of and adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions.
• Solid communication (written and verbal) skills regardless of the format (e.g., documents, public speaking situations, presentations, etc.).
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Attention to detail with demonstrated commitment to excellence and performance.
• Demonstrated propensity to be creative, collaborative, proactive, and self-motivated in the execution and completion of assigned tasks.
• Ability to execute experiments following protocols and/or SOPs.
• Basic data analysis skills. Knowledge of MS Excel, GraphPad Prism, and SharePoint is a plus.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit and stand for long periods. The individual is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to operate, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.
• Up to 75 % of the day may be spent at a lab bench.
• There are aspects of the position's duties that require a person in this role to work at heights above four (4) feet on occasion and move/lift up to 25 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
• Laboratory environment working with chemical reagents and performing some Biosafety Level 2 work.
o May involve handling of BSL-2 materials and organisms including human blood and/or blood products.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $59,100. to $87,900. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit here.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.