A Survey of Clinical Research Coordinators in the Cooperative Group Setting of the American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ACRIN)

Rationale and Objectives

As one of the newest cooperative groups funded by the National Cancer Institute in 1999, the American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ACRIN) is interested in conducting successful clinical research programs and pursuing quality research. The ACRIN Research Associate (RA) committee was formed in 2000 and felt it important to better understand the demographics, duties, needs, and concerns of ACRIN RAs. Therefore, in 2008, the committee conducted a survey of ACRIN RAs regarding these issues.

Materials and Methods

The survey instrument consisted of 33 multiple choice questions covering demographics, salary, job satisfaction, work load, educational background, and training. RAs completed the survey electronically in June 2008.

Results

A total of 110 responses were received. All regions of the United States were represented. The years of experience and salary ranged widely from <1 year to 28 years and ≤$20,000 to ≥$80,000 per year. The majority of respondents held at least a bachelor's degree, with many having previous health-related clinical training; only a small percentage of respondents having had formal training in research.

Conclusion

Our survey summarizes the demographics and educational background of the research associates within ACRIN. This may help administrators understand the needs and characteristics of RAs participating in cooperative group research. In today's environment with tight regulatory control, it may become necessary to improve educational standards or require certification through one of the professional research organizations.

Key Words: Research, coordinator, cooperative group, survey