Research Projects

University of Rochester's Clinical and Translational Science Institute

NIH/NCRR

The Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) plays a crucial, multifaceted role in managing translational research projects and is responsible for the implementation of study protocols in complex community and organizational environments. Despite the importance of the CRC role, standards for education are minimal and training is typically limited and fragmented, resulting in the absence of a comprehensive educational foundation among many CRCs. Such a foundation is required to meet the demands and expectations of a broad spectrum of research designs and settings. This shortcoming can lead to inefficiencies, delays and threats to quality in study implementation, and dissatisfaction/turnover in the CRC workforce. The purpose of this Administrative Supplement is to: 1) create and initiate a new curriculum leading to a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Research Coordination (30 credits MS-CRC) that will also allow students to exit with a Certificate after completion of basic core courses (16 credits); 2) evaluate the performance of the program using objective criteria, and 3) conduct an assessment to evaluate the feasibility of disseminating the program regionally and nationally. A broad-based advisory board composed of key stakeholders within the University of Rochester Center for Translational Science Institute (UR-CTSI) will provide guidance for curriculum development, and ensure optimal linkages with, and utilization of UR-CTSI resources, and establish linkages with the CTSA Consortium. Located in the School of Nursing, the new MS-CRC program will be developed as an added track within an existing Master of Science program (in Health Organization Management and Leadership). The MS-CRC program will admit qualified trainees who hold a BS degree or higher in a relevant field. Instructors will be drawn from faculty experts throughout the URMC. A mixed model approach will be used to evaluate outcomes, including graduate success rate for achievement of certification, perception of educational program, and employer satisfaction. Findings from the process and early impact evaluation will be used to refine the program to meet the needs of a broader audience. Through the CTSA Consortium, the feasibility of disseminating the Certificate/MS-CRC curriculum to other CTSA Centers will be explored. With this project a minimum of three new jobs will be created, a new workforce will be developed, and scientific discoveries will be accelerated.