Research Compliance Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of stringent regulations and standards, the role of Research Compliance Officers has never been more critical.

As research continues to advance, so too does the demand for experienced professionals who can navigate, maintain, and protect our research compliance landscape.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Research Compliance Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of research compliance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Research Compliance Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Research Compliance Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Research Compliance Officers are responsible for ensuring that all research activities conducted within an organization adhere to regulatory and ethical standards.

They work to foster an environment of ethical research conduct and ensure adherence to all relevant laws, regulations, and policies.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing, implementing, and overseeing policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards related to research
• Advising researchers on compliance regulations and ethical considerations
• Conducting regular audits and investigations to ensure adherence to compliance standards
• Providing training and educational programs to staff on research compliance issues
• Reviewing research proposals to ensure they meet compliance standards and ethical guidelines
• Serving as the primary contact for regulatory agencies, responding to requests and concerns, and initiating corrective action when necessary
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of current regulations, laws, and ethical guidelines related to research
• Preparing and maintaining all necessary documentation related to research compliance activities
• Identifying potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk, and developing strategies to mitigate those risks

 

Research Compliance Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly diligent and ethical Research Compliance Officer to ensure our organization adheres to legal standards and in-house policies in our research operations.

The chosen candidate will be responsible for enforcing regulations in all aspects and levels of business and for providing guidance on compliance matters.

The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of the legal and ethical guidelines pertinent to our industry and will be well versed in risk management.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an effective legal compliance program
• Create sound internal controls and monitor adherence to them
• Draft and revise company policies
• Proactively audit processes, practices and documents to identify weaknesses
• Evaluate business activities (e.g. investments) to assess compliance risk
• Collaborate with external auditors and HR when needed
• Set plans to manage a crisis or compliance violation
• Educate and train employees on regulations and industry practices
• Address employee concerns or questions on legal compliance
• Keep abreast of internal standards and business goals

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Compliance Officer or Compliance Manager
• Experience in risk management
• Knowledge of legal requirements and controls (e.g. Anti-Money Laundering, or AML)
• Familiarity with industry practices and professional standards
• Excellent communication skills
• Integrity and professional ethics
• Business acumen
• Teamwork skills
• Attention to detail
• BSc/BA in law, finance, business administration or related field
• Certified compliance professional is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Compliance Officer
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for meetings or audits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Compliance or Legal Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Research Compliance Officer Do?

Research Compliance Officers typically work in academic institutions, research organizations, or corporations that conduct a significant amount of research.

They are responsible for ensuring that the research activities carried out by the organization comply with ethical guidelines, institutional policies, and governmental regulations.

This includes laws and regulations related to human subjects research, animal welfare, conflicts of interest, research misconduct, and others.

Research Compliance Officers review research protocols, provide guidance to researchers, and conduct audits to ensure research compliance.

They also develop and implement training programs for researchers to educate them about the compliance requirements.

Research Compliance Officers often work closely with institutional review boards (IRBs), ethical committees, and other entities involved in the regulation and oversight of research.

When non-compliance issues arise, the Research Compliance Officer investigates the matter, recommends corrective actions, and ensures that the necessary changes are implemented.

Furthermore, they keep abreast of the latest regulations and best practices in research compliance, and they participate in the development and revision of institutional policies and procedures related to research.

 

Research Compliance Officer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Research Compliance Officer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance standards, procedures, and best practices, especially in regard to research settings.
• Ability to interpret and implement relevant laws, regulations, and policies in a consistent manner across the organization.
• Exceptional organization and attention to detail to manage, review and monitor the compliance of research processes and documentation.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively disseminate information regarding compliance issues and requirements to research staff, administrators, and other stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal skills to liaise with various departments and organizations, including the ability to handle difficult conversations when non-compliance is identified.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills to identify potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk, and develop corrective action plans for resolution.
• Experience with research ethics, particularly in regard to human subjects protection, animal welfare, and biosafety.
• Proficiency in using software systems and tools designed for managing and monitoring research compliance.

 

Research Compliance Officer Experience Requirements

Typically, a Research Compliance Officer role requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a field related to law or science.

However, higher education credentials such as a Master’s degree or a PhD are often desired.

Entry-level candidates may have 2 to 3 years of experience in a compliance role, often within a research or academic environment.

This experience could be gained through internships or part-time roles related to research compliance, regulatory affairs, or similar areas.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have a background in developing, implementing, and monitoring compliance programs.

They may also have experience dealing with ethical issues related to research, such as informed consent, data privacy, or animal welfare.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically seasoned professionals who have substantial knowledge about local, national, and international research compliance regulations.

They may also have experience in conducting compliance audits, training staff, and dealing with compliance violations.

Individuals with more than 7 years of experience may possess leadership skills, as they may have managed teams or overseen compliance programs at an institutional level.

These individuals are often prepared for senior-level positions or roles with increased responsibility.

 

Research Compliance Officer Education and Training Requirements

Research Compliance Officers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in fields like business administration, law, health administration, or a relevant scientific discipline.

Their role often involves ensuring that research activities comply with ethical standards and government regulations, so coursework in ethics and law can be beneficial.

In addition, they need a strong understanding of research methodologies and procedures, which can be acquired through related degree programs.

To further enhance their qualifications, many Research Compliance Officers pursue a master’s degree in compliance, law, business administration, or a related field.

They may also acquire certification from organizations such as the Health Care Compliance Association or the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics.

Such certifications showcase the individual’s expertise in compliance and dedication to staying updated on the latest regulations and guidelines.

Experience in research or a related field, such as clinical research or healthcare, may also be required, depending on the organization and the specific role of the Research Compliance Officer.

Continual professional development is essential, as regulations and ethical standards in research can change frequently.

Therefore, Research Compliance Officers often participate in ongoing training and education throughout their careers.

 

Research Compliance Officer Salary Expectations

A Research Compliance Officer earns an average salary of $78,235 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary based on factors such as experience, level of education, the complexity of the project, and the geographical location.

 

Research Compliance Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Research Compliance Officer need?

Research Compliance Officers should have a detailed understanding of all research regulations and laws, be able to analyse complex information and make informed decisions.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with researchers and other stakeholders effectively.

Strong organizational and problem-solving skills are important for managing multiple projects and deadlines.

 

Do Research Compliance Officers need a specific degree?

Most employers require Research Compliance Officers to hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field like science, law or business.

A higher degree or relevant certification can give candidates an edge.

Additionally, experience in the field of research compliance or legal compliance can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Research Compliance Officer’s resume?

Look for a strong background in a related field, with significant emphasis on regulatory compliance.

Experience in research or project management can be beneficial.

Certifications in compliance or a relevant field can also be a positive sign.

Analytical skills, knowledge of legal and ethical considerations in research, and strong communication skills should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Research Compliance Officer?

A good Research Compliance Officer should be detail-oriented, as they need to thoroughly review and understand complex regulations and policies.

They should be problem solvers, able to navigate the complexities of compliance in the ever-evolving field of research.

Good interpersonal and communication skills are also essential as they will need to effectively relay compliance information to various stakeholders.

 

What are the daily duties of a Research Compliance Officer?

On a typical day, a Research Compliance Officer might review research proposals to ensure they comply with regulations, meet with researchers to discuss their projects, develop training materials on compliance issues, and stay informed about changes in laws and regulations.

They may also conduct audits of ongoing research projects to ensure continued compliance.

They are the point of contact for any questions or concerns related to research compliance.

 

Is it difficult to hire Research Compliance Officers?

Hiring Research Compliance Officers can be challenging due to the specific knowledge and experience required for the role.

It is a niche profession and often requires a blend of scientific understanding and legal expertise.

Therefore, you need to offer competitive packages and emphasize the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging research projects to attract the best candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the mystery of what it means to be a research compliance officer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about adhering to rules.

It’s about ensuring that research is carried out ethically and responsibly, one policy at a time.

With our comprehensive research compliance officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every policy, every procedure, is part of a larger objective.

Let’s foster that integrity. Together.

How to Become a Research Compliance Officer (Complete Guide)

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