Research Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare industry, the importance of research nurses has never been more prominent.

As medical science advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, conduct, and oversee clinical research increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a research nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of clinical research nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable research nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Research Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Research Nurses play a critical role in healthcare research, conducting studies and trials, and gathering data to improve patient outcomes and care.

They work closely with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the design and development of clinical research studies and trials
• Recruiting and consenting study participants
• Performing patient assessments and collecting data for the research
• Administering treatments, medicines, and interventions as per study protocols
• Monitoring patient response to treatments and interventions and recording observations
• Ensuring that the research is conducted in accordance with ethical standards and protocols
• Interacting with patients, answering their questions, and providing them with information about the study
• Collecting and managing patient data, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining confidentiality
• Communicating research findings to healthcare team and participating in research conferences and meetings
• Working with the research team to analyze data and write research reports

 

Research Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Research Nurse to join our healthcare team.

In this role, you will coordinate and administer clinical research studies conducted by principal investigator(s) at our facility.

You will also handle patient screening, data collection, documentation, and follow-up.

Our ideal candidate has a solid clinical background, coupled with the analytical ability to manage and oversee clinical trials.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and implement clinical research studies assigned by the principal investigator(s).
• Screen potential patients for eligibility criteria of the study.
• Collect and document study data pertinent to the research.
• Ensure the smooth and efficient day-to-day operation of research and data collection activities.
• Follow established protocols to ensure the integrity and quality of the clinical research study.
• Handle patient and study related queries.
• Collaborate with various internal departments and other clinical staff members.
• Assist with the preparation and delivery of internal and external audits/inspections of trials.
• Comply with all regulatory and institutional guidelines.

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) license required.
• Previous experience in clinical trials or research is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and research theory.
• BSc or other diploma from a nursing program.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Nurse
• Work Environment: Hospital/Clinic. This job may require occasional weekend and evening work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Research Manager or Principal Investigator.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $66,000 minimum to $88,000 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 Nurse Do?

Research Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare industry, primarily involved in medical and clinical research.

They work in many settings including hospitals, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and government health agencies.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that clinical trials run smoothly.

They coordinate and carry out research projects, develop and implement research protocols, recruit and screen study participants, and document results.

Research Nurses also monitor patients who are participating in clinical trials, observe their reactions to treatment, and document any side effects.

This vital data collection is used to determine the effectiveness and safety of new medical treatments and drugs.

They must also ensure that all clinical trials are conducted in accordance with ethical standards, and that the rights and wellbeing of the patients are protected.

Furthermore, Research Nurses often provide education to patients and their families about the clinical trial, including potential benefits and risks.

They must maintain open communication with patients, responding to their questions or concerns about the trial.

In addition to patient care, they may also work closely with other healthcare professionals, scientists, and researchers to analyze findings and report results.

Their expertise contributes to the development of new healthcare practices and improvement in patient care standards.

 

Research Nurse Qualifications and Skills

A competent research nurse should possess skills and qualifications that meet the job requirements, such as:

• Strong clinical skills to provide direct patient care and carry out medical procedures required for the research study.
• Excellent research abilities to effectively gather and analyze data, including clinical data, patient reports, and lab results.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, building trust and facilitating communication.
• Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and reliability of research findings and to meticulously adhere to research protocols.
• Communication skills to clearly convey research procedures and goals to patients, obtain informed consent, and report research findings to the research team and stakeholders.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple patients, studies, and data sets, and to keep accurate and complete records.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues or complications that arise during research processes or patient care.
• Knowledge of ethical guidelines and regulations related to clinical research to ensure all studies are conducted in a safe and ethical manner.

 

Research Nurse Experience Requirements

Research nurses generally must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and have passed the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse.

Entry-level research nurses typically have 1 to 2 years of clinical experience, which may be gained through internships, clinical rotations, or full-time nursing roles.

In addition to general nursing experience, research nurses often have experience in a specialized field such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatrics.

This specialized experience is usually gained in a clinical or hospital setting.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience may have developed strong skills in research methodologies, data collection, and analysis.

These nurses may be well-versed in conducting clinical trials, managing patient care, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals and researchers.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have a strong background in research and may have held leadership roles, such as leading research projects or managing teams.

These experienced research nurses are well-prepared for roles that require extensive research expertise, clinical management, and leadership skills.

For advanced roles, research nurses may be required to have a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Nursing or a related field, as well as additional certifications such as the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) certification.

 

Research Nurse Education and Training Requirements

Research Nurses typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, and it is often preferred that they also have a Master’s degree in Nursing or a related field.

In addition to their degree, research nurses must be registered nurses (RNs) in their state of practice.

This involves passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and fulfilling any additional state requirements.

Clinical experience is often required, with a preference for those who have experience in a research setting.

Research Nurses should also have a strong knowledge of research methodology and ethics, and may benefit from additional training in fields such as biostatistics or epidemiology.

To further their career, research nurses can consider obtaining a certification from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals or similar organizations.

These credentials can demonstrate a commitment to the field and a specialized knowledge of clinical research.

Continuing education is crucial as research nurses need to stay updated on the latest research methods, healthcare regulations, and medical advancements.

Therefore, participation in workshops, seminars, or courses on a regular basis is highly recommended.

 

Research Nurse Salary Expectations

A Research Nurse earns an average salary of $81,500 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary depending on the years of experience, level of education, the nature of the research project and the geographical location.

 

Research Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Research Nurse need?

Research Nurses should possess excellent clinical skills and a strong scientific acumen.

They should be able to manage multiple projects and work well in a team.

They also need good data collection and analysis skills, as well as the ability to understand complex research methodologies.

Additionally, strong communication skills are required to effectively convey research findings and interact with patients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.

 

Do Research Nurses need a specific degree?

Yes, a Research Nurse typically needs a Bachelor’s degree in nursing and must be a Registered Nurse (RN).

Many employers prefer candidates with a Master’s degree in nursing or a related field.

They may also require a certification in clinical research, which can be obtained through various professional organizations.

 

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

A Research Nurse’s resume should include their educational background, including any advanced degrees and certifications they hold.

It should also detail their experience in a clinical or research setting, including any specific studies they’ve worked on and their role in those studies.

Evidence of strong analytical skills, such as experience with statistical analysis or data interpretation, should also be present.

 

What qualities make a good Research Nurse?

A good Research Nurse has an inquisitive mind and a strong interest in scientific discovery.

They are organized and detail-oriented, ensuring that research data is accurately collected and analyzed.

They also have strong ethical standards, as they often work with sensitive patient information and must adhere to strict ethical guidelines.

Furthermore, they have excellent communication skills, allowing them to effectively share research findings and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

 

What are the daily duties of a Research Nurse?

A Research Nurse’s daily duties may vary depending on the specific research project they are working on.

Generally, they collect and analyze data, coordinate and conduct clinical trials, and ensure all research activities are compliant with ethical guidelines.

They may also be responsible for recruiting and screening study participants, administering treatments or interventions, monitoring participants’ health, and reporting any adverse events.

Additionally, they often collaborate with other healthcare professionals and researchers to discuss findings and plan future research activities.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we unfolded the mystery of what it truly means to be a research nurse.

And guess what?

It’s not just about conducting medical research.

It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one study at a time.

With our handy research nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every research study is a piece of a larger healthcare puzzle.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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