A Success Story in Clinical Research

Michael E.
Director of Clinical Operations
Pharmaceutical company

From research associate to director in six years

The first job in clinical research for Michael E. came at a small start-up pharmaceutical company, and he took a 30-percent pay cut to get it.

Before going into the clinical research field, Michael was working in the department of psychology first at the University of California, San Francisco, and then at Stanford. "I worked on clinical trials and liked them,” he says. But he adds, "I thought the pharmaceutical industry would provide me with more opportunities.”

And he was right. "While taking the UCSC Clinical Trials Design and Management classes, Patty Kasper referred me to my first job,” recalls Michael. "I was able to utilize my full potential, and in six years, I became the director of clinical operations,” reports Michael.

His rapid career advancement has entailed hard work. "It takes hard work to learn the science, the medicine, and all the rules and regulations,” says Michael. But the reward is well worth the effort. "When you accomplish something, it's fulfilling. You can enjoy knowing that when a drug launches, it will save lives.”

Michael's advice to those aspiring to a career in clinical research:

"Take your time to find the right opportunity for yourself. Learn the industry and find the best fit. And go out networking.”
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