Curious about what a career in clinical research could look like for you but struggling to get your foot in the door? At Medpace, we have a designated career track designed to prepare associates for careers in clinical research. As an Associate Clinical Trial Manager (aCTM), new graduates and early career professionals can learn from top industry leaders as they dive into the world of clinical trials and work towards the Clinical Trial Manager (CTM) position. In this Q&A, Ishan Manandhar, Associate Clinical Trial Manager, shares his experience as he actively works through this career path and how he’ll use this foundation to transition into the CTM role.
Why did you choose the aCTM career track to continue your career in research?
After completing my PhD, I wanted to transition into an industry role where I could contribute meaningfully while continuing to grow professionally. When I learned about the aCTM career track at Medpace, I was immediately excited because it provided a unique opportunity to enter and learn about the clinical trial space without requiring prior industry experience. The program offered an ideal pathway to bridge my strong academic research background with clinical research and drug development.
You have extensive research experience in a few different disciplines. How does the aCTM track allow you to continue fostering your passion for research?
I am a biomedical scientist by training, and my PhD dissertation focused on hypertension, multi-organ physiology, and gut microbiota. Through my academic training, I developed a deep appreciation for how pre-clinical discoveries can translate into meaningful therapeutic advances for complex diseases. My strong background in hypertension research sparked my curiosity about clinical trials and how therapies are evaluated in patients. Over the past eight months as an aCTM, I have gained valuable insights into the clinical trial process and have truly enjoyed contributing to clinical trials in cardiovascular therapeutics. During my PhD, I was deeply involved in advancing preclinical discoveries and now, I am excited to contribute to the clinical side of bringing therapies closer to patients.
How is clinical research different from academic research? How is it similar?
From my personal experience, academic research is highly focused on generating new scientific knowledge and understanding disease mechanisms, whereas clinical research is more patient-centered and focused on evaluating therapies in real-world settings. Academic research is often exploratory, while clinical research follows structured protocols, regulations, and timelines.
At the same time, both share the same goal of improving human health through scientific advancement. Both fields require critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and strong scientific integrity. My academic background has provided me with a strong foundation that has helped me transition smoothly into clinical research.
The aCTM track is a unique path within our Training & Development program. How has your time as an aCTM impacted your career in clinical research?
My time as an aCTM has significantly accelerated my growth in clinical trials. The aCTM training curriculum during the first month was extremely helpful in understanding the fundamentals and critical operational side of clinical trials.
As an aCTM, I primarily fulfill the responsibilities of a Project Coordinator while also gaining exposure to Clinical Trial Manager responsibilities and workflows. The program has provided me with hands-on experience in study management, cross-functional collaboration, and the operational aspects of clinical trials. It has also strengthened my understanding of regulatory processes, communication with study teams, and the importance of maintaining quality throughout the process. The aCTM track has helped me smoothly transition into clinical research while continuing to apply my scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills.
What are you most looking forward to in stepping into the Clinical Trial Manager role?
While working with global and regional Clinical Trial Managers on various clinical trials, I have learned how much coordination, leadership, and problem-solving go into successfully running a clinical trial. I am most looking forward to taking on greater responsibilities in managing clinical trials and contributing directly to study execution and decision-making. I enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams, investigators, and sponsors, and I look forward to continuing to build those relationships while helping ensure successful trial outcomes. It is rewarding to know that the work we do can ultimately contribute to therapies that positively impact human lives.
What would you say to someone who is considering the aCTM role?
I would highly encourage individuals with strong scientific or academic backgrounds, especially PhD graduates, to consider the aCTM role if they are interested in transitioning into clinical research. I know first-hand that moving from academia into industry can feel challenging at first, but the aCTM training track provides a strong foundation and valuable real-world experience that helps bridge the gap successfully. For me, the role has been an excellent bridge between academic research and clinical research, and it has further enhanced my passion for cardiovascular clinical trials and therapeutic development.
Gain Experience from Industry Experts
Join Medpace as an aCTM and start building your clinical research expertise. Work with professionals in your field and make an impact on a global patient population.
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