Olivia Harris, Data Coordinator
As a Contract Research Organization (CRO), much more goes into clinical trials than meets the eye. Our Clinical Trial Management team keeps trials running and performs essential duties, but who manages the data that’s collected during trials? Who organizes complex systems and maintains databases? That’s where the Data Management team comes in.
In this month’s Monthly Role spotlight, we sat down with Data Coordinator Olivia Harris to talk about her role at Medpace from why she pursed the role to what it takes to be a Data Coordinator and much more.
Describe your role.
As a Data Coordinator (DC) I assist the Data Managers with our studies and occasionally support the work of other Data Coordinators. At the start of a study, I assist the Data Manager in developing and testing the database, also known as the EDC (Electronic Data Capture) system. I create guidelines for sites on how to enter data into EDC, and soon after the first subject visits, the sites start entering the data. My role involves reviewing this data routinely and systematically by performing specific data “edit checks” designed by the Data Manager. During the study, I work closely with site staff and CRAs to ensure that the data is as complete and accurate as possible. In addition to creating and sending regular metrics and reports to the study team, I am also prepared to respond to spontaneous requests. Once the final subject visit is complete, I confirm that the data is as “clean” as possible before locking the database to prevent further changes. From there, we send the data to the Biostatisticians for analysis!
What made you decide to pursue a role as a Data Coordinator?
I chose to major in Integrated Mathematics Education and Mathematics to allow for flexibility in my career. In my last semester of college, Medpace invited me to their career fair at TQL Stadium, where I spoke with a Data Coordinator and realized that the position could be a good fit for me. I opted to be a Data Coordinator rather than a math teacher because the position offered more work-life balance, coworker support, and training. I am able to incorporate my passion for teaching by working with sites, writing guidance documents, and helping to train new Data Coordinators.
What is one thing you’ve learned during your tenure that was surprising or unexpected? How do you implement this in your work now?
I initially expected the position to be cut and dry, but after being involved in several studies, I was surprised by how deeply I felt for the subjects and the challenges they face. Through the database, I gain insight into their conditions and the countless medications they have tried. Being a part of clinical research gives me hope that one day, a medication or device will be approved that will improve their quality of life, and this motivates my work.
What would you say to someone considering a path as a Data Coordinator at Medpace?
If you are a meticulous critical thinker who enjoys working with data and being part of a collaborative and supportive team, consider applying to this position!
In your own words, what are three key job responsibilities?
Assisting with the creation and maintenance of a clean database, creating and updating Data Management documents, and meeting the needs of the study team and Sponsor.
Become a Data Coordinator.
Now that you’re more familiar with how a Data Coordinator functions at Medpace, feeling ready to submit your resume? Visit our careers site for openings for our Data Coordinator role and more within our Data Management team. Apply now and find your fit at Medpace.
Medpace careers