Certification by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals By Mary Pat Higley

Introduction• A medical consultant and data analyst based in Newport

Beach, California, Mary Pat Higley is also an independent clinical research associate with more than 20 years of experience in the field. Mary Pat Higley is a member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.

Established in 1976, the nonprofit Association of Clinical Research Professionals is dedicated to promoting excellence in clinical research and acts as an industry advocate, resource, and discussion forum. The Washington, DC-based organization, which has over 13,000 members in 70 countries, is also committed to providing continuing professional development courses and certification for clinical research associates, principal investigators, and clinical research coordinators.

Certification• The Association’s certification programs set the

highest standards in the industry and identify those who are professionals and leaders in the field. To receive certification, qualified candidates must use their knowledge and practical experience to pass an exam in their specific area of certification. The exams test knowledge of the guidelines issued by the International Conference on Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use, as well as expertise in investigational product management, protocols, safety, and trial management and trial oversight proficiency.