According to recent studies, women in the UK are underrepresented in leadership roles, and working mothers, in particular, face challenges when it comes to career advancement. However, there are opportunities for women to achieve success while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Becoming a Certified Research Administrator (CRA) is one such option.
In fact, a report by the National Institute of Health Research found that research administration roles, including those of CRAs, are becoming increasingly important in the UK healthcare system. As a CRA, you can help ensure that research projects are conducted ethically and in compliance with regulations, positively impacting fields such as medicine, technology, and social sciences.
What is a CRA?
A CRA is a professional who works in research administration, which involves managing research projects’ financial, legal, and regulatory aspects. They ensure that research projects are conducted ethically, safely, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. CRAs may work in various settings, including universities, research institutions, hospitals, and government agencies.
How to Become a CRA
To become a CRA, you must meet certain requirements, including education, experience, and passing a certification exam. The Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) offers the Certified Research Administrator (CRA) certification. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least three years of experience in research administration and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field. You can find more information about the certification process on the RACC website.
Benefits of Becoming a CRA
One of the main benefits of becoming a CRA is the potential for higher income. According to the 2021 salary survey by the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA), the median salary for a CRA is £47,000 per year. This can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and education level.
Another benefit is the opportunity for professional growth and development. As a CRA, you’ll manage complex research projects and work with a diverse group of stakeholders. This can provide valuable experience and skills that can be applied to other areas of your career.
Additionally, becoming a CRA can be a rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about advancing research and making a difference in the world. By ensuring that research projects are conducted ethically and in compliance with regulations, you’ll contribute to important discoveries and advancements in fields such as medicine, technology, and social sciences.
In conclusion, becoming a CRA can be a great career choice for working mums in the UK who are seeking opportunities for professional growth, higher income, and the ability to make a positive impact in the world of research. If you’re interested in learning more, check out the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) website for information on certification and other resources for research administrators.
One of the great benefits of becoming a Certified Research Administrator (CRA) for working mums in the UK is the flexibility the role offers. While some CRA positions may require occasional travel or longer work hours during busy periods, many research administration jobs offer flexible schedules and the ability to work from home. This can be particularly beneficial for mums who need to balance their work with family responsibilities. Additionally, some research institutions offer family-friendly policies such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and on-site childcare.
As a CRA, you may also have the opportunity to work part-time or in a job-sharing arrangement. With the potential for higher income and the ability to positively impact the world of research, becoming a CRA can be a great career choice for working mums looking for flexibility and career advancement. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a CRA, check out the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) website for certification information and other research administrator resources.
To get started with your journey to becoming a CRA, you can explore the following resources:
- Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC): This is the official website for the RACC, which offers CRA certification. You can find information about the certification process, exam requirements, and study materials here.
- National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA): NCURA is a professional association for research administrators. Their website provides information about job opportunities, professional development, and networking events for research administrators.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a great resource for networking and job opportunities. You can join groups related to research administration, connect with other professionals in the field, and search for job openings.
