On behalf of a renowned client in the life science sector, we are seeking freelance support in clinical data management. The main task is to take responsibility for coordinating all data management activities in clinical trials.
Typical responsibilities in this role:**
Creation and review of the Data Management Plan (DMP) and the Data Validation Plan (DVP).
Design and implementation of electronic case report forms (eCRFs) in EDC systems (Electronic Data Capture).
Coordination of data collection, validation, and cleaning throughout the study cycle.
Development and execution of query processes to resolve data inconsistencies with investigative sites.
Medical coding of adverse events (AEs) and medications (e.g., using MedDRA, WHODrug).
Conducting SAE reconciliation (alignment of serious adverse events).
Preparation and execution of the database lock after data collection is complete.
Creation of status reports and communication with the study team (project management, monitoring, biostatistics).
Relevant technologies, tools, or methods:**
EDC systems: Medidata Rave, Oracle Clinical, Viedoc, Zelta, OpenClinica.
Programming languages/analysis tools: SAS, R, Python, SQL.
Standards: CDISC (SDTM, ADaM), GCP (Good Clinical Practice), 21 CFR Part 11.
Collaboration tools: MS Teams, Jira, Confluence.
Data visualization: Tableau, Power BI.
Typical KPIs or success metrics:**
Data quality: query rate (number of queries per 1,000 data points) < X; data entry error rate < 1%.
Time management: time from last patient last visit (LPLV) to database lock (target: 4-6 weeks).
Efficiency: average time to query resolution (target: < 10 working days for critical queries).
Compliance: 100% adherence to milestones and processes defined in the DMP.
Protocol adherence: rate of protocol deviations related to data management < 5%.
Key challenges, risks, or specifics:**
Managing increasing volumes and sources of data (e.g., wearables, ePROs).
Ensuring data integrity and security (cybersecurity, data protection/GDPR).
Complexity from mid-study changes (protocol amendments) and their impact on the database.
Maintaining consistent data quality across multiple global investigative sites.
Shortage of qualified personnel and high demands for onboarding in study-specific systems.
Concrete deliverables:**
Finalized and approved Data Management Plan (DMP).
Live and validated study database (EDC system).
Regular data cleaning reports and status updates.
Clean, quality-assured database ready for statistical analysis.
Final locked study database with a complete audit trail.
Archived project documentation after study completion.
Must-haves:**
Degree in life sciences, (bio)informatics, statistics, or a comparable qualification.
Several years of practical experience in clinical data management within the pharmaceutical industry or a CRO.
Solid knowledge of regulatory requirements (ICH-GCP, 21 CFR Part 11) and industry standards (CDISC).
Experience with at least one common EDC system (e.g., Medidata Rave, Oracle Clinical).
Nice-to-haves:**
Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM®) certification from the Society for Clinical Data Management (SCDM).
Programming skills in SAS, R, or SQL.
Experience leading data management subprojects.
Personal qualities and mindset:**
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills for collaboration in interdisciplinary study teams.
High level of independence, organizational talent, and sense of responsibility.
Ability to work precisely under time pressure and to set priorities.