Meet Nelson: a Clinical Data Analyst II

What is it like to work as a Clinical Data Analyst?

The CDA role relies heavily on logical thinking and involves reviewing large amounts of data to identify potential issues. I've always enjoyed logical problem-solving, and my first job also involved data comparison tasks, which sparked my interest in becoming a CDA and led me to join this field.

What do you find most interesting about being a CDA?

What I find interesting about being a CDA is that the work is neither monotonous nor unchanging. The responsibilities of a CDA are quite extensive. These include thoroughly understanding the content of a study's protocol, designing the Case Report Forms (CRFs) for hospitals based on the protocol, and thinking from various perspectives to design data comparison systems, etc. In essence, from the beginning to the end of a study, CDAs play a crucial role. Therefore, whenever a study completes a phase or we receive positive feedback from a sponsor, it feels like all the efforts from the past to the present have been worthwhile, giving me a special sense of achievement.

What skills have you improved, or what experiences have you gained?

In terms of skills, I feel that my Excel proficiency has improved the most significantly. When comparing various data and reports, besides using Excel's built-in functions, being able to write appropriate formulas can greatly enhance work efficiency. Since becoming a CDA, I've started learning how to use various formulas, and there are Excel training courses that teach us how to apply these skills flexibly. Additionally, communication skills, time management, and teamwork are all abilities that can be learned and improved in the CDA role.

What kind of advice you’d give to people who’d like to become a CDA?

As mentioned earlier, "logical thinking" ability is a crucial characteristic for a CDA. While much of this skill is developed through experience and on-the-job learning, having a natural inclination for it and a willingness to accept challenges is a significant advantage.

The reason I love freediving:

I fell in love with freediving because I used to enjoy going to the beach in summer, floating on the surface while snorkeling and watching various fish. However, just looking at small fish could no longer satisfy my diving desire, so I took it a step further and learned freediving. I practiced holding my breath, equalizing pressure, and controlling my breathing. Eventually, I started to dive deeper and deeper, allowing me to keep up with various marine creatures I wanted to see.

Do you have any memorable experiences?

There are so many aspects I love about freediving, however there are also many challenges. Beginners must overcome the psychological pressure of not being able to breathe and learn how to equalize to cope with water pressure. However, once you start diving, you realize that the most difficult part is ensuring calm seas every time you go out!

Since you started this hobby, what do you think has been the most helpful to you?

In fact, this hobby has allowed me to meet many new friends, and through them, I've been exposed to various pieces of advice and different perspectives on life. I feel this has greatly benefited my personal growth! Besides making friends, I find that food always tastes more delicious after each dive. A diving trip really helps one forget about the daily pressures and worries of life.

The most attractive part of Parexel

What makes me feel most fortunate about joining Parexel is the way we interact with colleagues and supervisors. Even across different departments, everyone I've encountered has been incredibly nice.

The company also frequently organizes various festive events. Each time, the content of these events is very innovative and thoughtfully prepared. These events really help us feel the atmosphere of the holiday. I truly enjoy this aspect of our company culture.