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Meet Lukasz, Clinical Research Associate II

Lukasz, smiling in front of a house, wearing a red sweatshirt

Every clinical trial that advances healthcare begins with dedicated professionals working behind the scenes. Meet Lukasz, a Clinical Research Associate II (CRA II) whose days alternate between office strategy and on-site problem-solving, all while keeping patients at the heart of his work.

Explore his journey below to discover what makes a career in clinical research both demanding and deeply fulfilling - and how skills developed as a CRA II extend far beyond the workplace.

What drew you to the Clinical Research industry?

I always wanted to work in a human health related industry. Ever since I started studying at university, I was fascinated by the drug development process. I find it very empowering that as humans working together as a diverse team, we can develop therapies that improve people's lives.

What does a day in the life of a CRA actually look like?

This is a tough question – each day as a CRA II is completely different, and you can never predict what the next day will bring. Generally, there are two types of days – office-based and site-based.

During office days, I focus on remote site management, team meetings, and preparing for monitoring visits. These are the days when I can enjoy a morning coffee while managing ongoing tasks and issues.

Site days are entirely different – you need to arrive ready to use your soft skills to solve pending issues and complete all required visit tasks. These days are demanding, but with good preparation, you can ensure the highest quality results while playing a vital role in clinical trials.

What skills are essential for success as a CRA?

As a CRA, strong soft skills and masterful multitasking abilities are crucial. With these foundational skills, you can easily progress in this role.

What should candidates know about this role before accepting an offer?

This position is very demanding. You need strong skills and confidence to thrive, but the results of your work can be incredibly satisfying.

Making an Impact With Heart

What aspects of your work are you most passionate about?

There are many aspects of my job that fuel my passion. What immediately comes to mind is participating directly in making patients' lives better. It's incredibly motivating to see a study you've worked on reach completion, knowing the sponsor has received quality data about a potentially life-changing treatment.

I'm also passionate about the human connections. Working as a CRA allows me to collaborate with diverse teams from across the country. You experience different approaches to medical care and, if you're fortunate, build lasting professional relationships.

How do you work With Heart™ and what does that mean to you?

Working With Heart means seeing the human behind the numbers and worksheets. I always begin communication with site staff, sponsor representatives, or Parexel teammates with a smile. I recognize that my colleagues—both at Parexel and research sites—come from various places worldwide with completely different backgrounds. Approaching interactions with warmth and a generous dose of patience is always my key approach.

Has there been a project that felt particularly rewarding?

All projects where I've witnessed their completion feel rewarding. Being able to see a study close with high-quality data gives me the satisfaction of having contributed to something truly meaningful.

What value do you place on Parexel's patient-centered approach?

I think this is a very important approach that gives meaning to everything we do.

How has Parexel supported your professional development?

With Parexel, I've been able to significantly enhance my organizational and soft skills. I've also participated in the APEX CRA program, which allowed me to learn about my future position with guidance from skilled and helpful instructors.

What makes working at Parexel unique compared to other experiences?

At Parexel, I've had the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals from around the world while developing my organizational and interpersonal skills in ways I hadn't experienced elsewhere.

How does your Line Manager support flexibility and work-life balance?

My Line Manager understands that the CRA workday isn't a typical 9-to-5 position. She's always available when I need quick advice. She also recognizes that this job can come with stress and being fast-paced, and so she is there for me to help process challenging situations.

How do you feel empowered in your role?

I feel empowered and accountable thanks to the support of my local Polish team and my study teams.

Beyond the Job Title

What do you enjoy outside of work?

Outside of work, I love traveling - especially meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. I highly value time with my family and friends and always try to make space for them in my schedule.

I'm also a cinema enthusiast and enjoy both good (and occasionally bad) movies, especially when watched in good company.

What's something most people would be surprised to learn about you?

In my free time, I create my own stained-glass pieces at home.

How has your work as a CRA influenced your personal life?

Working as a CRA II has made me more organized and confident in my personal life.

How do you and your team maintain quality standards?

I use our annual endpoint goals as a guide for achieving good quality. Striving to reach these benchmarks each year helps ensure we deliver excellent results.

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