Clinical Programmer
Technical expertise and people skills go together hand in hand for Clinical Programmers. We are Roche’s computer experts who focus on building databases to store information about patients who have taken part in clinical trials into potential new products. We are also an important part of project teams; groups of fellow professionals who are motivated by delivering real benefits for patients.
Getting clinical databases right is critical; the data has to be stored securely and correctly so it can be analysed and assessed to see whether a product is effective. Roche uses Oracle Clinical and a range of bespoke add-on tools, so as Programmers we need to know about relational databases and adapt our skills to suit a specific study. We set up a computer tool called a data capture package to store patient data in line with the requirements of our study team. We also create a range of tools to check the data and clean it so it is of the highest quality and consistency.
We also work in a highly regulated and validated environment. Every database has to adhere to project and global standards - so we are well versed on procedures, regulations and guidelines.
All that programming demands a good deal of concentrated time at the computer so we are able to work independently, focus on detail and solve problems.
Working well in teams is also important because we are active members of our Study Management Teams which run trials. Programmers get involved in reviewing protocols for new studies before setting up databases and we work closely with colleagues in data management to design the validation tools needed. That draws on our good communication skills and brings the opportunity to work with different colleagues and draw on their knowledge and experience.
That combination of responsibilities makes for variety and challenge so we need good planning and organisational skills to prioritise our workload. The work is different depending on what stage the trial is at; reviewing documents during set up, managing issues and changes during the trial and then working with the study team to complete the required steps at database close. It is varied and can be challenging at times - but it is not boring!
All the while we benefit from working in an environment of trust; we are trusted by managers and the people we work with. Everyone believes in your ability but they are keen to help you when you need it. You really feel that you are treated as an individual, are respected for the knowledge and skills that you bring and are rewarded for your contribution.
If the technical challenges, teamwork, variety and trust were not enough, we also enjoy the benefits of being based at Roche’s UK Head Office building with its excellent facilities, whilst being part of a large global development organisation which presents a wealth of opportunities for career development. So if you are as passionate about programming as we are, check out the opportunities to join Roche or register in the talent pool.
Getting clinical databases right is critical; the data has to be stored securely and correctly so it can be analysed and assessed to see whether a product is effective. Roche uses Oracle Clinical and a range of bespoke add-on tools, so as Programmers we need to know about relational databases and adapt our skills to suit a specific study. We set up a computer tool called a data capture package to store patient data in line with the requirements of our study team. We also create a range of tools to check the data and clean it so it is of the highest quality and consistency.
We also work in a highly regulated and validated environment. Every database has to adhere to project and global standards - so we are well versed on procedures, regulations and guidelines.
All that programming demands a good deal of concentrated time at the computer so we are able to work independently, focus on detail and solve problems.
Working well in teams is also important because we are active members of our Study Management Teams which run trials. Programmers get involved in reviewing protocols for new studies before setting up databases and we work closely with colleagues in data management to design the validation tools needed. That draws on our good communication skills and brings the opportunity to work with different colleagues and draw on their knowledge and experience.
That combination of responsibilities makes for variety and challenge so we need good planning and organisational skills to prioritise our workload. The work is different depending on what stage the trial is at; reviewing documents during set up, managing issues and changes during the trial and then working with the study team to complete the required steps at database close. It is varied and can be challenging at times - but it is not boring!
All the while we benefit from working in an environment of trust; we are trusted by managers and the people we work with. Everyone believes in your ability but they are keen to help you when you need it. You really feel that you are treated as an individual, are respected for the knowledge and skills that you bring and are rewarded for your contribution.
If the technical challenges, teamwork, variety and trust were not enough, we also enjoy the benefits of being based at Roche’s UK Head Office building with its excellent facilities, whilst being part of a large global development organisation which presents a wealth of opportunities for career development. So if you are as passionate about programming as we are, check out the opportunities to join Roche or register in the talent pool.