Clinical Research Coordinators: Learners for Equity (CIRCLE)

A clinical research coordinator (CRC) supports, facilitates, and organizes the daily activities of a clinical study. A CRC is part of a team conducting research involving human volunteers (study participants) to identify new evidence/facts towards a theory or topic in a specific field in science/health care by gathering data in a systematic approach, also known as a clinical study.

Two-week training with didactic and practical modules based on the Core Competency Framework for clinical research coordinators (CRC) such as: scientific concepts and research design; ethical and participant safety considerations; investigational products development and regulations; clinical trial operations; study and site management; data management and informatics; leadership and professionalism; communication and teamwork. These competencies are put into practice as scholars work on mock research projects in a collaborative and affirming setting. Additionally, career training is provided, including mentorship, resume-building, mock interviewing, networking, collaboration and presentation skills.  

20-hour shadowing experience over three months with a clinical research coordinator (CRC) mentor from UCSF. Potential mentors complete a survey, and responses are provided to scholars who identify 2-3 individuals they would like to meet. Scholars meet with potential mentors and choose the person they would like to shadow. During the shadowing experience, CIRCLE participants gain first-hand knowledge about being a CRC at UCSF and expand their professional network.  

• SFSU graduating seniors, recent grads, or current master’s students; people recommended by community-based organizations; and UCSF employees identified through the Anchor Institution Initiative.
• Participate in theoretical and practical modules from 8/01-8/12.
• Complete the shadowing experience (20 hours) by December 2022.
• Interest in research to address and eliminate health disparities.

Applicants for the program submit a resume, lists references, and answer five questions that examine community cultural wealth. To assess this wealth (i.e., lived experience, being bilingual/bicultural), each application is reviewed twice using an evaluation rubric to minimize bias. The selection committee then decides who will be invited to an interview and makes the final selection of CIRCLE scholars.

The program is free, and students receive a $1,500 stipend.

2020 Cohort: Gabriela L Alvarez Azanedo, Mireya Arreguin, Cesar Cardenas, Rocio Cisneros, Leeza Marie Gaitan, Jake C Gibson, Maryvi G Morales, Victoria Onyike, Komal Rana, Imani Robinson.

With thanks to 2020 mentors: Sarah Doernberg, Nina Djukic, Melissa Lopez, Divya Natesa, Kathy Nguyen, Apryl Olarte, Lily Stander, Ellen Smith, Emily Theobald, Nancy Wu.