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 who work/volunteer at a community-based organization; UCSF employees; Fresno State graduating seniors, recent grads, or current master’s students; East Bay State graduating seniors, recent grads, or current master’s students; San Francisco City College students; and UCSF job fair attendees.
• Participate in theoretical and practical modules via Zoom from 7/28-8/08.
• Complete the shadowing experience (20 hours) by December 2025.
• Interest in research to address and eliminate health disparities.

Applicants for the program should complete an online application, submit a resume, list two to three references, and answer five questions. 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 scholars receive a $2,500 stipend.