Myth versus reality: Building a clinical career at IQVIA

Lucia Rodriguez's journey at IQVIA helps break down common misconceptions about how to grow a clinical career.

When people think about building a long‑term career in clinical research, they often carry assumptions about limited paths, fixed roles or having to leave a company to advance. At IQVIA, the reality looks very different.

Lucia Rodriguez, a senior clinical project manager based in Madrid, Spain, is living proof that clinical careers here are dynamic, flexible and full of opportunity. Her journey from clinical research associate (CRA) to senior clinical project manager tells a powerful story about what’s possible when passion meets support.

Myth #1: Clinical careers follow a rigid, linear path

Reality: Your career can evolve as your interests do.

Lucia always knew she wanted to work in human health. After studying Biology and earning a master’s degree in clinical trials management, she began her career as a trainee and later worked in clinical trial form support. But she didn’t want just any job; she wanted stability, room to grow and a company that shared her passion for making a difference.

That search led her to IQVIA in January 2017, when she joined as a senior CRA, working on high‑priority Phase I trials. Over time, the role helped her migrate toward critical skills, like problem‑solving, navigating complex conversations and delivering high‑quality work that met study objectives. Those experiences opened doors. In 2019, Lucia was promoted to coordinating CRA, where she supported eight international studies and expanded her leadership responsibilities.

Myth #2: You have to leave your role to explore new interests

Reality: Raising your hand can change your career trajectory.

While working as a oordinating CRA, Lucia realized she was drawn to the broader world of clinical trial management. Instead of waiting for a perfect moment, she spoke openly with her line manager about her goals and actively sought opportunities to build new skills.

“I was always interested in learning about clinical trial management and raised my hand to get involved in tasks that would give me experience and opportunities to develop new skills in that area,” said Lucia. “Having an open dialogue with my line manager to share my career goals is what helped me make the move from a CRA to clinical project manager.”

As a clinical project manager, Lucia is an integral part of the clinical trial delivery. She manages a team of CRAs and vendors, who are both involved in the study from conducting to the close out phase.

Myth #3: Project management means stepping away from patient impact

Reality: Clinical project managers play a critical role in study success.

Today, Lucia is an integral part of clinical trial delivery. As a senior clinical project manager, she leads teams of CRAs and vendors across the full study lifecycle, ensuring quality, collaboration and momentum at every phase.

“My work in clinical research gives me a feeling that I am a part of something bigger,” shared Lucia. “I know it directly contributes to IQVIA’s mission to accelerate innovation for a healthier world and that I am making a positive impact on patient health."

Myth #4: Career growth depends solely on individual effort

Reality: Support, visibility and flexibility matter.

From the start, what attracted Lucia to IQVIA was the environment: the freedom to learn, the encouragement to share ideas and the genuine support for professional development.

“For me, IQVIA helps me develop personally and professionally so I can be the best version of myself.”

Whether you’re starting as a CRA or envisioning your next step beyond it, IQVIA offers the space, stability and support to grow a career that evolves with you.

Ready to make an impact and grow? Join us.