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Emma McCarthy
Clinical Trials Assistant
Emma McCarthy is a Clinical Trials Assistant with a background in public health and health research. She holds a BSc in Public Health Science from University College Cork, where she focused her studies on research methodologies and evidence-based health interventions.
During her degree, Emma participated in several academic research projects, including a literature review on the impact of e-cigarettes and vaping on cardiovascular disease, and a collaboration with the National Ambulance Service investigating ambulance response duration for stroke patients before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her work has been recognised through abstract publication in the European Stroke Journal and a presentation at the Irish Paramedicine Education and Research Network. Emma is passionate about clinical research and committed to contributing to meaningful health outcomes through quality-driven research operations.
Background & Credentials
Certifications
- QQI Level 5 Nursing studies
- GCP
- Data integrity and good documentation practice
- GMP- Good manufacturing practice
- paPOR trail/: Principles and practice of open research
- Diphoterine training
- Manual Handling
- Lean Six Sigma White Belt
- Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
Expertise & Specialization
- Public Health Research
- Literature Review & Academic Research
- Participant Recruitment & Enrollment
- Clinical Data Entry & Documentation
- Nutritional Analysis Software
- Research Communication & Presentation
Education & Training
- BSc in Public Health Science, University College Cork
- QQI Level 5 Certificate in Nursing Studies, Cork College of Commerce
Years of Experience
- 1 year in clinical research
Experience
Total Years of Experience: 1 year in clinical research.
Awards & recognition: Received a Second Class Honours in the BSc in Public Health Science.
Career Journey: Emma developed a strong interest in clinical research early in her undergraduate studies. She actively contributed to multiple academic projects during college, including a study with the National Ambulance Service and a HSE-led research initiative. Following her graduation in June 2024, Emma joined Atlantia Clinical Trials where she has applied her academic background and hands-on research skills to clinical trial operations.
Collaborations: Worked with National Ambulance Service and HSE during academic studies.
Key Contributions:
- Published abstract in the European Stroke Journal
- Presented at Irish Paramedicine Education and Research Network
- Part of the Health and Social committee in Atlantia that promotes well-being, mindfulness, team bonding and overall health. This includes organizing activities that will bring the staff together while also promoting health.
Clinical Trials Experience:
- Participant recruitment, visit support, data entry, biological sample preparation, and documentation management.
- Trials worked on so far include a study looking at the effects of a probiotic on the gut and a study looking at supplements for contraception.
- Upcoming trials I will be working on include a menopausal study and a study looking at restorative sleep.
Role in the Company
As a Clinical Trials Assistant at Atlantia Clinical Trials, Emma supports the coordination of trial set-up and operations, ensuring compliance with Good Clinical Practice and internal SOPs. She plays a hands-on role in participant visits, trial data entry, and sample preparation. Her contributions help maintain quality, efficiency, and participant safety across studies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support trial set-up and development according to SOPs and GCP
- Assist in development of trial tools (source docs, CRFs, logs, etc.)
- Identify, recruit, and enroll participants
- Conduct participant visits and complete associated documentation
- Maintain logs (investigational product, screenings, visits)
- Prepare and process biological samples for storage and shipment
- Use nutritional software for dietary data analysis
- Train participants on study-related mobile apps and track usage
- Ensure data protection and accurate document archiving