The Role of CRA and CTN Committee Liaisons in NRG Oncology

07/15/2025

Written by Mark Fischer BS, CCRP, Quality Assurance Monitor; University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, New Mexico MU-NCORP; NRG Quality Control and Communications Committee

Key Responsibilities of CRA and CTN Committee Liaisons

1. Serve as a Point of Contact:
   The liaison acts as the primary communication conduit for CRAs/CTNs within their respective assigned committees. They provide CRAs/CTNs with access to vital information, updates, and resources related to current and future clinical trials.
2. Represent CRA Interests:
   Liaisons advocate for CRAs/CTNs during protocol development and implementation phases, ensuring that their insights and practical concerns are considered. This representation helps tailor protocols to be more pragmatic and aligned with on-the-ground realities faced by research staff.
3. Provide Feedback on Proposals and Protocols:
   From a CRA/CTN perspective, the liaison evaluates protocols for clarity, feasibility, and potential challenges. This feedback helps refine protocols before they move forward, which minimizes obstacles during trial execution.
4. Facilitating Communication Between PSC and other NRG Committees:
   Active dialogue between the PSC and other committees, allows the liaison to promote transparency and collaboration. This two-way communication is vital to align strategic objectives and operational capabilities.
5. Identify Educational Opportunities:
   The liaison identifies and promotes educational programs and resources tailored to CRAs’/CTNs’ needs related to disease site, scientific, operations, and oversight committees. This focus on continuous learning enhances the competency and confidence of research staff.
6. Provide Mentorship:
   As a mentor the liaison fosters professional growth, encourages best practices, and supports career development within the clinical research community.

Benefits of the CRA and CTN Committee Liaison Role

1. Enhanced Communication and Collaboration:
   Participation by PSC in other NRG committees allows the liaison to foster a more cohesive and cooperative research environment. Improved communication with this alignment leads to more efficient protocol development, smoother trial implementation and operational innovation.
2. Address CRA and CTN Needs and Concerns:
   Liaisons ensure that the practical challenges and needs of CRAs/CTNs are heard and addressed early in the protocol development process. This advocacy improves trial design and feasibility, which reduces protocol amendments and delays.
3. Increased Awareness of Research Opportunities:
   CRA and CTN liaisons raise awareness of research activities and opportunities within the disease site, scientific, operations, and oversight committees. This helps CRAs/CTNs stay informed, engaged with relevant trials, and gives them the opportunity to promote process improvement.
4. Opportunities for Mentorship and Professional Development:
   Through mentorship and identification of educational resources, liaisons support the professional growth of CRAs/CTNs, contributing to a more skilled and motivated workforce.

CRA and CTN committee liaisons play a crucial role in NRG Oncology by serving as vital communicators and advocates. Their efforts enhance protocol development, foster collaboration, support the professional advancement of CRAs/CTNs, and ultimately contribute to the success of clinical research efforts in NRG.

If you are interested in opportunities to serve as a committee liaison or have questions regarding how a liaison can benefit your committee please contact the Protocol Support Committee NRG-PSC@nrgoncology.org