Green Life Science
Principal Investigator (PI) & Sub-Investigator Careers
Explore Principal Investigator (PI) and Sub-Investigator (Sub-I) careers in clinical research. Discover responsibilities, career opportunities and current life sciences jobs across the UK, Europe and the US.
Advancing Clinical Research Through Exceptional Investigators
Principal Investigators (PIs) and Sub-Investigators (Sub-Is) play a critical role in the success of clinical trials.
From ensuring participant safety to overseeing study conduct and maintaining regulatory compliance, investigators are central to delivering high-quality research that advances new medicines and medical technologies.
At Green Life Science Recruitment, we specialise in connecting experienced investigators with clinical research sites, healthcare organisations, sponsors and CROs across the UK, Europe and the United States.
Whether you’re an experienced Principal Investigator, an established Sub-Investigator or a physician looking to transition into clinical research, we’re here to support your next career move.
PI
What is a Principal Investigator (PI)?
A Principal Investigator is the lead clinician responsible for the overall conduct of a clinical trial at a research site.
They oversee every aspect of study delivery, ensuring clinical trials are performed safely, ethically and in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), study protocols and regulatory requirements.
Typical responsibilities include:
– Leading clinical trial delivery
– Ensuring patient safety
– Supervising research teams
– Overseeing regulatory compliance
– Reviewing study data
– Managing sponsor relationships
– Supporting participant recruitment
– Maintaining protocol compliance
Principal Investigators are often physicians with specialist expertise who combine patient care with research leadership.
CRO
What is a Sub-Investigator (Sub-I)?
A Sub-Investigator is a qualified clinician or healthcare professional who supports the Principal Investigator throughout the clinical trial.
Working under the oversight of the PI, Sub-Investigators undertake delegated study responsibilities while contributing to high-quality patient care and successful trial delivery.
Responsibilities may include:
CRO
Principal Investigator vs Sub-Investigator
We’re looking for scientists who combine technical expertise with curiosity, communication skills and a genuine interest in working with people.
Principal Investigator
PI…
– Leads the clinical trial
– Holds overall responsibility
– Primary contact with sponsors
– Oversees regulatory compliance
– Leads research team
Sub-Investigator
SUB-I…
– Supports study delivery
– Performs delegated duties
– Supports participant management
– Assists with protocol implementation
– Works alongside the PI
PI
Opportunities We Recruit For
Green Life Science Recruitment supports organisations hiring:
– Principal Investigators
– Sub-Investigators
– Clinical Research Coordinators
– Clinical Operations Professionals
– Data Management Specialists
– Study Coordinators
– Clinical Site Staff
Across:
– Site Networks
– Independent Research Sites
– Hospitals
– CROs
– Sponsors
– Healthcare Organisations
Thinking About Moving Into Clinical Research?
Many physicians are now exploring careers as Principal Investigators or Sub-Investigators.
Clinical research offers an opportunity to continue improving patient outcomes while contributing to the development of future treatments.
If you’re new to research, our consultants can help you understand:
01
Entry pathways
02
Required experience
03
Available opportunities
04
Career progression
05
Current market demand
Why Work With Green Life Science Recruitment?
Daniel Bishop specialises in recruiting clinical research professionals across Europe, the United States and APAC.
With more than four years’ experience supporting the clinical research sector, Daniel has completed over 88 successful placements, building long-term partnerships with clinical research sites and operational teams.
His specialist recruitment experience includes:
– Principal Investigators
– Sub-Investigators
– Clinical Research Coordinators (CRCs)
– Clinical Operations Professionals
– Data Management Specialists
– Study Staff
Whether you’re seeking a permanent position or a contract opportunity, Daniel understands the unique requirements of investigator recruitment and the evolving clinical research landscape.
Meet Your Specialist Recruiter
Daniel partners with clinical research sites, healthcare organisations and operational teams to recruit Principal Investigators, Sub-Investigators, Clinical Research Coordinators and wider clinical research professionals.
Having completed more than 88 placements across Europe, North America and APAC, Daniel supports both candidates and employers throughout the recruitment process, helping organisations build high-performing research teams and professionals take the next step in their careers.
Clinical Research Recruitment Specialist
Daniel@greenlsr.com
Frequently Asked Hiring Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our services.
What does a Principal Investigator do?
A Principal Investigator leads a clinical trial at a research site, overseeing patient safety, regulatory compliance, study delivery and the research team.
What is a Sub-Investigator?
A Sub-Investigator is a qualified clinician who supports the Principal Investigator by carrying out delegated clinical trial responsibilities and patient assessments.
Can a physician become a Principal Investigator?
Yes. Many physicians transition into clinical research and become Principal Investigators after gaining the appropriate research experience and training.
What is the difference between a PI and a Sub-Investigator?
The Principal Investigator has overall responsibility for the study at their site, while a Sub-Investigator supports the PI by performing delegated medical and research activities.
Do you recruit internationally?
Yes. Green Life Science Recruitment supports organisations and candidates across the UK, Europe, the United States and selected APAC markets.
Ready for Your Next Clinical Research Opportunity?
Whether you’re an experienced Principal Investigator, an aspiring Sub-Investigator or a physician exploring clinical research for the first time, we’d be delighted to help.
Submit your CV and speak with one of our specialist consultants about opportunities that match your scientific expertise and career ambitions.
Access Our Expertise
Connect with us to help you source and engage the talent you need or to let us find your path in the dynamic field of drug development and advance your career.