CCDS: Certified Clinical Data Scientist
Today, Ward Lemaire, SCDM Chair 2026, announced the launch of the Certified Clinical Data Scientist (CCDS) certification program at the SCDM Annual Conference in Raleigh. CCDS represents the next evolution in SCDM’s certification portfolio, building on the foundations established by CCDA and CCDM®.
Clinical research is becoming increasingly connected, data-driven and technology-enabled. Through Vision 2030, the CDM Competency Framework, professional development programs and certifications, SCDM is helping define the capabilities needed as the profession continues to evolve.
CCDS is the latest step in that professional journey, recognizing the advanced capabilities many clinical data professionals are developing as their roles expand beyond traditional data management into areas such as analytics, technology, cross-functional collaboration and decision-making.
The profession has evolved. Roles have evolved with it.
As clinical research becomes more connected and data-driven, many professionals are taking on responsibilities beyond traditional data management.
The competencies required for this evolving role needed to be defined and acknowledged.
Yet until now, there has been no certification specifically designed to recognize professionals applying these new advanced skills in practice.
That evolution led to the creation of CCDS
The Certified Clinical Data Scientist (CCDS) certification was designed to recognize experienced professionals whose work extends across clinical research, analytics, technology, and strategic decision-making.
Built around the CDM Competency Framework, it recognizes the advanced capabilities associated with the role of the Clinical Data Scientist.
Could CCDS be part of your professional journey?
You may already be developing or applying some of the capabilities associated with a Clinical Data Scientist if you:
- Apply analytical thinking to solve complex clinical data challenges
- Work across multiple data sources, systems, or technologies
- Explore opportunities to improve processes through automation or emerging technologies
- Support decisions beyond day-to-day study data management
- Collaborate across clinical, operational, technology, and business functions
What do the first CCDS professionals say?
“If you are passionate about clinical data and committed to continuous learning, CCDS is well worth pursuing. It not only recognizes our expertise but also helps to develop the broader mindset needed to thrive in the future of clinical research, where data quality, analytics, technology, and patient outcomes are more interconnected than ever.“
Sreedevi Anandam, CCDM®, CCDS
Sr Mgr Program Data Delivery
Amgen India
“Being certified brings a bit of extra panache. However, how you apply what you learned is what matters most, and that we are the creators of our future within our profession. Evolving in a role from junior or senior, doing the CCDS exam will forever change your perspective and broaden your horizons.“
Annari Trollip, CCDS
Principal Clinical System Lead
ICON
Considering getting CCDS certified?
SCDM provides essential resources to help professionals with their exam preparation and as an active member you can go beyond the traditional way of learning with elev8 – our learning platform with personalized certification pathways that help you build the needed capabilities in a structured and interactive way.
Signing up for elev8 unlocks 1-year of free SCDM membership, and combined they come with several perks:
- Discounted CCDS exam fees
- 20% discount for SCDM Live events
- Interactive learning pathways aligned to the CDM Competency Framework
- Ongoing professional development opportunities through SCDM Knowledge and the global SCDM community
