Institute of Clinical Research (ICR) said Dr Shweta Agrawal, one of its Indian members, has received the highest exam result in the organisation's history. Dr Shweta Agrawal achieved an exceptionally high score in a clinical diploma exam, which demonstrates the application of her knowledge in the work environment, said a press release from ICR.

ICR has rewarded Dr Agrawal with a series of clinical research monographs, a letter of commendation (by the ICR education manager and CEO) and complimentary registered membership allowing her to use the letters RICR after her name. Dr Arun Bhatt, president, ClinInvent, presented the prizes to Dr Shweta Agrawal.

Sue Fitzpatrick, education manager, ICR, said, "In general, the standard and level of candidate performance is high but the answers Dr Agrawal gave were exceptional. Such a high standard of work could not go unrecognised by the ICR."

Taken up by the success of Dr Agrawal and other members', ICR is launching its new global GCP certification exam this month. While the certificate and diploma exams demonstrate clinical research knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge, the certification exam has been developed for more experienced members to demonstrate the application of their knowledge in global and functional situations tailored to suit their clinical environment.

The ICR exams were introduced in 2005 as a route into registered membership. The exams are split into two parts consisting of certificate, designed to test the candidate's knowledge of the principles of clinical research and diploma, which tests the application of that knowledge.

The Global GCP Certification exam comprises three sections covering ICH GCP with global and functional variations tailored to suit the candidate.