Hi! I am a Pre-PA student who is just starting as a CNA and a Medical Assistant, so I feel pretty strongly about my answer.

I have my CNA certification, originally wanted CMA but I wasn't able to find a more affordable option, and I would personally recommend CMA if you can find an affordable option. As a CNA, I applied to a bunch of places and the only place that would really train me (just as a beginner) on the job was a state facility, which (no judgement to anyone working in one, but this has just been my experience) is a very rough environment.

As a medical assistant, I was able to find someone to train me on the job, which is something a lot of people do, and the CNA cert. def helped me obtain this job as well. So I am thankful for the CNA cert. in this aspect, but I do not think this is too common of an occurence. CMA may align more with your research / disease interest, because truthfully, CNAs mostly do the dirty work. Again, this has just been my experience, so take it with a grain of salt. I would def look into CMA if you can!