Research Nurse
Last updated: 31 August 2023
Research Nurse
Clinical research is essential. It is the only evidence-based method of deciding whether a new approach to treatment or care is better than the current standard, and is essential to diagnose, treat, prevent, and cure disease. Clinical research nurses play a vital role in delivering clinical research, and ultimately improving patient care and treatment pathways.
A day in the life
Duties could include:
- supporting a patient through their treatment as part of a clinical trial
- preparing trial protocols and other trial-related documentation
- helping to develop new drugs, treatments, care pathways or regimens for patients
- dealing with data collection
- submitting study proposals for regulatory approval, and co-ordinating the initiation, management and completion of the research
- managing a team.
Your development
The first step toward becoming a research nurse is to obtain the proper education. You can start with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although many employers prefer that their research nurses have master’s degrees or even doctoral degrees in their chosen specialty. During your schooling, classes in research and statistics are a must, and are courses in your chosen area of expertise.
The Association of Clinical Research Professionals offer two different certifications for research nurses. You can choose to become a Certified Clinical Research Associate or a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator. To be eligible to take the certification examinations, you must be an experienced registered nurse with thousands of hours of clinical research experience.
For more information regarding joining our team, please submit a form through the ‘Contact us’ page or contact the Recruitment team, who are more than happy to help, on 02392 286000 ext. 6577 or email recruitment.enquiries@porthosp.nhs.uk
My story
Claudia Lameirinhas
Specialist Research Nurse
What made you become a Research Nurse? - "I have started to develop an interest in Research throughout my career but more specifically when working in Intensive Care Unit, seeing how research can be integrated into practice and how it can change practice. This role offers the opportunity to work in varied projects and develop good relationships within multidisciplinary teams."
What do you do on a day to day basis? - "On a day to day basis, I identify, screen and assess patients eligibility to take part in the various studies I currently work on, provide them information about those studies and receive their informed consent, when appropriate. I ensure study-specific investigations are undertaken."
Why did you choose PHU? - "PHU is a great place to work in research, having a reputation for award-winning research and development, working in close collaboration with external partners as well. Having provided me with many opportunities for personal and professional development, I believe the Research and Innovation Department at PHU provides a great environment to work."
What do you enjoy about being a Research Nurse? - "I truly enjoy the flexibility, autonomy and innovation that my role allows me to have. I also appreciate the time that I get to spend with patients, and quite often getting to know them well."
